The Boston Celtics are edging closer to the start of training camp after one of their busiest offseasons in recent memory. With roster spots up for grabs and new faces looking to make an impression, Boston has added another name to the mix by signing Wendell Moore Jr., a former first-round pick out of Duke, to an Exhibit 10 contract, according to CelticsBlog.
Moore was drafted 26th overall by the Dallas Mavericks in 2022 and has logged 90 NBA appearances across stints with the Minnesota Timberwolves, Detroit Pistons, and Charlotte Hornets. He turned 24 earlier this month.
Moore Makes Noise in Summer League
This summer, Moore impressed while suiting up for the Orlando Magic in Las Vegas. He averaged 13.8 points on 44% shooting to go with 6.8 rebounds and a steal per game.
“I showed that I deserved to be in this league,” Moore told The Orlando Sentinel. “I showed I can be one of the best defenders out here. I can make shots, I can get downhill, play secondary lead guard if needed. I showed I can do a bunch of things on the floor that can help teams win.”
A Chance to Stick With the Celtics
At 6-foot-5, Moore brings positional size on the perimeter and versatility on both ends. In the G League last season with the Greensboro Swarm, he put up 19 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game, showing the kind of all-around production that keeps him on NBA radars.
Now, he’ll get the chance to fight for a roster spot in Boston. Exhibit 10 contracts often funnel players to the G League, but strong performances in camp or preseason could open the door to a two-way or standard deal.
Moore’s Connection to Anthony Edwards
Moore also has a long-standing bond with Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards. The two grew up playing basketball together and have known each other since they were six years old.
Back in March, when the Hornets faced the Timberwolves, Edwards reflected on that relationship:
“That’s my dawg. I’ve been hooping with Wendell since I was about six years old. That’s what a lot of people don’t know so…that’s my dawg,” Edwards said.
The former teammates have stayed close, and that connection has been a constant through Moore’s basketball journey.
Celtics Training Camp Roster Finalized
Moore’s signing locks in the Celtics’ training camp roster. Alongside him, Kendall Brown, Jalen Bridges, and Ron Harper Jr. will compete for a chance to stick.
Camp begins Monday, and the Celtics will use the preseason to evaluate which of these young wings and guards can carve out a role. For Moore, it’s another opportunity to show the defensive energy and scoring flashes that made him a first-round pick in the first place.
Whether he sticks with Boston or lands in Maine, he’ll be one to watch when camp tips off.
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