Before the Boston Celtics' game against the Milwaukee Bucks, head coach Joe Mazzulla provided an update on Devin Carter.
The former lottery pick hasn't played in a game since Boston's exhibition opener. He was dealing with mononucleosis. Now that he's back with the team, he's working on his conditioning and building stamina.
At his pregame media availability on Wednesday, Mazzulla said that Carter's in the reconditioning phase. The plan is to re-evaluate him shortly.
Wednesday afternoon, the Celtics assigned Chris Cenac Jr. and transferred Carter, Dillon Mitchell, and Amari Williams to their G League affiliate for their practice at the Auerbach Center. After their practice, Cenac Jr. and Mitchell returned to the parent club. With no announcement about the former Sacramento King rejoining Boston, it could signal that he'll suit up in Maine's season opener. They host the Westchester Knicks on Friday night at the Portland Expo Building.
Devin Carter could soon give the Celtics more guard depth
Whether it's Friday or it requires more patience, it's wise for Carter to start in the G League. Let him build his stamina, sharpen his skills, and reacclimate.
When he's ready, he could become a regular with the parent club. Players on two-way deals can be activated for up to 50 NBA games. If Boston wants, that might be enough time to convert his agreement to a standard contract without going over the luxury tax.
The former Providence standout being a positive contributor to the parent club would also make it easier to start Payton Pritchard. For now, the latter is the Celtics' sixth man. However, the starting lineup would benefit from adding another primary ball handler. Pritchard and Jayson Tatum work incredibly well together. The former Oregon star would also allow Derrick White to operate off the ball more often. White has done a tremendous job playmaking to start the season. However, he's still best off the ball. It would also allow the club to capitalize more on his three-point shooting off the catch.
When he's ready, Carter should fit in well in Boston. He forces turnovers and generates second-chance opportunities. Both speak to the energy and athleticism he plays with. The 24-year-old hounds opposing ball handlers. He also stays active when he's not guarding the rock. And if the Celtics' elite player development program helps him become more reliable from beyond the arc, they'll have found someone who could grow into a rotation player for years to come. Now that he's back on the court, he could join Neemias Queta as another former King who found a home in Boston.
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