Around the Celtics building, everyone seemed enamored by Lonnie Walker IV. The former Nets player came to the Shamrocks in hopes of finding his forever home in the league. Through preseason, his strong intentions resonated through his play. He stayed vigilant, waited for his opportunities, and adjusted his playstyle according to the needs of the hour. “Who wouldn’t want a player like him?” Celtics’ Jrue Holiday questioned. If only he knew the tough decision the Celtics would have to make.

In spite of what has been a radiant preseason for Walker, the Celtics might be forced to part ways with the 25-year-old. Why? Due to the hefty tax burden that rests on their shoulders. According to Keith Smith, even though a minimum contract would cost just $2.1 million for the seventh-year player. However, due to their luxury tax placement, the amount would inflate to $11 million in additional salaries. Given that he is bound for a role off the bench, reports claim that the Celtics would prefer to let the free agent walk.  This scenario could stitch his return to their eternal adversaries.

According to Sixth Man Jake, an avid Los Angeles Lakers fan, he heard an interesting piece of news from a Boston reporter. With the Celtics likely to let Walker walk, the Purple and Gold have a genuine interest in reuniting with the bubbling talent. Their preseason, under new HC JJ Redick, hasn’t started off in the most fruitful way.

Their most recent loss to the Golden State Warriors was their third in four games. While they do seem vivacious and excited as a group under Redick, their three-point shooting remains a constant source of worry. Lonnie Walker IV could provide them with the much-needed floor spacing. The question is, can they bank on him again?

Lonnie Walker IV could be a valuable component for the Lakers

In his first stint with the legacy franchise, Walker earned his reputation of being a relentless scorer. Even today, his 15-point fourth quarter against the Warriors resonates with the Laker Nation. As a career 38% shooter who is available at a bargain for his talents, the Lakers wouldn’t normally hesitate. But there is a reason an explosive youngster such as Walker couldn’t fetch greater offers according to Smith.

The question has always been about his willingness to do more. Apart from being a scorer, can the former Net be impactful? In the past, maybe not. However, the 25-year-old is a changed man. In what has been a short preseason, Lonnie Walker IV is succeeding in the eye test with flying colors.

His game has several layers to unpack. When he saw extended minutes for the first time with the Celtics, Walker added seven assists. Then against the Raptors when scoring was essentially he poured in 20 points. Defensively, he has utilized his long wingspan to be disruptive, recording a 105.3 defensive rating while playing the 10th most minutes for the 2024 champions.

Even though he spent only a season, fans had their hearts crushed knowing he could be a member of the Celtics. Being celebrated by the fans is another factor that plays into the utility a player can offer. Lonnie Walker IV can make an instant impact through his sharpness and multilayered scoring acumen.

If possible, the deal should surely be one the Lakers consider with the due consideration it deserves.