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Nets’ Lonnie Walker IV being monitored by the Celtics via trade
Lonnie Walker IV is reportedly absorbing a significant trade interest coming from the Brooklyn Nets' division rival ahead of Thursday's trade deadline.
As many contending teams are eyeing the service of the Nets guard, Jake Fischer of Yahoo! Sports revealed that the Boston Celtics are meanwhile looking to bolster their bench depth, for which they identified Walker IV as a potential trade candidate.
“Another name on Boston’s radar: Nets guard Lonnie Walker, who’s generated a wealth of interest from playoff teams while playing well on a minimum contract, sources said.”
Lonnie's brief 2023-24 season background
This season has been a refreshing one for Walker IV.
Fully assuming the team's sixth-man baton, Lonnie has been a standout contributor off the bench. He is currently averaging 12.0 points, 2.1 boards, and 1.6 assists while having career bests in both field goal shooting rate (47.6%) and three-point efficiency (43.6%).
Lonnie was present in early discussion for the season's Sixth Man of the Year award discussion until he sustained a hamstring injury that barred him from 17 straight games. While his play and availability have been shaky since he returned, the 24-year-old still has been a reliable spark plug for the team’s support unit.
Lonnie is currently on a one-year minimum contract with the Nets for $2.3M, which makes him an intriguing piece to consider for championship contenders.
A conflicting trade consideration to contemplate
Lonnie recently gained another hamstring injury, making his trade case a complicated one to weigh for the Nets.
As it is, Lonnie's scoring production as the leader of the reserves has been integral for the Nets, which helped the team charge for a strong season start. But as it appears that his hamstring issues have been lingering and may continue to affect him moving forward, there has to be a significant consideration about his trade availability.
In their desire to remain floating to contend and flip a much-needed turnaround heading to the second half of the 2023-24 season, the Nets certainly see Walker IV as an important piece. But should there be an offer that is difficult to rebuff and can give many guaranteed benefits at their side, the ball club then may capitalize on his value and consider pulling the trigger.
