Celtics Sign Miles Norris to Two-Way Deal: A Boost in Depth
The Boston Celtics have made a strategic move to bolster their roster as the regular season enters its crucial final stretch. According to a report by ESPN’s Shams Charania, the Celtics are signing forward Miles Norris to a two-way contract. This addition not only provides depth but also injects a promising young talent with significant potential.
Miles Norris: A Versatile Threat from the G League
Miles Norris, a 24-year-old forward, has been making waves in the G League, playing for the Memphis Grizzlies’ affiliate, the Memphis Charge. Over 36 games this season, Norris has averaged an impressive 17.1 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 1.5 assists. His shooting proficiency is particularly noteworthy, with a 39.5 percent success rate from 3-point range. More than half of his made field goals (6.1 per game) have come from beyond the arc (3.3 per game), and he currently ranks third in the G League in made 3-pointers (79) this season. Norris’ ability to stretch the floor and contribute offensively from long range makes him a valuable addition to the Celtics’ roster.
Background and Journey to the NBA
A San Francisco native, Norris had a unique path to professional basketball. He played high school basketball at Brewster Academy in New Hampshire before enrolling at the University of Oregon. During his time at Oregon, Norris overlapped with current Celtics guard Payton Pritchard for one season (2018-19). After his freshman year, Norris transferred to UC Santa Barbara, where he spent the next three seasons from 2020 to 2023. Despite his collegiate success, Norris went undrafted in the 2023 NBA Draft. However, his talent did not go unnoticed, and he secured a spot with the Atlanta Hawks’ G League affiliate for the 2023-24 season. Norris also had a brief stint with the Turkish club Çağdaş Bodrumspor in the spring of 2024 before signing with the Memphis Grizzlies in October.
Potential Impact on the Celtics
Norris’ signing adds depth and versatility to the Celtics’ roster. As a 6-foot-7, 220-pound wing, he brings a combination of size, athleticism, and shooting ability that can be crucial in both regular-season play and potential playoff runs. His strong performance in the G League demonstrates his readiness to contribute at a high level, and his outside shooting could be particularly valuable in creating space for the Celtics’ star players. With the recent waiver of 2024 second-round pick Anton Watson, the Celtics now have three two-way players on their roster: Norris, Drew Peterson, and JD Davison. This roster flexibility will be essential as the team aims to maintain its momentum and compete at the highest level.
A Familiar Connection with Payton Pritchard
The connection between Norris and Celtics guard Payton Pritchard adds an interesting layer to this signing. Their history of playing together at Oregon could facilitate Norris’ integration into the Celtics’ system. Pritchard, known for his leadership and playmaking, could serve as a valuable mentor and on-court partner for Norris. This familiarity may help Norris adapt quickly to the NBA level and contribute effectively to the team’s success.
Looking Forward: Norris’ Role and the Celtics’ Future
As the Celtics prepare for the final stretch of the regular season and the playoffs, Norris’ signing is a smart move that enhances the team’s depth and flexibility. His ability to provide scoring and shooting options off the bench will be crucial in high-pressure situations. The Celtics’ front office has shown a keen eye for identifying and developing talent, and Norris’ potential aligns well with the team’s strategic goals. With the support of his teammates and the organization, Norris has the opportunity to make a significant impact and establish himself as a valuable asset for the Celtics.
