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Celtics have obvious answer for final roster spot in former Boston College star

Reggie Jackson spent three seasons at Boston College. Could the former Eagle be the final piece for the Celtics this season, as he provides scoring and guard depth?
Former Philadelphia 76ers guard Reggie Jackson (00).
Former Philadelphia 76ers guard Reggie Jackson (00). | USA TODAY Sports via Reuters Connect

The Boston Celtics have one roster spot remaining on their 15-man roster, and the team could use another point guard to round out its rotation. While Boston expects a breakout season from Payton Pritchard in the absence of Jaylen Brown, the only other lead guard is 38-year-old Mike Conley.

With limited financial flexibility at their disposal, President of Basketball Operations Brad Stevens could look to sign a proven guard to a veteran minimum contract. One ideal candidate to fill this role would be none other than 15-year NBA veteran Reggie Jackson.

Reggie Jackson can provide some bench scoring in Boston

On the surface, signing Jackson to pair with Conley may be a head-scratching move, but when you dive deeper, the 36-year-old offers an intriguing spark-plug play style in the non-Pritchard minutes.

Jackson is known for his ability to create his own shot and "microwave" scoring ability, which suits him well for a bench role.

In the non-Jayson-Tatum minutes, the Celtics' bench unit could go stagnant at times, and having an aggressive, isolation scorer off the bench would be a big addition to head coach Joe Mazzulla's lineups.

Reggie Jackson is a playoff performer

Aside from this playing style, Jackson would also bring a playoff-tested veteran leader. Across his 15 NBA seasons, Jackson has made the playoffs eight times and averages nearly 11 points per game on 46%/39%/89% shooting splits. For Boston's young and unproven second unit, Jackson could thrive in the biggest moments as the go-to bench option.

After trading away Jaylen Brown to the Philadelphia 76ers, it is clear that the 2026-27 Celtics are Tatum's team. And at this point in the offseason, it is about finding the right pieces around the margins that complement his game. With the addition of Jackson, the Celtics would bring on an unpredictable scorer off the bench who complements fellow free agent signing Mike Conley's steady hand and poise.

By making this pairing a reality, Boston's bench backcourt would be capable of playing any style and could adapt to any scenario in a playoff series. And if Stevens wants to round out his roster, bringing in the former BC Eagle would make the perfect addition. Jackson has already won a championship with the Denver Nuggets. It's time for him to return home and bring the Larry O'Brien trophy back to Boston.

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