In a significant move bolstering their roster ahead of the 2025 NBA playoffs, the Boston Celtics have signed former Alabama Crimson Tide guard and reigning NBA G League Most Valuable Player, JD Davison, to a standard two-year NBA contract. The announcement came on Saturday, April 12, 2025, solidifying the 22-year-old’s place on the Celtics’ playoff roster.
Davison, who was initially drafted by the Celtics with the 53rd overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, has spent the majority of his time over the past three seasons on a two-way contract, splitting time between Boston and their G League affiliate, the Maine Celtics.
Dominant G League Performance Earns NBA Call-Up:
This season, Davison showcased exceptional talent in the G League, earning the league’s Most Valuable Player award. He averaged an impressive 25.1 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 7.4 assists per game for the Maine Celtics, leading them to the Eastern Conference Finals with a 21-13 regular-season record. His scoring ranked fourth in the league, and his assists ranked seventh, making him the only G League player to be in the top seven in both categories.
In the G League playoffs, Davison’s performance elevated further, averaging 34.7 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 13.3 assists in three games, demonstrating his ability to perform under pressure.
Three-Year Journey and Development:
Davison’s journey with the Celtics organization has been one of consistent growth. Despite limited NBA opportunities in his first three seasons (appearing in 35 NBA games), he has excelled in the G League, becoming a franchise cornerstone for Maine. He holds the Maine Celtics’ franchise records for points (2,677), assists (1,065), steals (158), games played (133), and field goals (994).
Celtics Reward Hard Work and Potential:
“His hard work and team-first attitude from day one with both the Boston and Maine Celtics have led to this achievement,” said Boston Celtics President of Basketball Operations Brad Stevens in a1 statement. “JD has embraced the idea of continuously improving, and we are thrilled for him.”
The Celtics had an open 15th roster spot, and signing Davison to a standard NBA contract fills that void, making him eligible to participate in the upcoming playoffs. This move is seen as a reward for Davison’s dedication and outstanding performance in the G League, and it also provides the Celtics with additional guard depth as they embark on their playoff campaign.
Playoff Implications:
While it remains to be seen what role Davison will play in the playoffs, his athleticism, playmaking ability, and improved offensive game could provide a spark off the bench for the Celtics. He joins a talented guard rotation that includes Derrick White, Jrue Holiday, and Payton Pritchard.
The Boston Celtics finished the regular season as the second seed in the Eastern Conference with a 61-21 record. They are scheduled to begin their playoff journey on Sunday, April 20, 2025, at TD Garden against the winner of the Play-In Tournament game between the Orlando Magic and the Atlanta Hawks.
Two-Year Contract Provides Future Security:
Davison’s new contract is reportedly a two-year deal, extending through next season. This indicates the Celtics’ belief in his long-term potential and provides him with an opportunity to further develop and potentially carve out a more significant role with the NBA team in the future.
This signing marks a significant milestone for JD Davison, transitioning from a two-way player to a full-fledged member of a championship-contending NBA team just in time for the playoffs. His journey exemplifies the value of the G League as a development platform and highlights the Celtics’ commitment to nurturing talent within their organization.
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