Celtics’ Joe Mazzulla Reveals Why He Keeps Starting Jordan Walsh originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Celtics are setting up their roster for the 2026-27 regular season. Several players have impressed during the preseason. One player who has stood out, and who coach Joe Mazzulla has shown interest in, is Jordan Walsh.
In the Celtics' 114-93 preseason win over the Hornets, he had two points in 17 minutes. However, he did have one block and three rebounds. Walsh scored six points in 11 minutes against the 76ers with five rebounds, a steal, and a block.
Walsh has seen increased playing time. Will that result in opportunities during the regular season?
Mazzulla has been impressed with Walsh’s aggressive style, especially on defense, where he's had three blocks, a steal, and 10 rebounds in three games.
"Jordan continues to be really good at the start of games. Guarding the team's best player, getting off to a good start defensively," Mazzulla said via CLNS Media. "Something he's done well for us those last couple of games. It's a huge role for him, that we're going to need from him."
The 38th pick by the Kings in the 2023 NBA Draft, the Celtics traded for Walsh’s draft rights. He earned a championship ring during the 2023-24 season.
Walsh’s skills improved during the 2025-26 campaign, averaging 5.4 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 0.5 blocks per game.
Walsh recently signed a three-year, $15 million extension with the Celtics. It’s unclear if that guarantees Walsh a starting spot over Baylor Scheierman or Sam Hauser. However, Mazzulla has been impressed enough to consider offering him a key role.