Semi Ojeleye's minutes keep increasing, and he averages 24 MPG over the past four contests, effectively playing half of the game. Over that same span, his plus/minus ranks 27th in the NBA at +37. He is hitting his field goals, 3-pointers and free throws, while starting to become a factor on the boards.
Semi has hit 5-of-11 field goals and 4-of-9 treys in that 4-game span. He also garnered 16 rebounds and five steals. His defense never wavers from superb, but his other production is earning him a solid role in the Celtics system. It took a while, but Ojeleye hung in there and Brad Stevens never gave up on him. Hell, no - Semi was too valuable to sit for extended periods.
We can never factor out the possibility of Danny Ainge showcasing Semi for an impending trade, but I doubt that. His $1.6 million for this season doesn't come close to his value to the team, and with Danny having a club option for next season on Semi's contract (only $1.8 million), expect The Ox to stay where he is. In the end, his low salary would mean little for dollar-matching in any deal. He is on the right team.
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Semi Ojeleye is shooting a career-high 37 percent from 3. Some on/off splits since Hayward's injury:
— Brian Robb (@BrianTRobb) December 6, 2019
Celtics' D with Ojeleye on court: 97 points allowed per 100 poss (1st on team)
Celtics' D with Ojeleye off court: 106 points allowed per 100 poss. https://t.co/Wq63vJc9mo
Semi has hit 5-of-11 field goals and 4-of-9 treys in that 4-game span. He also garnered 16 rebounds and five steals. His defense never wavers from superb, but his other production is earning him a solid role in the Celtics system. It took a while, but Ojeleye hung in there and Brad Stevens never gave up on him. Hell, no - Semi was too valuable to sit for extended periods.
We can never factor out the possibility of Danny Ainge showcasing Semi for an impending trade, but I doubt that. His $1.6 million for this season doesn't come close to his value to the team, and with Danny having a club option for next season on Semi's contract (only $1.8 million), expect The Ox to stay where he is. In the end, his low salary would mean little for dollar-matching in any deal. He is on the right team.
Follow Tom at @CelticsSentinel, @CausewayStreet and Facebook
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