Celtics Emerging as 'Stealth Suitor' for Kemba Walker

Kemba Walker is one of the premier guards available in this year's NBA free agency pool, and many teams around the league seem to have taken interest.

Turns out, one team that nobody saw on the Kemba radar, but probably should have, appears to be lurking in the weeds: the soon-to-be-Kyrie-less Boston Celtics.

Of course, Irving is likely to leave the Celtics sometime soon, and his production and face value will need to be replaced to keep the C's as contenders in the East.

Walker would be able to do both of these things for the Celtics, serving as the type of gunner and leader Irving generally attempts to be, averaging over 20 points per game in his last four seasons. His scoring mentality would also fit perfectly into head coach Brad Stevens' offensive schemes that aim to reward scoring guards.

But if the Celtics want him, he will be expensive. Walker is eligible for a super-max contract with the Hornets after being named All-NBA Third Team this past season, allowing him to receive more money from Charlotte than any competitor. This will be a sticking point that could keep the Celtics from getting Walker, but the C's can certainly top the only team he's ever known in terms of competitiveness.

If you look at the facts, money could keep Kemba Walker in Charlotte, but significant cash flow, coupled with the potential to win in the East could also be his reason for departing. Not so "stealth" anymore, huh?