As the defending champion Boston Celtics gear up for the upcoming NBA season, the team has made a strategic move by signing Lonnie Walker IV to a one-year contract. With training camp set to commence on September 25, the Celtics are bolstering their roster depth to defend their title.
Walker, a former first-round pick by the San Antonio Spurs in 2018, brings valuable experience and versatility to the Celtics lineup. Last season, while playing for the Brooklyn Nets, Walker averaged 9.7 points and 2.2 rebounds per game coming off the bench. Although he faced a setback with a hamstring strain that sidelined him for the entire month of December, he demonstrated significant prowess by shooting 38.4% from beyond the three-point line.
There is speculation that Walker's signing could potentially mark the end of Oshae Brissett’s tenure with the Celtics. As Walker is expected to play a role as the ninth or tenth man in the rotation, he provides the team with additional options and a reliable backup. The nature of his contract, an Exhibit 10 deal, provides a safety net for both Walker and the Celtics. Should he be waived during training camp, Walker would be eligible for a bonus if he joins the Celtics' G League affiliate, thereby maintaining his connection with the organization.
Looking beyond the signing, the Celtics are scheduled to embark on a trip to Abu Dhabi for preseason games against the Denver Nuggets. This international exposure offers the team a valuable opportunity to fine-tune their strategies and build team cohesion ahead of the regular season.
An important highlight of the upcoming season will be the raising of their 18th championship banner at the TD Garden. This ceremony is set to take place on opening night, where the Celtics will face off against the New York Knicks, marking the beginning of what fans hope will be another successful campaign for the storied franchise.
For Walker, this stint with the Celtics represents an opportunity to reinvigorate his career on a title-contending team. Despite having made it to the playoffs twice in his six professional seasons, Walker has never advanced beyond the conference finals. Playing in Boston offers him a chance to contribute to a championship-caliber team and potentially taste postseason success at a higher level.
As the season approaches, all eyes will be on how Walker integrates into the Celtics' system. With a solid track record and the opportunity to contribute to a team with championship aspirations, Walker’s addition underscores the Celtics’ commitment to assembling a roster capable of sustained success.