Boston Celtics: 3 replacements for Brad Wanamaker as C’s primary backup point guard

Tremont Waters

With the 51st pick in the 2019 NBA Draft, the Boston Celtics select…. the simplest answer when it comes to replacing Brad Wanamaker in 2020-21.

Though used quite sparingly in 2019-20, Tremont Waters showed flashes of potentially being a solid player in the NBA at some point during his NBA career. The only thing currently holding us back from finding out that answer — despite the current hiatus — is an opportunity.

Hitting the hardwood in just 10 games, the rookie point guard managed to muster only 3.3 points and 1.2 assists per game in a mere 8.9 average minutes played. While these numbers are by no means eye-popping it was his lone appearance recording meaningful minutes — including deep into the fourth quarter of a close game — that stands out the most.

In a November 25th bout against the Sacramento Kings, Waters recorded a solid log-line of seven points, three assists, two boards, an incredibly impressive two blocks (he’s just 5-10) & a steal to go along with a box +/- of +20 and a 103-102 Boston Celtics victory.

When given ample playing time, the point guard has simply made the most of things. Spending a majority of his first professional season in the G-League, Waters has boasted averages of 18 points, seven assists and three rebounds with the Maine Red Claws and helped guide the Boston Celtics affiliated developmental team to a record of 28-14, good for third place in the Eastern Conference.

It was clear that his play impressed more than just the C’s front office, as the buzz around trade season was the other rival executives and teams were reportedly gauging interest in the young guard.

Despite being selected in the mid second round of this year’s draft, Tremont Waters had quite an impressive collegiate career. Through two seasons with the LSU Tigers (2017-19), the point guard averaged a solid 15.6 points, 5.9 assists and 2.4 steals per game while achieving honors such as First-Team All-SEC and SEC Co-Defensive Player of the Year.

Had it not been for his slight frame — again, he is just 5-10, 175 pounds –stats and accolades like these very likely would have thrust him into the first round. However, things played out the way they did and the Boston Celtics were able to nab him in the second.

Simply put, it was made quite obvious that other teams and executives were interested in the possibility of acquiring the services of the 22 year old, with some admitting they may have made a mistake in passing on him in the draft.

With all this in mind, the Celtics should strive to see what they have in Tremont Waters. A way to do this? Thrust him into the primary backup point guard position next season and see if he sinks or swims.

At some point, coach Stevens needs to set the young buck free! Let’s hope that time comes in 2020-21.