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Lonnie Walker IV is the perfect dice roll for Celtics
By Adam Taylor,
8 hours ago
Lonnie Walker IV.
The Boston Celtics have signed Lonnie Walker IV to an Exhibit 10 contract. The veteran guard will team up with Joe Mazzulla's roster for training camp before the front office decides whether to give him the 15th and final roster spot.
Walker spent last season with the Brooklyn Nets, playing 58 games and averaging 9.7 points, 2.2 rebounds and 1.3 assists while shooting 42.3 percent from the field and 38.4 percent from three-point range.
Adding the veteran wing on a non-guaranteed deal is a no-risk move for Boston. Mazzulla and his coaching staff will get a closer look at Walker throughout their preseason preparations, allowing them to make a decision based on the impression he makes.
Should Walker secure a spot on Boston's roster, he would further strengthen the Celtics' offensive firepower. He is a three-level scorer who thrives on the perimeter. He would slot into a floor-spacing role, with most of his shots coming off the catch.
However, Walker's limited defense could be a problem. For all the plaudits the Celtics receive for their offense, defense remains their identity . If Walker struggles to guard his yard, he may find regular minutes challenging to come by.
That's why an Exhibit 10 deal is a valuable tool for teams. Walker must prove he can hang in Boston's rotation during training camp. He will be tested within the team's system behind closed doors, without outside pressure. If he fails to reach the necessary level, Boston can funnel him to the G League to continue developing him.
Walker was one of the best free agents left on the market. He's a proven scorer in the NBA and can operate as a microwave guy off the bench. Now, he can earn a spot on arguably the best team in the NBA. Boston has no money committed to the veteran wing right now, so if he struggles to make an impression, it can waive him without eating a cap hit.
President of basketball operations Brad Stevens has made another smart move, and now it's up to Walker to earn his place.
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