BOSTON — The Celtics continue to add players to their nucleus of Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen.

Yesterday, Scot Pollard, a free-agent forward and center, agreed to terms, according to executive director of operations Danny Ainge.

The 6-foot-11, 265-pound Pollard got a one-year deal believed to be in the neighborhood of $1.2 million. He adds a much-needed big man to the Celtics’ frontcourt and raises the number of players under contract to 12, one shy of the league minimum. Pollard likely will be the backup to Kendrick Perkins at center.

Chosen 19th overall by the Pistons in 1997, Pollard, 32, spent most of his career with the Kings (five seasons). He had his best season with Sacramento in 2001-02, averaging a career-high 7.1 rebounds and 6.4 points. He played 80 games that year and averaged 23.5 minutes per contest.

After signing a one-year deal with Cleveland almost a year ago for about $2 million, Pollard played 24 games with the Cavaliers, averaging 1 point and 1.3 rebounds in 4.5 minutes per game. He has career averages of 4.5 points and 4.8 rebounds.

Ainge declined to comment yesterday on why the team pursued Pollard. Undoubtedly, in addition to his size, the Celtics found Pollard’s rebounding ability and intensity and energy appealing. Plus, after playing for the Cavaliers last season, he has experience with a playoff run to the NBA Finals. And it doesn’t hurt that Pollard played two years at Kansas alongside Paul Pierce.

If Pollard stays healthy and earns an opportunity to play consistently, he could be a pleasant surprise. While he may be less heralded than the other 30-something acquisitions the Celtics have made this offseason, he could be a valuable role player with his defense.

Last week, Boston signed former Nets guard Eddie House and ex-North Carolina swingman Jackie Manuel.