Boston Celtics officially announce signing of Enes Kanter

(Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images)

Over a week after the news was first reported, the Celtics finally make it official.

On Friday evening, the Boston Celtics announced that the franchise has signed Enes Kanter (for the second time) to a short-term contract. The press release did not disclose the details of the deal, but initial reports indicate he’s signing a one-year agreement. According to Spotrac, it is estimated that Kanter will make $2.6 million for the 2021-22 season.

“Enes has a unique ability to both score and rebound. Beyond his on-court contributions, he is a great teammate. We are thrilled he chose to return to Boston,” Celtics President of Basketball Operations Brad Stevens said in the team’s press release.

HE’S BAAAACK ☘️

📝: https://t.co/aMUUSDbbej pic.twitter.com/mDZhbI7wp5

— Boston Celtics (@celtics) August 13, 2021

This will be Kanter’s second stop in Boston, as the former Kentucky Wildcat spent the 2019-20 season with the Celtics, appearing in 58 games (including seven starts) while averaging 8.1 points and 7.4 rebounds per outing on 57.2 percent shooting from the field. His role at the time in Boston was the least involved he’d been since his second NBA season all the way back in 2012-13, but Kanter has been vocal about enjoying his one year with the Celtics. He spent the 2020-21 season playing all 72 games with the Portland Trail Blazers.

The 29-year old center can still provide plenty of value as a backup big man on a playoff contender. Kanter is widely known for his offensive rebounding prowess and ability to score around the rim but is constantly criticized for his below-average defense. He’s perfect for a bench role that requires him to play bigger and outhustle the opposition.

Off the court, Kanter has become a face of positivity in the community. He’s back to hosting free basketball camps across the country this summer and is constantly advocating for human rights. Even though he was robbed of playing in front of the Rupp Arena crowd, he’s still a fan-favorite of the Big Blue Nation.