Boston Celtics: Complete 2018 offseason grades

Adding Brad Wanamaker

An understated move over the offseason for Boston was the addition of the former All-American honorable mention, Brad Wanamaker. The 6’4″ guard was signed to a one-year minimum deal, providing the Celtics with further depth to their loaded guard rotation.

The 27-year-old Wanamaker has spent seven seasons in Europe after going un-drafted in 2011. He has been able to build an impressive professional resume overseas, with accolades including a German Bundesliga title with Bamburg, in which he took out the Finals MVP in 2014-15. The following season he won the MVP of the German league, as his squad collected back-to-back domestic championships.

Last season, he reached the EuroLeague final four with the Turkish powerhouse Fenerbahce, before an NBA opportunity finally presented itself.

If all goes to plan, it’s hard to see Wanamaker fitting into the rotation this coming season, with Kyrie Irving, Terry Rozier, Marcus Smart and Gordon Hayward set to play major minutes for Brad Stevens. The signing looms as a savvy one, however, as his lengthy professional career will hold him in good stead to not be overawed by the occasion should his opportunity arise.

After getting solid play from veteran European recruits Shane Larkin and Daniel Theis last season, it appears the Celtics have found a formula they are comfortable with in filling out the bottom spots on their roster.

Via Boston.com, assistant general manager Mike Zarren described some of the traits that attracted the franchise to their newest guard.

"“He’s tough,” Zarren said. “He can guard multiple positions. He can shoot. He can handle. We’re real happy to add him to the team.”"

Averaging 12.8 points per game on 34.3 percent shooting from deep over his professional career, Wanamaker has proven himself as an offensive threat overseas. With excellent size for his position, and a willingness to defend, he carries the attributes to fit in with Boston’s team-first style.

Understated sure, but as far as final roster talents go, it’s a very solid signing for the Celtics.

Grade: B