Boston Celtics forward Baylor Scheierman. Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images

Celtics' second-year wing is already impressing in training camp

By Adam Taylor | Last updated Oct 2, 2025 9:06 AM ET

Baylor Scheierman made 31 appearances for the Boston Celtics last season. He joined the franchise as the 30th overall pick in the 2024 NBA draft, following a five-year collegiate career (South Dakota State, Creighton).

Scheierman initially entered the league with the billing of being a sharpshooter, but has yet to find his touch from deep as he shot just 31.7 percent from deep as a rookie.

Instead, Scheierman's passing, playmaking, rebounding and impressive handles have been the reasons for him earning run within Joe Mazzulla's rotation. According to Mazzulla, who was speaking to the media following an October 1 practice session, Scheierman has been impressing with his defensive improvements.

"Having a better understanding of angles, having a better understanding of tendencies, I think having a better understanding of NBA actions, knowing where to be on the floor, [and] how to do your work early," Mazzulla said.

The Celtics have been built on a defense-first mindset over the past 10 years or so. Even under Mazzulla, who has earned praise and criticism in equal measure for his offensive approach, he is primarily a defensive-minded coach. He demands total effort and attention to detail on the business side of the court

Therefore, it's logical that Scheierman has moved to improve his defensive ability, as that is likely his best route to earning more playing time in the upcoming season.

Multiple young players to get a chance with the Celtics

This summer, Brad Stevens added multiple young and unproven talents to Boston's rotation. His moves are part of a roster reset, as he looks to develop a younger supporting cast around the star trio of Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown and Derrick White.

Scheierman will undoubtedly be afforded some additional playing time in the upcoming campaign. If he can secure a legitimate role, his future with the franchise may become far more secure. If not, he could find himself being floated in trade talks, either at the trade deadline or next summer.

The Celtics need competition for roster spots and playing time, as it will force the younger guys to develop their overall talents and commit to Mazzulla's approach. As a recent draft pick, Scheierman could have the inside track in the early battles for playing time. However, it's up to him and how he produces on the court as to whether he can stay in the rotation for the season to come.

Of course, it wouldn't hurt if his 39 percent three-point shooting in college began to translate over to the NBA, too.

Adam Taylor

Adam Taylor is a sports journalist based out of the UK. Adam has been covering the NBA for nearly a decade with a core focus on the Boston Celtics. He currently holds bylines with Yardbarker, SB Nation and USA Today

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