The defending NBA champion Boston Celtics have bolstered their roster with the addition of veteran guard Lonnie Walker IV. ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reported on Wednesday night that the Celtics have signed Walker to a one-year contract, adding depth to their already strong lineup.
Shams Charania of The Athletic provided further details on Walker’s contract, noting that it includes an Exhibit 10 clause. “An E10 allows Celtics to give a bonus to Walker if he is waived after training camp and plays for the team’s G League affiliate in Maine,” Charania explained.
Walker, a 25-year-old guard, brings experience and versatility to a Celtics team that remains largely unchanged from their 2024 NBA Championship run. The top 11 players in minutes per game from that title-winning team are all set to return for the 2024-25 season, making Walker a complementary addition to an already cohesive unit.
Drafted 18th overall by the San Antonio Spurs in 2018, Walker spent last season with the Brooklyn Nets. He averaged 9.8 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 1.5 assists over 58 games, showcasing his ability to contribute on both ends of the floor, via Yardbarker. One of Walker’s standout attributes is his shooting; he connected on 38.4 percent of his 3-point attempts last season, a skill that will be valuable to the Celtics’ offense.
While Walker isn’t expected to play a starring role, his athleticism and shooting ability make him a solid option off the bench. The Celtics have been known for their depth, and Walker’s reliable scoring will be a key asset as the team looks to defend their title.
The University of Miami product’s role may be limited, but his presence adds another layer of security for the Celtics, who are aiming to make another deep postseason run. Walker’s experience and proven ability to contribute in high-pressure situations could prove crucial in close games, especially when the team needs a spark off the bench.
As the Celtics prepare for the upcoming season, the addition of Walker underscores their commitment to maintaining the high level of play that led them to the 2024 NBA Championship. Whether in a supporting role or stepping up when needed, Walker’s signing is a move that reinforces the depth and resilience of this championship-caliber team.