When the Boston Celtics brought a merciful ending to Lonnie Walker IV’s waiting game, the move was met with positive reactions. Though Walker wasn’t necessarily viewed as a game-changing addition, he could be a worthwhile contributor. The only problem is that Celtics president Brad Stevens has alluded to wanting to keep a roster spot open heading into 2024-25.
On Sunday, NBA.com’s Steve Aschburner asked Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla what he expects from the six-year veteran. The highly quotable leader kept it simple:
“He’s been around the league for a long time, he’s played in a lot of games,” Mazzulla answers. “So he’s got experience, he’s the ability to score and he can impact the game on the defensive end.”
“At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter who you are — we just want guys to come in and work hard, pay attention to the details,” he adds. “Be your best self and fill the best role you can for the team.”
Celtics’ Joe Mazzulla Digs Into What Lonnie Walker IV Offseason Addition Brings
In signing an Exhibit 10 contract, there are fewer guarantees for Walker than many players the Celtics will bring to camp.
He could be waived prior to the regular season, subsequently signing with their G League affiliate. Of course, if he’s released by Boston, he may also have the opportunity to sign with another NBA team. One such option could be the San Antonio Spurs, who drafted Walker and recently opened up a two-way spot.
Walker could also make it onto the Celtics’ roster as a two-way player. In this event, he would be limited to playing a maximum of 50 games with Boston. He’ll still be employed the reigning NBA champions though, and will have a chance to get promoted.
Last but certainly not least, the 25-year-old could make the team’s regular 15-man roster. As the Celtics only have 14 players on standard contracts, they wouldn’t necessarily have to waive or trade player to make room for him. However, Ron Harper Jr. would likely be cut after signing a non-guaranteed training camp deal with Boston in July. The 24-year-old son of five-time NBA champion Ron Harper, Harper Jr. has played just 10 games in his NBA career.
Experience Matters
When assessing Mazzulla’s comments about Walker’s experience, he may have an advantage over Harper Jr. simply virtue of having 341 games under his belt (playoffs included). Even if he was an end-of-bench option, Walker’s body of work generates confidence in his ability to be ready for those moments.
To that point, his time with the Los Angeles Lakers is particularly notable. Not only are the Lakers another title-contender, Walker was a standout during their postseason run.
In 13 games, the athletic wing averaged 6.2 points per game on .483-.382-.750 shooting splits. His best performance came during the semifinal round against the Golden State Warriors. One of L.A.’s most steady players that series, Walker averaged 10.6 points and 1.0 steal in 21.2 minutes per game. He did so while converting 54.1 percent of his field goals and 38.9 percent of his 3s.
With all due respect, why wouldn’t the Celtics choose him over Harper (Jr.)?
