The Boston Celtics have had quite the busy NBA offseason before the first week of July is even over. Several familiar faces have left Boston via trade and free agency throughout the last few weeks, while new names have joined the Celtics through the same methods, leaving time to tell how head coach Joe Mazzulla's new-look roster will perform this fall.
Although the Celtics likely have a good idea of what next season's lineup will look like, there's always room to add another name before the offseason is over. After all, Boston will need all the help it can get with Jayson Tatum likely missing the entire 2025-26 season with his Achilles tear.
With that in mind, the Celtics would be wise to take a chance on a young sharpshooter looking for a fresh start.
Celtics Must Roll the Dice on Antonio Reeves After Being Waived by Pelicans
There's a new free agent on the menu after Thursday. According to NBA insider Michael Scotto, the New Orleans Pelicans have waived wing Antonio Reeves following one season with the franchise. The former Kentucky product was traded to the Pelicans immediately after being drafted 47th overall by the Orlando Magic last year.
The New Orleans Pelicans have waived Antonio Reeves, league sources told @hoopshype. The 24-year-old guard averaged 6.9 points on 45.6% shooting from the field and 39.5% from 3-point range in 44 games for the Pelicans last season. In his last 10 games, he averaged 15.4 points.
— Michael Scotto (@MikeAScotto) July 3, 2025
It wouldn't be surprising if Reeves received instant attention after being waived. The Chicago, IL native was one of the few bright spots in a forgettable campaign for the Pelicans, as he averaged 6.9 points. 1.4 rebounds, 1.2 threes made, and .456/.395/.800 shooting splits in 44 games (6 starts).
Although most of his first NBA season was spent as a backup, Reeves proved he's ready for a bigger role. Not only did he score a career-high 34 points against the Cleveland Cavaliers on Nov. 20, but he also averaged 16.5 PPG while shooting 45.7% from the floor and 38.5% from deep in his last eight games, six of which came with starting opportunities.
The Celtics need an offensive boost after cutting ties with Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis (as well as losing Tatum to injury), highlighting why it's important to take a flier on Reeves. If he doesn't work out, it isn't a big loss. But if he does, Boston suddenly has a new sharpshooter who could be an integral wing contributor for years to come.
The saying goes, "One man's trash is another man's treasure." Well, Reeves has easily proven he's too good to be tossed in the junk pile, and the Celtics can use this opportunity to show the Pelicans that they made a colossal mistake. With the right coaching, it wouldn't take long for him to be a new fan favorite.
Reeves' talents are undeniable, and it likely won't be long before interested teams begin to target him. That's why the Celtics must contact the 24-year-old sharpshooter's agent before it's too late.