Celtics Eyeing Return of Lonnie Walker IV
The Boston Celtics,currently vying for a top playoff seed,are reportedly considering a reunion with veteran guard Lonnie Walker IV,according to NBA insider Marc Stein. this comes as the team seeks to fill an open roster spot and bolster their bench.
Walker’s previous stint with the Celtics ended before the regular season began. While he impressed during training camp, a critically important luxury tax penalty prevented the team from retaining him. The Celtics ultimately waived him, prioritizing roster flexibility.
After his release, Walker briefly played in the EuroLeague for Zalgiris Kaunas. However, a buyout clause in his contract allows him to return to the NBA before February 18th, making him a potential target for several teams.
The Celtics’ interest in Walker might also involve a potential trade of Jaden Springer. Springer, a young wing player, was reportedly shopped during training camp but failed to attract any offers due to his $4 million salary. A trade involving Springer could free up a roster spot for Walker, though it might require the Celtics to include draft compensation.
Competition for Walker’s services is expected to be fierce. Besides the Celtics, the Philadelphia 76ers, Minnesota Timberwolves, Miami Heat, and Denver Nuggets are also reportedly interested. the Celtics’ bench currently lacks consistent scoring from younger players, making Walker an attractive option to provide depth and experience, especially on nights when key players are unavailable or need rest. This could help alleviate pressure on veterans like Jrue Holiday.
The Celtics’ recent performance adds urgency to their roster decisions. They’ve lost four of their last six games and are currently clinging to a narrow lead over the New York Knicks for the second seed in the Eastern Conference.
The potential return of Lonnie Walker IV presents an intriguing scenario for the Celtics. His scoring ability and experience could be a valuable asset as they push for a deep playoff run. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether this reunion will materialize.
BETTING: Check out our MA sports betting guide,where you can learn basic terminology,definitions and how to read odds for those interested in learning how to bet in massachusetts.
Celtics Consider Reunion with Lonnie Walker IV: An Expert Weighs In
Mike Johnson, Senior Editor of World-Today-News.com:
Welcome back to the world-Today-News basketball roundtable. Today, we’re diving into the intriguing rumors surrounding the Boston Celtics and veteran guard Lonnie Walker IV. Joining us is longtime NBA analyst and former player personnel executive,Chris Daniels,to shed some light on this potential reunion.
Chris, thanks for joining us.
Chris Daniels:
My pleasure, mike. Always happy to talk Celtics basketball.
Mike Johnson:
Let’s get right into it. The Celtics are reportedly considering re-signing Lonnie Walker IV, who they initially waived due to luxury tax concerns. how realistic is this reunion, and what might influence their decision?
Chris Daniels:
It’s definitely more than just a rumor, Mike. The Celtics have a clear need for reliable scoring off the bench, something Walker showed flashes of during his brief stint with them last year. Plus,with the February 18th buyout deadline looming,Walker becomes a more available option. Though, he’s drawing interest from several other contenders, so the Celtics need to act quickly and make him a compelling offer.
Mike Johnson:
You mentioned walker’s scoring ability. What specifically does he bring to the table that the Celtics currently lack?
Chris Daniels:
Walker possesses a dynamic offensive game. He’s capable of creating his own shot and can attack the basket aggressively, which is crucial when a team’s starters need a breather or are facing strong defenses. He also brings playoff experience, a valuable asset for a team aiming for a deep run.
Mike Johnson:
The article also mentioned a potential trade involving Jaden Springer. Is this a plausible scenario to free up a roster spot for walker?
Chris Daniels:
It’s possible, Mike. Springer hasn’t carved out a notable role in the rotation, and his salary might be a sticking point for some teams. Though, the Celtics might need to sweeten the deal with draft compensation to entice another team into taking on Springer’s contract.
Mike Johnson:
With the Celtics’ recent struggles and the tight Eastern Conference race, is Walker the missing piece they need to bounce back?
Chris Daniels:
He certainly could help, mike.Walker wouldn’t be a savior, but he could inject some much-needed scoring punch into the second unit. His energy and athleticism would add a different dimension to their bench lineup. Though, it’s crucial to remember the Celtics need more than just one player to truly contend for a championship.
Mike Johnson:
with several teams vying for Walker’s services, what gives the Celtics an edge in potentially bringing him back to Boston?
Chris Daniels:
Familiarity and opportunity are key factors Mike. Walker knows the system and has a good rapport with the coaching staff. Plus, Boston offers a chance to play for a contender and compete for a title, something that might be more attractive than other destinations.
Mike Johnson:
Chris, thanks for your insights.Always appreciate
your expertise. It’ll be captivating to see how this situation unfolds over the next few weeks.
Chris Daniels:
My pleasure, Mike. Always happy to talk Celtics hoops.
