Celtics Still Have a Chance to Reunite With Former Player After Trade Deadline

As expected, the Boston Celtics had a quiet trade deadline. They shipped Jaden Springer for money-saving purposes and signed free agent Torrey Craig to that roster spot. As we enter the All-Star break and the final stretch of the season, the Celtics have one more roster spot left to fill.

Boston doesn't have to sign someone to that spot. However, teams with deep postseason aspirations usually have 15 players on guaranteed contracts to have optionality in case of emergency in the playoffs. This is especially important considering that two-way players are not eligible to play in the postseason.

The Celtics can obviously sign one of their three two-way players to a standard contract. JD Davison has been with the team for three seasons and Drew Peterson has performed well in his short stints this year. While both players would be worthy additions to the 15-man roster, the Celtics also have a chance to bring back Lonnie Walker IV.

Walker initially signed a deal with the Celtics in the offseason but was surprisingly waived despite solid preseason performances. He then joined the Euroleague side Zalgiris Kaunas. He has been playing well there, averaging 13.6 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.8 assists in 22 minutes per game.

The 26-year-old has an NBA buyout clause and can join any team before the end of the regular season. Considering his familiarity with the team and the coaching staff, Walker would be an excellent option for the Celtics' final roster spot.

Any player who is added to the team at this point in the season is unlikely to have a role in the playoffs. At the same time, having a competent veteran who can eat regular season minutes and can survive in case of emergency in the postseason is valuable. Walker certainly fits that bill for the Celtics.

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