Boston Celtics: Complete 2017 offseason grades

BOSTON, MA - SEPTEMBER 1: Kyrie Irving and Gordon Hayward get introduced as Boston Celtics on September 1, 2017 at the TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images) /

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Signing Shane Larkin

In the midst of their chaotic summer, the Celtics cut reserve guard Demetrius Jackson, leaving a hole for a backup point guard. Rather than take a flier on a young prospect, the Celtics brought over former NBA player Shane Larkin.

Larkin bounced around the league coming out of Miami, before finally heading overseas to ply his trade. He was a steady hand at the point in Spain’s top basketball league last season, and was expected to re-sign for a significant pay increase. Instead he accepted Boston’s invitation to return to the States and compete for a title.

For the Spanish club Baskonia last season, Larkin put up 17.3 points and 6.8 assists per 36 minutes — significant increases on the inconsistent numbers he put up during his time in the NBA. Boston is not relying on him to start, but rather to serve as the third point guard behind Kyrie Irving and Terry Rozier.

With Marcus Smart also able to handle point guard duties, Larkin does not figure to play a substantial role for the Celtics, but is present in case they need him. He sacrificed money to step back into the league, and Boston sacrificed a roster spot. It’s a low-risk, but most likely low-upside, move for Boston.

Grade: C

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