NBA 2019/20: 3 worst contracts on the Boston Celtics roster

Last summer, the Boston Celtics hoped to sign Kyrie Irving to a long term deal before pursuing a potential trade for Anthony Davis. Nevertheless, Boston's plans never materialized as Irving refused to negotiate a new deal after falling out with the franchise, while Davis eventually headed to the Los Angeles Lakers.

Nevertheless, the Celtics responded by making a number of moves in free agency, and the current roster is still home to some of the NBA's best young talent. Due to this, the Celtics don't have too many overpriced contracts on the roster, although there are a few exceptions to the rule.

So, ahead of the new season, here we assess the worst three contracts on the Boston Celtics roster.

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#3 Kemba Walker

Kemba Walker consistently put up big numbers for the Charlotte Hornets

After facing the inevitable departure of Kyrie Irving, the Boston Celtics needed to make a major move in the off-season. The franchise eventually made that move when they signed Kemba Walker to a four-year, $141 million max contract after the 29-year-old's contract negotiations with the Charlotte Hornets broke down.

Walker has been named as an All-Star in each of the past three seasons, and the 18-19 campaign was the best of his career as he averaged 25.6 points, 5.9 assists, and 4.4 rebounds per game. Undoubtedly, Walker will make an instant impact with the Celtics, although the length of the contract is a concern as the point guard will soon turn 30 and a loss of athleticism could result in a huge drop in production.

It is also worth noting that Walker only managed to guide the Hornets to the playoffs twice, and his poor performance during Team USA's defeat to France added further ammunition to the argument that Walker isn't able to lead a contending team. Ultimately, Walker will produce big numbers for the Celtics, although the length of the contract could turn out to be less than ideal.

#2 Enes Kanter

Enes Kanter impressed during his short spell with the Portland Trail Blazers

Enes Kanter entered the 2018-19 season as one of the NBA's most overpaid players and he was eventually waived after being benched for much of the season by the New York Knicks. The Turkish center subsequently signed for the Portland Trail Blazers on a minimum deal and impressed as the team reached the Western Conference Finals.

However, while Kanter's notoriously poor defense was solid during the first round against the Oklahoma City Thunder, he struggled as the postseason progressed, and he will be targeted by opposing teams next season.

Nevertheless, facing the prospect of losing Al Horford, the Celtics signed Kanter to a two-year, $10 million contract, and while not the most inflated deal, the Celtics had better options in free agency. Kanter will begin the season as a regular starter, although the Celtics may soon come to regret adding a big that will give up so much on the defensive end.

#1 Gordon Hayward

Gordon Hayward has struggled to make an impact with the Celtics

Back in the summer of 2017, the Boston Celtics fended off intense competition to complete the signing of Gordon Hayward. The then 27-year-old had enjoyed the best season of his career with the Utah Jazz, averaging career highs in points (21.9) and rebounds (5.4). However, Hayward suffered a fractured tibia and dislocated ankle in his left leg just minutes into his Celtics debut and would miss the rest of the season.

He made his return in time for the 2018-19 campaign, although the former All-Star struggled to make an impact and was eventually relegated to the bench for the first time since 2012. Hayward has worked hard during the off-season as he reportedly eyes an All-Star return - although his performances last season did little to suggest that this is a possibility.

Ultimately, the 29-year-old is owed $65 million over the next two seasons, and his contract could eventually make it difficult for the Celtics to retain both Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown.