Baylor Scheierman’s Window in Boston Is Narrow - and the Clock’s Ticking
The Boston Celtics surprised more than a few people at the trade deadline - not because they made moves, but because of how they made them. While names like Anfernee Simons and Chris Boucher had been floating around the rumor mill, it was the decision to part ways with Xavier Tillman Sr. and Josh Minott that caught most fans off guard. Neither was a rotation staple, but both offered reliable depth - the kind you count on when the postseason grind starts testing your bench.
But make no mistake: Brad Stevens had a plan. The Celtics’ President of Basketball Operations wasn’t just shuffling pieces - he was steering the team under the luxury tax line, a forward-thinking move that opens the door for more flexibility this summer. The message was clear: Boston is all-in for a title run now, but they’re also keeping one eye on the long game.
That brings us to Baylor Scheierman - a name that didn’t pop up in trade talks but is very much on the radar inside the Celtics’ front office. His spot on this roster isn’t locked in, and the next couple of months could go a long way in determining whether he’s part of Boston’s future or a footnote in their pursuit of banner No. 18.
Flashes of Promise, But Still Searching for Consistency
Scheierman came into the season with some expectations, especially when Jayson Tatum missed time. The hope was that the second-year wing could help plug the gap, offering a blend of shooting and defense that fit Boston’s system.
Early on, though, he struggled to find his rhythm. While Jordan Walsh and Josh Minott had brief moments of impact, Scheierman was still trying to carve out a role.
Lately, he’s started to find his footing. Over his last 14 games, Scheierman has averaged 5.6 points and 4.4 rebounds while shooting an impressive 38.6% from beyond the arc.
That kind of efficiency from deep is exactly what Boston envisioned when they used a first-round pick on him in 2024. He’s shown glimpses of being the kind of 3-and-D contributor that every contender needs.
But here’s the thing: glimpses aren’t enough on a team with championship aspirations.
The Tale of Two Games
Scheierman’s inconsistency is still a concern. Take his last two outings as a case study.
Against Dallas, he managed just three points on 1-of-5 shooting, though he did grab seven boards. The next night?
He bounced back with 15 points and 10 rebounds on 50% shooting. That kind of variance is part of the learning curve for young players - but on a team like Boston, where every possession matters, it can also be a liability.
When Scheierman is hitting shots, his confidence spikes, and you can see it bleed into other parts of his game - rebounding, defensive activity, even his off-ball movement. But when the jumper isn’t falling, his impact fades. That’s the challenge the Celtics are weighing: Can he be more than just a shooter?
Why the Clock Is Ticking
The decision to keep Scheierman while moving on from Minott wasn’t made lightly. The front office clearly believes there’s more offensive upside in Scheierman’s game - enough to warrant further development. But that belief comes with a short leash.
With the Celtics now under the tax, Stevens has set the stage for a potentially aggressive offseason. That means roster spots will be at a premium, and every minute Scheierman gets between now and the end of the season is a chance to prove he belongs.
If he can consistently contribute - not just as a shooter, but as a rebounder, defender, and secondary playmaker - he could lock in a valuable rotation role heading into next year. But if the inconsistencies persist, Boston may look to flip him for a more polished veteran who can deliver in the postseason.
The Verdict
Scheierman’s talent isn’t in question. He’s got the shooting stroke, the size, and the instincts to be a contributor in today’s NBA. But on a team this deep, with title hopes this real, potential only gets you so far.
The next two months are more than just a developmental stretch for him - they’re an audition. The Celtics are watching closely, and so far, the jury’s still out.