Celtics fans reveal why Spurs' Luke Kornet steal matters more than you'd think

The San Antonio Spurs have officially signed Luke Kornet away from the Boston Celtics, landing the big man on a four-year, $41 million deal. San Antonio gets Victor Wembanyama's new frontcourt partner, and a fantastic addition to this squad.

What may have initially felt like a minor transaction for the Spurs has quickly turned into something far more emotional. If you ask Celtics fans, many of whom voiced their appreciation for number 40 online, this one hurts more than people realize.

Don't take it from me, though. Just look at what countless Celtics fans and personalities had to say on social media shortly after the signing was announced. This one from Celtics writer Noa Dalzell:

Then, Sports Illustrated's Owen O'Connor chimed in, noting Kornet's incredible journey from G Leaguer and a guy playing on a 10-day contract to now. There's clearly been a ton of progression from the beginning of his career to now.

Yahoo Sports' Kevin O'Connor also had some words that are sure to thrill Spurs fans. He noted that Luke Kornet is likely to be the best backup Wembanyama has had in his career to this point, as well as the exciting prospect of seeing those two on the floor at the same time.

Some of FanSided's very own gave their thoughts as well. Hardwood Houdini site expert Jack Simone had this to say: "Kornet's one of the best rim protectors in the league by the numbers. Elite at defending without fouling and an impressive shot-blocker. Moves between the dunker spots extremely well. Spaces the floor perfectly in the pick-and-roll. Sets hard screens. Great locker room guy, too."

Next, The J-Notes site expert Matt John offered his analysis: "The Celtics still won over 60 games despite no Kristaps Porzingis for half a season and aging Al Horford playing part-time. That would not have been possible without Luke Kornet."

Daily Knicks senior contributor Atticus Pappalardo: "Kornet was one of the best rollers in the league and an analytics darling. Basically all of the trusted composite metrics had him at starting-level impact."

Nugg Love site expert Ben Handler: "His on/off numbers were absurd... Like, elite for all NBA players. Guy just always makes the right play and plays within himself. Knows his own limitations as well as anyone in the league. A true winning player."

Based on these reviews from those who have watched a substantial amount of Luke Kornet's games, I'd say Spurs fans are in for quite a treat next season.