Just days after questions surfaced about whether Dillon Mitchell could return to St. John’s for another collegiate season, the Boston Celtics have put any uncertainty to rest.
The team announced Wednesday that it has signed the No. 40 overall pick to a two-way contract, officially bringing one of its Summer League standouts into the organization.
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Mitchell’s status had become an unexpected storyline this week after reports surfaced that the NCAA appeal process could allow the 6-foot-8 forward to return to St. John’s for a fifth season. Because Mitchell remained unsigned, there was at least some uncertainty about whether he would pursue another year in college, where a lucrative NIL deal may have awaited him.
That speculation only intensified after CLNS’ Bobby Manning noted that if Mitchell returned to school, the Celtics’ ability to retain his draft rights beyond next year’s draft wasn’t guaranteed.
Instead, Mitchell is staying in Boston.
The athletic forward made a strong impression during Las Vegas Summer League, averaging 13.0 points, 2.7 steals and 1.3 blocks while flashing the defensive versatility and relentless motor that made him an intriguing second-round selection. He also knocked down 37.5 percent of his three-point attempts, albeit on limited volume, offering another encouraging sign as he continues to round out his offensive game.
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While Mitchell remains a developmental prospect, his archetype is one the Celtics have shown a willingness to invest in. Boston has prioritized long, switchable defenders under Brad Stevens, and the organization has already seen encouraging returns from similar young wings such as Jordan Walsh and Hugo González.
The two-way contract gives Mitchell the opportunity to split time between Boston and the Maine Celtics while continuing his development without the uncertainty that surrounded his future earlier this week.
Mitchell now becomes Boston’s second player on a two-way deal alongside center Amari Williams. The Celtics still have one remaining two-way roster spot available entering training camp.
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For Boston, the move also provides some welcome clarity.
Rather than navigating questions about Mitchell’s eligibility, draft rights, or a possible return to college, the Celtics can now begin developing one of the more intriguing young athletes from this year’s draft class. After the flashes he showed in Las Vegas, that’s likely the outcome the organization was hoping for all along.
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