BOSTON — Jordan Walsh has been a revelation for the Celtics this season. The 38th pick in the 2023 draft needed three years to carve out real footing, but the Celtics now trust him in a meaningful role. His growth fits Joe Mazzulla’s system, and the organization appears ready to reward him. Boston’s story has shifted from developmental project to essential contributor.
Celtics Set To Make No-Brainer Decision on X-Factor
Earning Mazzulla’s Trust
Walsh did not open the season in Boston’s rotation. He stacked early DNPs as Mazzulla looked elsewhere for stability. Yet Walsh showed the resilience Mazzulla values. He forced his way into a consistent role, first off the bench and then into the starting lineup. Since the Celtics promoted Walsh to starter, the team has gone 10-2. Make of that what you will. His defensive playmaking stands out in every game, and it has reshaped how the Celtics view Jordan Walsh long-term.
Impact Numbers Tell a Clear Story
Walsh delivers strong impact minutes, and the numbers confirm it. Boston outscores opponents by almost eight points per 100 possessions when he plays. That swing places him among the team’s most effective rotational pieces. Walsh has become an X-factor.
Models that translate efficiency differential into expected wins project that Walsh adds roughly 15 wins over a full season. His impact flows from disciplined defense, sharp off-ball reads, and relentless energy. The boost appears every time Boston tightens its rotation.
Walsh averages seven points, almost five rebounds, and one assist on 58/46/81 shooting, though his three-point volume remains low. This performance is a major leap from his first two seasons, when he averaged under two points, shot below 40% from the field, and hit only 24.5% from deep. His defensive presence has been especially important. He averages 1.3 steals and 0.8 blocks since entering the starting lineup. Those numbers help explain why Celtics Jordan Walsh discussions now center on long-term value.
A No-Brainer Decision for Brad Stevens
Walsh’s emergence will force GM Brad Stevens into an easy decision. Walsh is on a partially guaranteed deal as a second-round pick. His contract becomes fully guaranteed on January 10, and Boston is not expected to waive him.
The bigger step is a rookie-scale extension. Boston can extend him during the season or in the summer, but the summer remains more likely. Walsh could sign a three-year deal worth between $12 million and $24 million.
Comparable second-round extensions help shape the range. Jaylin Williams signed for $24 million. Jaden Hardy secured $18 million. Ryan Rollins landed $12 million. These deals from the 2021 class give us a framework for Walsh, whose production now aligns with the upper tier of that group.
An Easy Call for a Rising Contender
The Celtics need players who fit their identity, and Jordan Walsh does exactly that. This partnership now looks like long-term business, not a developmental experiment. His emergence makes the next move obvious.
© John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
The post Celtics Set To Make No-Brainer Decision On X-Factor appeared first on Last Word On Basketball.