The ‘champions’ Boston Celtics have reunited to begin their preparation to defend their title. After media day, the entire team had their first practice session. For most present, it was a normal day’s work. However, not for Lonnie Walker IV. The former Spurs guard saw firsthand how the elite Shamrocks prepare. The practice session was intense and brutal which helped the 25-year-old understand the Celtics culture a lot better.

“I can see why you guys are the 2024 world champions” he said after his maiden practice with the ball club. Despite him being on a minimum deal, Walker’s arrival has sparked a lot of excitement within the Celtics. His pursuit is to try and find a “forever home”. And in doing so Walker is squeezing every ounce of his effort to ensure he leaves an imprint during such sessions. The tenacity of the Celtics is aiding him in doing so.

“The competitiveness, the effort, the intensity. This is one of my favorite training camps I’ve been to,” the former Nets sixth man added.

It didn’t take him long to make an impression. Apart from his close friendship with Derrick White, the explosive guard has also looked at Jrue Holiday for some tips. He understands the dynamics within the Celtics and how his scoring arsenal isn’t the ask of the club. And he is immediately showing his versatility to his teammates.

“He has the ability to do a lot of things, he’s very athletic, he can score. Being on a team like this, we can utilize his skills. Who wouldn’t want a player like him?” his mentor of sorts Jrue Holiday said about Lonnie Walker IV. Their acknowledgment is the first step for Walker, who is hoping to awe the Celtics with his newfound mentality.

Lonnie Walker wants to replicate Jrue Holiday and Derrick White’s role

In his short NBA career so far, a common complaint about Walker has been his reluctance to do other things. During his tenure with the Nets, the 25-year-old saw reduced minutes due to this tendency. However, on the Celtics, having a chance to make an impact on winning, he has done his part in understanding the requirements the franchise needs from him. The key to unlocking them? Jrue Holiday and Derrick White.

Walker only came in a year after White. When on the Spurs, they fostered a great friendship. The skilled scorer calls him “one of my best friends” and also views him as the ideal NBA canvas. During their time together in San Antonio, he would often monitor the Olympian’s game and try to study him deeply.

With Holiday, he has had prior workouts to help him realize his defensive potential. At 6’5″, Walker boasts a lengthy 6’10” wingspan. As a guard, those are natural propellers to become a defensive menace. In his time with the Celtics, that’s how the 25-year-old wishes to evolve. “You got a plethora of great offensive players, so how can you implement yourself as far as rebounding, [bringing the] defensive tenacity, being tenacious on the defensive side, and things of that nature,” Walker claimed.

In doing so, the tandem of Holiday and White will be paramount in Walker becoming the second unit version of them. Apart from his defensive capabilities, Lonnie Walker IV has proven he can score the ball in many different ways. He possesses great awareness and with his riveting athleticism stands as a monstrous offensive threat.

If he fits in well, the Celtics could have themselves an affordable two-way expert who can be a decisive piece for the future. Considering his honesty in the process, it might just become a reality.