This coming season will be a unique challenge for Boston Celtics rookie Jordan Walsh. Last year the 19-year-old was a key part of an exciting Sweet Sixteen run in the NCAA tournament with the Arkansas Razorbacks. Just a few months later, he’ll look to crack Boston’s rotation as the Celtics gear up for a deep postseason run.
Like any NBA rookie, it will take time for Walsh to acclimate to the professional level. The competition across the board is bigger, faster, and more polished than what he’s experienced thus far in his career. Even the most high-profile No. 1 picks need months or even seasons to get used to this new challenge.
Buy Celtics TicketsThat doesn’t mean Walsh can’t make a positive impact with Boston, though. The Texan wing can earn consistent minutes by focusing on a few key parts of his game. Let’s take a closer look at what might be in store for the Celtics rookie.
What can we expect out of the most important season in recent Boston Celtics history? https://t.co/PIxtRmYJR3
— The Celtics Wire (@TheCelticsWire) September 29, 2023
Crash the glass
Walsh joins a loaded Celtics team with plenty of talent. It’s unlikely head coach Joe Mazzulla expects him to be a featured player on offense or a key individual defender. Maybe by the spring Walsh will have found a rhythm, but patience is key with NBA rookies.
One of the best ways to earn consistent minutes in the NBA is to rebound. This is true of young players, established veterans, and everyone in between. Boston already has a deep frontcourt rotation. If Walsh wants consistent playing time, proving himself on the glass is an excellent place to start.
Razorbacks men’s basketball coach Eric Musselman spoke about Walsh’s rebounding skills earlier this summer. It’s a part of his college game that should translate nicely at the NBA level and something that will benefit Walsh and the Celtics.
Here’s why Luke Kornet has a chance to be a key piece for Joe Mazzulla and the Boston Celtics this coming season. https://t.co/em6O2vkPYu
— The Celtics Wire (@TheCelticsWire) September 28, 2023
Have a short memory
The transition from college to pros can be difficult for athletes. One day you’re a big fish in a relatively small pond, and a few months later you’re back at the bottom. It can be a discouraging change of pace.
Walsh will commit turnovers. He’ll make silly mistakes. He may spend extended time with the Maine Celtics. His rookie campaign may indeed be successful and still feature a bit of whiplash on and off the court.
Learning from your mistakes is key, but it’s just as important to not let them linger. Walsh will benefit from being surrounded by so many veterans as a member of the Celtics, but he will still need to remember that making mistakes is part of the process.
How can Malcolm Brogdon maximize his offensive output with the Boston Celtics? https://t.co/6xoTT0HoMG
— The Celtics Wire (@TheCelticsWire) September 28, 2023
Embrace the journey
Walsh has had a busy summer since joining the Celtics. He’s been a part of camps and philanthropic efforts around the city of Boston. Walsh has also already had a chance to rub elbows with some of his new teammates.
Boston has real title aspirations, and Walsh landed in a special place as a new member of the NBA. Whether he ends up seeing a lot of action this season or not, he should keep his long-term goals top of mind. The players who watch, listen, and learn usually have the most fruitful careers.
Here are three goals for Sam Hauser to work on in the upcoming season. https://t.co/hoY1mqBlp9
— The Celtics Wire (@TheCelticsWire) September 28, 2023
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