We Now Know Why Celtics Signed Mike Conley Jr. originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here. It's been a quiet free agency for the Boston Celtics, but president Brad Stevens did make two important signings this offseason, adding center Mitchell Robinson and guard Mike Conley Jr. Robinson checks a big box for the Celtics as one of the most dominant offensive rebounders in NBA history, and he figures to be a big part of Joe Mazzulla's rotation. Conley's role wasn't as clear when news first broke of his signing, but we now know exactly what Stevens expects of the 19-year veteran. "People talk about veteran leadership and they talk about how important vets are. My argument to that would be good vets are really important," Stevens said. "Guys that really have a great understanding of where they are in their careers, how they impact winning and the appropriate amount of expectations from the individual's standpoint. "I think that's what you get with Mike, and he's still, every time he plays, has a big impact on winning. I think the balance of being able to play at a high level and not being able to play every minute of every game is an incredibly valuable thing. And it's usually reserved for guys that have a good perspective on life, and Mike certainly has that." MORE:Celtics Legend Issues 'Scary' Jaylen Brown Warning After 76ers Trade Conley, 38, is one of the few remaining NBA players from the 2007 draft class. He enters his 20th season as a one-time All-Star with one All-Defensive selection. He also owns four Sportsmanship Awards, the most all-time. Conley appeared in 54 games with the Minnesota Timberwolves last season, 15 of which he started. He averaged 4.5 points, 2.9 assists and 1.7 rebounds on 18.4 minutes per game. Conley's All-Star days are behind him, but he still provides a steady hand at the point guard position. He shot only 33.7 percent from 3 last season, but he's been a reliable floor spacer throughout his career as well. Conley signed a one-year, $3.9 million contract with the Celtics. More Celtics
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