With Kemba Walker out on Friday night with flu-like symptoms, the Boston Celtics called up two-way rookie Tremont Waters ahead of a matchup against the Atlanta Hawks.
Celtics head coach Brad Stevens told reporters pre-game that he is confident in playing Waters with Walker out of the lineup. In place of Walker, Marcus Smart will start for the Celtics.
Waters has three appearances with the Celtics this season. Stevens called upon Waters on Nov. 25 with Walker out of the lineup and the second-round pick responded by recording seven points, three assists, two rebounds, two blocks and one steal in 19 minutes of work.
Stevens said he’s confident if he plays Tremont Waters tonight with Kemba Walker out. With the Celtics hectic schedule over the next month-plus, Stevens said Waters and Tacko Fall will have opportunities soon at the NBA level.
— Jay King (@ByJayKing) January 3, 2020
Waters has spent the majority of the season in the G League with the Maine Red Claws. In 15 games played, he is averaging 20.4 points, 7.7 assists, 3.1 rebounds and 2.3 steals. He is third in the G League in assists and 11th in steals.
Waters has established himself as one of the best players in the G League this season. He has the ability to be lead a team on the floor and is often getting his teammates involved. After impressing at the G League Winter Showcase last month, rival executives believe he’ll eventually earn a standard NBA deal.
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