Lonnie Walker IV was signed by the Boston Celtics late in the offseason, shocking the NBA community. Even though most people expected them to keep the place open and save some money, they recruited a guy who averaged over 10 points per game the previous season, filling their 15th and final roster spot.
Walker is a highly intriguing player to take a chance on because of his ability to score frequently from all three levels, but his poor defensive skills could make him a liability in the Celtics’ rotation.
Here are three player comparisons for Walker with the Celtics: one disastrous, one reasonable, and one ideal.
Jaylen Nowell was a reliable NBA player when he was at his best. He provided the Minnesota Timberwolves with a few strong seasons, adding a nice offensive presence to their starting lineup. However, that isn’t the Nowell in question.
Nowell, who had a strong season in Minnesota in 2022–23, was compelled to sign a training camp contract last summer and is currently vying for a spot on the NBA team.
Not many spots are available for bench scorers who aren’t excellent defenders, and Walker runs the risk of becoming another Nowell if he leaves Boston.
Dante Exum, who rejoined the NBA this season, contributed significantly to the Dallas Mavericks in a relatively limited role. He played strong defense and had impressive shooting alongside to Luka Doncic.
Walker is a shooter on a par with Exum, even though he isn’t as good a defender. With Boston’s spacing in the lineup, Walker’s looks will only get easier.
Walker is a touch more skilled as an individual scorer and shot creator, so this comparison isn’t perfect, but given the number of ball handlers the Celtics have on their roster, Walker would fit in nicely in an Exum role (if he can work on his defense): mostly off the ball but having the ability to handle it when necessary.
Malik Monk’s career was struggling when he departed the Charlotte Hornets. He was prepared to go on, and the Los Angeles Lakers signed him to a minimum deal.
Walker has the skill and athleticism to play a similar role to Monk in a few years if all goes according to plan and the Celtics require him to play a big part.
