What's Happening?
The Boston Celtics have signed Max Shulga to a two-way contract, marking a significant addition to their roster. Shulga, a former VCU standout, was selected 57th overall in the 2025 NBA draft and acquired by Boston in a trade with Orlando. The 6'4" guard, originally from Kyiv, Ukraine, played high school basketball in Madrid, Spain, and spent three college seasons at Utah State before transferring to VCU. During his time with the Rams, Shulga averaged 14.5 points, 5.2 rebounds, 3.8 assists, and 1.3 steals per game, earning first-team All-Atlantic 10 honors and the conference's Player of the Year award in 2024/25. Shulga will earn $636,435 for his rookie season and can appear in up to 50 games in the 2025/26 season. The Celtics are also expected to sign Amari Williams, their unsigned second-round pick, to a similar two-way deal.
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Why It's Important?
The signing of Max Shulga represents a strategic move by the Boston Celtics to bolster their roster with promising young talent. Shulga's impressive college performance and accolades suggest he could be a valuable asset for the team, potentially contributing to their success in the upcoming season. The anticipated signing of Amari Williams further indicates the Celtics' commitment to developing young players and enhancing their depth. These moves are crucial as the team navigates the complexities of the NBA's collective bargaining agreement and aims to remain competitive while managing salary cap constraints.
What's Next?
With Shulga officially under contract, the Celtics will likely focus on finalizing the deal with Amari Williams, their unsigned second-round pick. This will complete their roster adjustments for the upcoming season. The team will also need to integrate these new players into their system, ensuring they adapt to the Celtics' style of play and contribute effectively. As the season approaches, the Celtics will continue to evaluate their roster and make any necessary adjustments to optimize performance.
Beyond the Headlines
The addition of international players like Max Shulga highlights the NBA's growing global reach and the increasing diversity within team rosters. Shulga's journey from Ukraine to the U.S. underscores the opportunities basketball provides for international athletes. This trend may influence the league's scouting and recruitment strategies, encouraging teams to explore talent beyond traditional American college programs.
