The Boston Celtics are attempting to strengthen their bench ahead of Thursday’s trade deadline, according to a story published on Tuesday night by Yahoo! Sports reporter Jake Fischer. Boston has its sights set on Nets guard Lonnie Walker and veteran Otto Porter Jr.
Otto Porter Jr. and Lonnie Walker are two players the Celtics might potentially acquire with their $6.25 million traded-player exception (TPE). When Grant Williams was signed by the Celtics and dealt to Dallas over the summer, the TPE was born.
Though Porter has only played in 15 games this season due to injury, the Celtics might be able to sign him without using the TPE if the Raptors buy him out. In the summer of 2022, Porter agreed to a two-year, $12.4 million contract with the Toronto Raptors. Porter Jr. participated in just eight games during the 2022–2023 season before requiring foot surgery that ended the season.
Porter, a former Georgetown star, is averaging 2.6 points on 42.4% shooting from the field in the games that he has played in this season.
The Brooklyn Nets would be interested in receiving players or draft picks in exchange for Walker. Walker, who is paid $2.3 million this season, would considerably increase the depth of the Celtics bench score.
In less than 19 minutes each game, the former University of Miami athlete is averaging 12 points. With five attempts per game, Walker’s 43.6% field goal percentage would provide Boston with another consistent deep threat.
Boston has been the subject of recent rumors indicating that they are seeking to acquire a big man, although it could be wiser to add a wing scorer to expand the choices for bench rotation.
Tuesday morning, Joe Mazzulla said he had discussed the team’s belief that they “have enough” with Brad Stevens.
History demonstrates Stevens’s willingness to take chances, and while it wouldn’t be for a star, it couldn’t hurt to acquire a seasoned bench player.
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