What happened: The Boston Celtics and forward Jordan Walsh agreed to a three-year, $16 million contract extension. Boston will exercise its $2.4 million team option for the 2026-27 season before adding three more years to the deal. The agreement includes a team option for the 2029-30 campaign.
Why it matters: Walsh gives the Celtics a cost-controlled defensive specialist to bolster their wing depth alongside Jayson Tatum. The 22-year-old carved out a consistent rotation role last season by guarding multiple positions and taking on tough assignments against opposing stars.
By the numbers: Walsh averaged 5.4 points and 4.0 rebounds over 68 appearances last season. He was one of just 24 guards or forwards to post a block and steal rate above two percent, and ranked in the 90th percentile or higher for defensive positional versatility.
What to watch: Boston now holds multiple young wings under team control on low-cost deals for the upcoming 2026-27 season.