Lonnie Walker IV, who didn’t receive much attention in free agency, found excitement when Boston Celtics President of Basketball Operations Brad Stevens gave him a call. The 25-year-old saw the opportunity to join the Celtics as a thrilling chance, despite the team being loaded with star talent and fresh off a deep playoff run.
Walker signed an Exhibit 10 contract, just as Boston seemed to have wrapped up its offseason moves. The Celtics had already locked in Jayson Tatum, Derrick White, Sam Hauser, Luke Kornet, and Xavier Tillman with contract extensions totaling over $500 million. This massive financial commitment posed a unique challenge for Boston’s payroll moving forward. Nonetheless, ownership gave Stevens the green light to continue strengthening the roster, and Walker became one of the team’s dark-horse additions for the 2024-25 season.
“I bring additional scoring to the team,” Walker said during training camp. “Everyone knows I’m a microwave scorer. I can drive to the rim, shoot from deep, and just play within the flow of the game. With the offensive talent we have, the little things come easy. I’ll get open threes and backdoor cuts when I’m on the floor with Jayson (Tatum) or Jaylen (Brown) – just doing the small things that make a good team great.”
Last season, Walker played for the Brooklyn Nets, appearing in 58 games off the bench. He averaged 9.7 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 1.3 assists in just 17.4 minutes of play — his lowest minutes since his rookie year. Despite this, he shot a solid 42.3% from the field and 38.4% from three-point range. His availability in free agency was unexpected, making his signing with the Celtics an even bigger surprise.
Mazzulla lost Oshae Brissett and Svi Mykhailiuk this offseason, but Walker’s potential is a significant upgrade. His ability to score, facilitate, and defend, combined with his postseason experience, makes him a valuable addition. Walker’s drive to secure his place on the roster, possibly motivated by a sense of stability, could push him to shine in the preseason.
“I’ve been looking for a home since leaving San Antonio in 2022,” Walker shared. “I’ve been on one-year deals with the Lakers and Nets, and now I’m on an Exhibit 10. I’m just looking for an organization that truly wants me and can offer some consistency. I’ve dealt with inconsistent minutes due to circumstances out of my control. I’d love to find a team where I know my role and can contribute consistently.”
Walker’s willingness to prove himself, even if it means playing in the G League, shows his dedication to earning a permanent spot with the Celtics. If all goes well, he could be a crucial piece in Boston’s title chase this season.
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