"The Celtics have wasted no time reaching out to free agents who fit their defensive mold, including Reggie Evans, who said yesterday he was "honored'' by their interest.

Evans could be an instant salve to the Celtics' rebounding woes. The rugged, 6-foot-9-inch forward is a solid interior defender with a mean streak.

Perennially one of the league leaders in rebounds per minute, Evans grabbed a career-best 11.5 per game last season for the Raptors. He has played just 58 games over the past two years because of injuries, including foot surgery last season, but said he is healthy.

Teams can begin signing free agents on Friday.

"I was kind of surprised when they reached out to me,'' Evans said. "It was an honor, especially with the kind of players they have on their team.''"