The Boston Celtics made a move around the fringes that had some fans scratching their heads.
The Celtics signed two-way player Max Shulga to a standard NBA contract, per ESPN’s Shams Charania. The move allows Shulga to stay on the main roster for the final month of the regular season and playoffs.
The Boston Celtics are signing two-way Max Shulga on a standard two-year contract, sources tell ESPN. The Ukrainian guard went to Boston with the No. 57 pick in last June's NBA draft and has spent the season with Maine in the G League. pic.twitter.com/5eMzxLS8VO
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) March 15, 2026
Shulga posted strong numbers in the G League this season, averaging 15.6 points, 4.5 rebounds, 6.6 assists, and 1.5 steals across 36 contests with the Maine Celtics. But he hasn’t exactly produced during his call-ups thus far, going scoreless across games with the Boston Celtics.
The move left several Celtics fans confused. Many also wondered why the team would prioritize signing Shulga to a standard deal over Ron Harper Jr., who has played a much bigger role for Boston this season.
Why the hell would we do this
— 𝒃🏀 (@HiddenNBA) March 15, 2026
Before Ron Harper Jr? 😵💫😭😭😭
— Derrick White ᶠᵃⁿ (@DerrickWh1te) March 15, 2026
I trust in Brad…. Just please make sure to sign Ron Harper jr next in that 15th slot🤞
— CELTICS ☘️ BANNER 19 (@BiggLynch) March 15, 2026
The Celtics drafted Shulga with the 57th overall pick in last year’s draft, and likely see potential in him that isn’t exactly evident in his box score numbers.
Team president Brad Stevens also deserves the benefit of the doubt for finding several overlooked gems such as Neemias Queta, Hugo Gonzales, and Sam Hauser over the last couple of years. Shulga may simply be the next one in line.
