The Boston Celtics have made an important adjustment to their preseason roster by signing guard Jay Scrubb and waiving forward Tristan Enaruna. This move reflects the team’s ongoing efforts to finalize their lineup ahead of the upcoming season.
Jay Scrubb, a second-round pick in the 2020 NBA Draft, has faced challenges early in his professional career. After being drafted, he played for both the Los Angeles Clippers and the Orlando Magic, appearing in 24 games over his first three seasons.
Scrubb’s journey took a significant turn when he suffered a torn ACL during preseason practice last year. This injury sidelined him and ultimately led to his waiver before the regular season commenced, as the Celtics had to make tough decisions regarding their roster.
The Celtics have signed Scrubb to an Exhibit 10 contract, which provides the team with flexibility. This type of contract is typically designed for players who may not initially make the main roster but have the potential to contribute to a G League affiliate.
Recently, Scrubb announced on Instagram that he has been fully cleared to return to basketball activities, a significant milestone nearly a year after his ACL injury. This news is encouraging not just for him but also for the Celtics as they look to bolster their roster.
While Scrubb is currently on an Exhibit 10 deal, he remains eligible for a two-way contract. This means there’s a chance he could transition to a more permanent role with the Celtics if he demonstrates his readiness and skill during training camp.
In conjunction with Scrubb’s signing, the Celtics have waived forward Tristan Enaruna. Enaruna’s departure marks the end of his time with the team, as the Celtics continue to refine their roster in preparation for the season.
If Scrubb is waived again, he is expected to report to the Maine Celtics, Boston’s G League affiliate. Maine recently acquired Scrubb’s returning rights from the South Bay Lakers, allowing for a smoother transition should he end up there.
Playing in the G League would provide Scrubb with valuable playing time and development opportunities. This experience can be crucial for players recovering from injuries as they look to regain their confidence and performance levels.
If Scrubb spends at least 60 days with the Maine Celtics, he would be eligible for an Exhibit 10 bonus worth up to $77.5K. This financial incentive not only benefits Scrubb but also highlights the strategic approach the Celtics are taking with player contracts.
The decision to sign Scrubb and waive Enaruna reflects the Celtics’ broader strategy to build depth within their roster. By investing in young talent and keeping options open, the team positions itself well for both immediate and future success.
Overall, these roster moves showcase the Celtics’ commitment to developing players like Jay Scrubb while navigating the challenges of roster management. As the preseason progresses, all eyes will be on Scrubb to see how he performs and if he can carve out a spot in Boston’s plans moving forward.