NBA free agency: Defending champion Celtics sign Lonnie Walker IV to one-year deal, per report

Walker shot 38.4% from 3-point range last season with the Nets

By Jack Maloney Aug 28, 2024 at 9:25 pm ET• 1 min read

The defending champion Boston Celtics have made an addition to bolster their depth ahead of training camp, which begins next month. On Wednesday, the team agreed to a one-year deal with Lonnie Walker IV, according to Adrian Wojnarowski. Per Shams Charania, the Exhibit 10 contract allows the Celtics to give Walker a bonus if he's waived in training camp and plays for their G League team. 

Walker, a first-round pick by the San Antonio Spurs in 2018, spent last season with the Brooklyn Nets. He got off to a great start, but then strained his hamstring, which kept him out for the entire month of December. Upon returning to action, he was unable to regain a rhythm. All told, he averaged 9.7 points and 2.2 rebounds in 58 games off the bench, and shot 38.4% from behind the arc. 

It's a bit surprising that Walker wasn't able to get a bigger deal, but it's possible he may have preferred the opportunity to chase a title with the Celtics. After all, he's only been to the playoffs twice in six seasons, and has never been beyond the conference finals. 

Walker's arrival means Oshae Brissett is likely not returning. Assuming that Walker essentially replaces Brissett this season, he'll be the ninth/10th man and his playing time will be dependant on matchups and injuries. Having him in that spot is a great option for the Celtics, as he can provide some individual scoring off the bench and floor spacing. Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla's offensive philosophy is based around having shooting at every position, and Walker has proven he can do that.