There has been mention of the Celtics considering Chris "The Birdman" Anderson to fill the center spot left by PJ Brown if he retires. I really like this move if the Celtics can get him. He is an unrestricted free agent and newly returned to the NBA from a suspension for drugs that kept him out for 2 years. He played in 5 games for the New Orleans Hornets after his reinstatement last season and averaged 1.2 points, 1.8 rebounds, and .8 blocks in 6.8 minutes per game.
Anderson's swooping dunks, shot-blocking skills and rare athleticism for his size earned him the nickname "The Birdman". Before his suspension, Anderson spent 3 years in Denver and 2 years with the Hornets. He averaged 4.9 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks in 15.9 minutes per game. While the numbers don't jump off the page at you, he is very athletic and a good defender and can be that physical force the Celtics need when Perk is on the bench.
After completing a drug treatment program, Andersen spent much of the two years of his suspension in Denver and Las Vegas, where he worked out with Joe Abunassar, who is well known for his strenuous workouts with NBA players. During the summer of 2007, Andersen played eight weeks of intense pickup basketball, guarding the Kevin Garnett and Jermaine O'Neal and others who were working out there. KG already has played with and against him and so that may be a benefit. Abunassar has given Anderson a good endorsement, saying that he maintained his speed, athleticism, aggressiveness, leaping ability during his suspension. He didn't get much playing time in his return to New Orleans, but I am certain he can still play. A summer of working with Clifford Ray and then a training camp with KG would do him wonders.
Anderson is a good kid and has been known for his community work and for being a nice guy off the court. One time, a ndersen has heart off the court, too. One time, a
Nuggets employee, who worked with the players, had a child. Andersen gave the employee a $1,000 gift certificate to Gymboree. Andersen was the only player to give a gift. He coached youth basketball during his suspension as well as helping underprivileged children and helping with various community projects.
Other names mentioned have been Dikembe Mutombo and Alonzo Mourning, both of whom may or may not have anything left in the tank. Anderson would bring more energy than either of those. I think this kid is worth an offer. And on his side, what better way for him to get back into the league than to play for the World Champions? Seems like win-win to me.
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