Dennis Schroder Confirms He’ll Play for Boston Celtics Next Season

Dennis Schroder in 2016
Dennis Schroder in 2016. Photo by BabiradPicture/REX/Shutterstock

Veteran point guard Dennis Schroder, considered the best remaining free agent on the market, is joining the Boston Celtics for the 2021/22 NBA Season. Schroder confirmed the news himself via Instagram story.

“This is one of the best franchises in NBA history, and it will be an honor to put on the green and white and do what I love!” wrote Schroder alongside a mock photo of him in a Celtics jersey. “I’m going out there every night and leaving it all on the floor for the city!! Who’s ready?”

According to reports, Schroder will ink a one-year deal with the Celtics. He will earn a taxpayer mid-level exception of $5.9 million, which is the most Boston could offer him while avoiding hard cap.

The move gives the Celtics a proven point guard to fill the void left by Kemba Walker’s departure. Schroeder, on the other hand, is probably hoping to rebuild his value and land a massive contract next offseason.

Dennis Schroder reportedly already had a chance for his big payday midway through last season, but decided to reject a $84 million extension from Los Angeles Lakers. At the time, the 27-year-old player believed he can earn more in free agency and would attract offers of around $100 million.

Unfortunately for Schroder, the market didn’t pan out the way he hoped. The Lakers acquired superstar Russell Westbrook to be their starter, while other point guard-needy teams turned to other options. This left Schroder with limited offers, and the Celtics’ one, while disappointing compared to what he was hoping for, appeared to be the best one.

Schroder started 61 regular-season games for the Lakers in 2020/21 and averaged 15.4 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per contest. However, his numbers significantly dropped in the playoffs, as he only managed 14.3 points and 3.0 assists in the first-round exit against Phoenix Suns.