The Boston Celtics brought back nearly the same exact team that they won a title with last year. Every major piece is back in place as they attempt to win a second straight championship, but that also means there isn’t much room for intrigue on the front of change. Fans are often excited to see what new pieces their favorite squad brought in to help, but that’s because the Celtics don’t need help.
However, during training camp and the preseason, they did bring in a new face—Lonnie Walker IV. Celtics fans quickly became enamored with the idea that Walker could join Boston for the 2024-25 campaign, but they let him walk prior to the start of the regular season.
But the saga may not be over.
Celtics interested in signing Lonnie Walker IV
According to Marc Stein of The Stein Line, the Celtics are one of a few teams interested in potentially signing Walker, as he is getting some NBA interest in the midst of his EuroLeague season.
“Lonnie Walker IV is drawing NBA interest and can be bought out of his Žalgiris contract in the EuroLeague by any NBA team until Feb. 18,” Stein tweeted. “Potential suitors said to include Sixers, Wolves, Heat, Nuggets and Celtics. Walker went to camp with Boston.”
Before the season, it was reported that the Celtics scoured the NBA for a way to dump Jaden Springer’s contract in an attempt to keep Walker around. However, when they were unable to do so, they decided to let Walker walk rather than spend the extra money to slot him into their 15th roster spot.
Through 16 games with Žalgiris across two competitions this season, Walker has averaged 13.0 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 1.6 assists while shooting 42.6% from the floor and 40.0% from behind the three-point line.
Should the Celtics decide to move Springer at the deadline, that could open up the wiggle room they need to bring Walker back for the stretch run of the season.
That said, per Stein, the Celtics could have some competition if they want to bring back Walker. The Philadelphia 76ers, Minnesota Timberwolves, Miami Heat, and Denver Nuggets would all make a ton of sense as landing spots for Walker.
And from his perspective, each of those teams would probably be able to offer far more playing time than the Celtics could.
However, if Walker wants to return to Boston, where he spent the preseason, perhaps a deal could be struck at some point this year.