Game 2 of the Boston Celtics’ Summer League campaign presents an opportunity for Anton Watson to build on his impressive professional debut. In Saturday’s loss to the Miami Heat, the second-round draft pick recorded eight points, two rebounds, a block, and a steal.
Watson’s 20 minutes off the bench gave Celtics fans a glimpse of his potential. The former Gonzaga standout demonstrated his ability to excel in various situations on both ends of the court, making four of his seven field goal attempts through smart cuts and positioning for dump-off passes. Following Monday’s shootaround, Watson emphasized that making the right plays is a core part of his game, but he aims to increase his aggression on both ends of the court.
“That’s kind of what I do, cutting…try to make the right play…I think I can be more aggressive on the offensive end, but defense, I can pick that up too,” Watson said. The 23-year-old showed his defensive prowess against Miami, effectively matching the physicality of players like Jaime Jaquez Jr. and Kel’el Ware while making astute reads in perimeter situations.
Watson’s highlight was a dramatic block on Jaquez Jr. late in the game, igniting a fast break for Boston. Despite the block being a notable moment, Watson was not content with just one defensive win against Jaquez Jr., who scored 30 points. “That felt good,” he said Monday. “I pride myself on defense, so blocking him, he had, what, 30 points still? That felt good, but that’s what I try to do.”
Celtics President of Basketball Operations Brad Stevens highlighted Watson’s defensive skills when he was drafted with the 54th pick. “Anton’s strength and ability to move his feet laterally give him a chance to be one of these big, strong hybrid forwards that can switch and guard a lot of people,” Stevens said last month.
Offensively, Watson can stretch the floor, having shot 41.2% from three-point range last season at Gonzaga. He hopes to display this aspect of his game against the rival Los Angeles Lakers. “I don’t even remember shooting one (on Saturday),” he explained. “It’s really just being ready when my teammates kick it out to me or just finding those opportunities, pick-and-pop.”
Finding his role with the team is Watson’s primary goal for Monday and the rest of the Summer League. Fans can watch Watson and the Celtics face the Lakers at 10:30 p.m. ET on NBA TV.