With Brandon Bass an unrestricted free agent, it’s time that the Boston Celtics move on from him. Bass has been a steady performer for the Celtics over the past four seasons and is expected to draw interest from a couple of teams during free agency. While both the team and his agent are not ruling out a return for the 10-year veteran, it seems unlikely at this point.

The Celtics appear ready to look elsewhere for help. According to Sports Illustrated’s Chris Mannix, the Celtics have their eyes on former Toronto Raptors power forward Amir Johnson. Johnson’s production during his time with the Raptors has been very similar to what Bass has done for the Celtics. The two may have similar numbers, styles and fill similar roles, but the addition of Johnson would be a slight upgrade over Bass.

Johnson won’t put up eye-popping stats — he averaged about nine points and seven rebounds per game in six seasons with the Raptors — but he plays with great energy at both ends of the floor. His hustle would win over Celtics fans quickly, and it would also mesh well with the current Celtics roster. He’s also very athletic. Johnson’s hustle, athleticism and ability to finish at the rim make him a valuable asset in Brad Stevens‘ up-tempo style.

He’s also a better rebounder and shot blocker than Bass. While Bass is a good low-post defender, opponents don’t have much difficulty getting their shot off against him. Johnson has a career blocks per game average that almost doubles that of Bass. On the glass, Bass was adequate, but Johnson is a little bit taller, longer and more athletic.

Offensively, Johnson is very efficient with a career field goal percentage of 57 percent. His ability to shoot can stretch the floor and he can knock down threes on occasion. He only had 46 attempts last year, but he connected on 41 percent of them.

Johnson has also managed to elevate his play in the postseason the past two years. Despite a first-round exit each year for the Raptors, Johnson was one of their bright spots, averaging over 11 points and six rebounds per game while shooting over 65 percent from the field. Bass, on the other hand, has left much to be desired with his performances in the Celtics’ last two playoff appearances.

The Celtics are in dire need of some frontcourt help after using three of their four draft picks on guards. Johnson would provide just that.

Derek McVay is a Boston Celtics beat writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @mcvay34, or add him to your network on Google.