As the Boston Celtics continue to reconfigure their roster ahead of training camp, several players from their Summer League squad stood out.
Of the bunch, today we at the Houdini look at Jordan Walsh.
The Celtics acquired the young forward from the Sacramento Kings, who had selected him with the 38th overall pick in the second round of the 2023 NBA Draft. During his sole season at the University of Arkansas, Walsh averaged 7.1 points, 3.9 rebounds, 1.1 steals, and 0.9 assists per game.
Participating in Boston’s Summer League squad in Las Vegas, Nevada, Walsh proved he had much to offer. His standout performances impressed the Celtics, leading them to sign him to a four-year, $7.6 million deal.
Walsh appeared in all five games for the Boston Celtics, averaging 16 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 1.6 assists on 42.2 percent shooting from the field and 40.7 percent shooting from deep. He also showcased his skills on the defensive side of the court, swiping a steal throughout the Summer League.
Considering he shot a humble 27.8 percent from three in college, Walsh greatly benefited from the Boston Celtics’ spacing with how well he fired those shots with confidence throughout the five contests.
The matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers is where Walsh shined the brightest, as he dropped 25 points while getting eight rebounds, two assists, and a steal on an impressive 10/20 shooting from the field.
He was excellent on both sides of the court, having great shot selection and constantly moving on the court while playing tough defense on the Lakers. His two-way ability gives a solid indication of why the Boston Celtics traded for his services during draft night.
However, Walsh did have a few off-nights in the Celtics’ second and fourth contests against the Washington Wizards and New York Knicks. He combined for 25 points, five assists, and four rebounds but shot an unconvincing 7/25 from the field and turned the ball over four times.
Walsh has a strong knack for being a catch-and-shoot player when behind the 3-point line, but he could be more effective by using his off-ball movement as he displayed several moments of high basketball IQ when he did.
Jordan Walsh can develop pressure-free on long-term Boston Celtics contract
Being on a four-year contract is highly beneficial for Walsh. With the Celtics needing wings to back up Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, Walsh can develop in spurts off the bench while occasionally getting plenty of playing time in the G-League with the Maine Red Claws during year one.
This will allow him to develop at a steady pace while making the adjustments needed to improve his 3-point shooting and offensive game as a whole.
If Walsh keeps this up heading into training camp, the Boston Celtics can be satisfied knowing they found a gem in the second round.