The Boston Celtics roster is now filled after signing 21-year-old guard PJ Dozier to a two-way contract. With that said, the Celtics only added three new players in total since last season. Let’s take a look at the new players on the Boston Celtics roster.
Roll Call: A Look at the New Boston Celtics Players
P.J. Dozier
After going un-drafted in the 2017 draft, the University of South Carolina native was quickly signed by the Oklahoma City Thunder to a two-way contract for the 2017-2018 season. He played the majority of the season in the G-League, and only played 2 games in the NBA. In the G-League, Dozier averaged 13 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists and a steal.
Dozier is part of the Celtics family – in more ways than expected. Throughout his career, if possible, he would always choose to be number 35. What’s the reason for this? His cousin, Celtic legend Reggie Lewis, wore that number. Lewis was a member of the Celtics from 1987 to 1993, when he suffered a sudden heart attack on the basketball court during a practice at the age of 27.
What can you expect from Dozier? An athletic, skilled ball handler with a lot of potential. Dozier struggled with his shot throughout college, but slightly improved in his short stint with the Thunder. Being only 21 and having a lot of raw potential, it is clear why general manager Danny Ainge decided to take a chance on him.
Brad Wanamaker
At 29 years old, the 6-foot-4 guard Brad Wanamaker is a solid addition to the Celtics roster. Playing overseas in Europe since 2011, the veteran player has achieved a lot. In his 7 year career overseas, playing in four different European leagues, Wanamaker has played against a variety of talented players. Experienced players is exactly what the Celtics roster needs, with young stars like Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown looking for mentors. In his European career, Wanamaker averaged 13 points, 2 steals, 4 assists and 4 rebounds per game. What is even more impressive is his field goal percentage, sitting at 47 percent.
What can you expect from Wanamaker? A good addition to the roster’s depth. With other guards like Irving, Smart and Rozier above him on the depth chart, don’t expected Wanamaker to have too many minutes per game. Wanamaker is a reliable substitute who will be able to get the job done when his name is called.
Robert Williams III
After being selected by the Celtics at the 27th pick in the 2018 NBA Draft, Robert Williams has done nothing but bring concern to Celtics fans. After missing his introductory press conference and his flight to the summer league, his maturity has been called into question. Is he ready for the NBA? Williams has made steps to adjust, such as moving right next to the Celtics practice facility. He claims he has adjusted, but only time will tell if he is.
The 6-foot-10 big man out of Texas A&M could be the steal of the draft. In his 2 year college career, he averaged 11 points, 3 blocks, 2 assists and 9 rebounds. It should be mentioned that he had to play out of position because he was surrounded by other big men on the Aggies roster.
What can you expect from Williams? Assuming he can mature, his rebounding ability could be one of the best from this rookie class. Looking at the current Celtics roster, height is much needed. Williams could potentially contribute right away coming off the bench.
