Upcoming Celtics forward is eyeing a Jaden McDaniels-like role

Boston Celtics forward Jordan Walsh has spent his first two seasons receiving minimal spot minutes. However, Walsh could be primed for a bigger role in his third year with natural progression and Jayson Tatum sidelined due to injury. Recently, Walsh listed Minnesota Timberwolves forward Jaden McDaniels as a player he is watching film on with the hope of playing a similar role.

Given Walsh's defensive prowess, McDaniels is a logical player for him to try to replicate. Walsh is still far away from McDaniels on both ends of the court. However, a McDaniels-like role is what Walsh could look like if he reaches his ceiling. 

The similarities between Walsh and McDaniels

Walsh has appeared in 61 games across two years, averaging 8 minutes, 1.6 points, 1.5 rebounds, and 0.4 assists with 36.7/26.6/57.1 shooting splits. His most notable impact has been on the defensive end of the floor. Walsh has shown an ability to guard multiple positions and force turnovers. He has also made a strong impact as a hustle player and rebounder. As a lengthy athlete with impressive versatility and a knack for defense, Walsh has clear similarities to McDaniels. 

Walsh’s offense has been a bit of a weak point in his young career. However, he typically scores around the rim by cutting, driving, or making hustle plays. This is similar to McDaniels and something that could be more noticeable if Walsh gets more minutes. Furthermore, neither player is a great shooter or playmaker. Shooting is a clear area of improvement for Walsh. He has never shot above 30 percent in either the college or NBA. 

McDaniels is far from a knockdown shooter; however, as a career 34.8 percent 3-point shooter, he is still miles ahead of Walsh. If Walsh can improve a bit as a shooter and make an impact similar to McDaniels around the rim, it could elevate his offensive game significantly.  

Recently, in the NBA Summer League, Walsh showed positive strides, averaging 15 points while shooting 38.9 percent from beyond the arc. If Walsh could shoot anywhere close to this in the regular season, it would greatly change his NBA outlook. 

Ultimately, it’s unlikely that Walsh reaches the ceiling of McDaniels. However, if he grows as an offensive player and earns consistent minutes, Walsh will look something like an early-career McDaniels. As a skilled defender and solid finisher, it’s wise for Walsh to be watching film on McDaniels.