Shortly after their victory over the Denver Nuggets on March 2, the Boston Celtics made a roster move, announcing they had waived rookie forward Anton Watson. The 24-year-old, who was selected with the 54th pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, had been on a two-way contract with the franchise but had yet to make an appearance for head coach Joe Mazzulla’s squad.
Watson spent the majority of the season with the Maine Celtics in the G-League but was unable to carve out a role with Boston’s NBA roster. In a corresponding move, the Celtics signed sharpshooting forward Miles Norris as his replacement, securing him on a two-year, two-way contract.
Despite his departure from Boston, Watson quickly found a new opportunity. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the New York Knicks claimed Watson off waivers, signing him to a two-way contract. He will now suit up for the Westchester Knicks in the G-League.
“The New York Knicks are claiming former Celtics forward Anton Watson on a two-way NBA deal, his agents Adie von Gontard and Daveed Cohen of Young Money APAA tell ESPN,” Charania reported via X.
Standing 6-foot-8, Watson brings defensive versatility and a developing three-point shot to the Knicks. Known for his high basketball IQ and ability to make smart reads, he has also flashed potential as a passer. If he can enhance his defensive intensity, he may have a chance to earn minutes under Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau.
Celtics Sign Miles Norris to Two-Year Contract
With Watson’s departure, the Celtics moved swiftly to sign Miles Norris to a two-year, two-way deal, ensuring his presence with the team beyond the current season. According to Bobby Manning of CLNS Media, Norris fits the Celtics’ archetype as a forward with size, length, and shooting ability.
“Miles Norris’ #Celtics contract is a 2yr, 2way deal, so he’s under contract for 2025-26 as well, I’m told,” Manning reported via X. “Also, for those wondering about his measurements, 6-7 1/2, 6-9 w/ shoes, 7-1 wingspan.”
Norris, 24, previously showcased his skills with the Memphis Hustle, demonstrating his ability to knock down shots from deep while providing defensive versatility. If he impresses with the Maine Celtics, he could have a pathway to an NBA role, much like past two-way players Sam Hauser and Neemias Queta, who successfully transitioned to the Celtics’ main roster.
Boston Strengthens Wing Depth with Torrey Craig Addition
Recognizing their lack of wing depth, the Celtics also bolstered their roster by signing veteran forward Torrey Craig, who was recently waived by the Chicago Bulls. Craig will remain with Boston for the remainder of the season, providing a defensive presence and floor-spacing ability.
For Norris, Craig’s arrival presents both a challenge and an opportunity. If Norris can showcase his shooting consistency, defensive versatility, and adaptability to Boston’s system, he may position himself as a potential replacement for Craig in the offseason.
Last season, Svi Mykhailiuk provided depth behind Hauser, but with Hauser battling recurring back issues, Boston has been in search of additional wing contributors. Stevens and Mazzulla will likely monitor Norris closely, evaluating his ability to fit within the team’s offensive and defensive schemes.
While cutting ties with Watson so soon after drafting him was a bold decision, the Celtics clearly see potential in Norris. If he can prove himself over the next 12-18 months, Boston’s front office may view this roster adjustment as a move that ultimately strengthens their depth and flexibility moving forward.
