Austin Reaves says Celtics starter has potential to be top NBA defender

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Austin Reaves says Celtics starter has potential to be top NBA defender

Souichi Terada · MassLive

Sat, Dec 6, 2025 ·

2 min read

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BOSTON — Jordan Walsh has been the Celtics ’ breakout player of the season as he’s stacked together multiple great games. The C’s have enjoyed success ever since Walsh was inserted into the starting lineup, winning nine of their last 11 games.

Walsh was tasked with guarding Lakers guard Austin Reaves , who’s enjoying his own breakout campaign. The Celtics blew out the Lakers on Friday , though Reaves caught fire in the second half on his way to 36 points. Reaves talked about Walsh’s potential and what he saw facing the lengthy defender.

“He just plays hard as crap every single possession,” Reaves said. “You don’t take a possession off. His ability, his length, his athleticism. He’s physically gifted. Moves really well. I could see him being one of the best defenders in the league for many years to come. He made shots tonight. Good player.”

Walsh finished with 17 points and four rebounds Friday in his 26 minutes, shooting 6-for-7 from the field. That follows up his career game against the Wizards the night before, where he finished with a career-high 22 points on 8-for-8 shooting. It’s not like he’s just making high-percentage shots as he’s 5-for-6 on 3s over the past two nights.

The offensive production is always welcome for the Celtics, but Walsh’s relentless energy is his ticket to consistent playing time. His defensive assignments over the past few weeks have been a who’s who of star players across the NBA, including Jalen Brunson , Donovan Mitchell and more. Walsh’s wingspan was measured at 7-foot-1 at his NBA combine, and he utilities that length effectively.

It’s clear Walsh is a productive NBA player, though he’ll look to prove this isn’t just a solid stretch over the past month. He’s already earned C’s coach Joe Mazzulla’s trust because how he works diligently behind the scenes. Walsh continues to put together these stellar games as the 21-year-old is carving out his role in the league.

“Honestly, it’s been great,” Jaylen Brown said of Walsh’s growth. “I don’t want to boost his head up too much. I don’t want him to start getting cute. He’s gotta still take care of the details, but he’s been doing a good job. But we’re going to need him to maintain that, so y’all don’t boost his head up too much.”

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