Celtics Sign Former Lottery Pick Devin Carter to Training Camp Deal

The defending champions just found their latest reclamation project. Devin Carter, the 13th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, has agreed to an Exhibit 10 training camp deal with the Boston Celtics, securing a vital career reset just three days after being waived by the Atlanta Hawks.

For Boston, the move is a masterclass in zero-risk roster building. The Celtics currently carry 14 players on standard contracts and sit precariously close to the luxury-tax apron. By bringing Carter into camp on an Exhibit 10 deal, President of Basketball Operations Brad Stevens gets an up-close look at a former lottery talent without immediately committing guaranteed money.[1]

The financial mechanics of the deal are entirely in Boston's favor. Because Carter cleared waivers over the weekend, the Atlanta Hawks remain on the hook for his fully guaranteed $5.16 million salary for the 2026-27 season. If Carter makes the Celtics' roster, he will do so on a minimum deal, providing cost-controlled depth to a backcourt that underwent a massive overhaul following the blockbuster acquisition of Paul George.[2][3]

“The Boston Celtics and Devin Carter have agreed to a deal,” reported HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto on Monday morning, breaking the news of the acquisition. “Carter will compete for an NBA roster or two-way spot in camp.”

Carter's journey to Boston has been a turbulent two-year ride. Drafted out of Providence after earning BIG EAST Player of the Year honors, his professional debut was delayed by left shoulder surgery. He spent his first two seasons battling ankle, back, and calf issues in Sacramento, struggling to find consistent minutes in a crowded Kings rotation.

Despite the physical setbacks, the 24-year-old guard showed distinct flashes of his two-way potential last season. In 38 appearances for the Kings during the 2025-26 campaign, Carter averaged 8.9 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 2.7 assists in just 18.4 minutes per night.[3]

His defining moment came during an April clash against the Golden State Warriors, where he erupted for 29 points, hitting six three-pointers and showcasing the shot-making freedom that originally made him a lottery selection. Front offices across the league took note of that performance, viewing it as a glimpse of the dynamic scorer he could be when fully healthy.[2]

Sacramento ultimately moved on from Carter in late June, trading him alongside a 2033 second-round pick to the Hawks in a pure cost-cutting maneuver designed to duck the second apron. Atlanta, prioritizing the draft capital over the player, never intended to keep him. He was waived on September 11 before ever logging a minute in a Hawks jersey.[2]

Now, Carter returns to familiar New England territory. Training camp opens on September 28, where he will compete directly against rookies Milos Uzan and Tucker DeVries for either the 15th standard roster spot or Boston's final two-way slot. Amari Williams and Dillon Mitchell already occupy Boston's other two two-way openings.

The stakes for the young guard are clear. This is no longer about living up to his draft position; it is about proving he belongs in the league. For a Boston squad looking to fortify its title defense with hungry, versatile defenders, Carter represents the ultimate low-risk, high-reward swing.[2]