LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 11: Daniel Theis #27 of the Boston Celtics looks on during the NBA game between Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers at The O2 Arena on January 11, 2018 in London, England. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

Daniel Theis’ versatility off the bench is a huge luxury for the Celtics

As expected, the Boston Celtics have guaranteed Daniel Theis’ contract for next season.

The #Celtics have no intention on waiving Daniel Theis, thus making his contract guaranteed for next season, according to a source. Today was deadline to make any move. — gary washburn (@GwashburnGlobe) July 11, 2018

Although Theis isn’t considered to be well above-average in any single skill, which limits him to a bench role on the Celtics, the 26 year-old does possess a multitalented game.

In his first NBA season, the German import averaged a solid 5.3 points and 4.3 rebounds in under 15 minutes. To put his numbers into perspective, Theis averaged nearly 13 points and 11 rebounds per 36 minutes of playing time.

While shooting wasn’t exactly his calling-card coming from Europe, Theis impressed by finishing the season going 54% from the field, 75% from the line and 31% from three. While not the best shooting splits, they are good enough for opposing defenses to respect his shot.

As Theis surprised many with his shooting, his defensive versatility remained the most valuable skill that he brought to the Celtics. His block and steal stats (0.8 and 0.5 per game, respectively) may not jump out at you, but his good fundamentals and positioning are evident in his advanced stats.

Theis ranked first among full-time Celtics in defensive box plus/minus and in defensive rating. The big-man also posted a solid 1.9 defensive win shares.

While Theis will never be the most talented or skilled player on the court, what he brings to the team is extremely valuable.

His versatility off the bench is a huge luxury for the Celtics, as it allows them to field five players who are able to space the floor and defend their position, even with Al Horford sitting.

Theis is a lock to be a member of the Celtics rotation for the second season in a row, but It remains to be seen if he can win more playing time from Aron Baynes, who will also come off the bench this year.