Sacramento Kings select Jordan Walsh in 2023 NBA Draft, trade him to Boston Celtics

Arkansas head coach Eric Musselman has done nothing but put players in the NBA since taking over the program. He has heard a few more names called on Thursday night, with freshman forward Jordan Walsh being the latest. The Sacramento Kings selected Walsh in the second round, with the No. 38 overall pick, and trade him to the Boston Celtics.

Walsh played in 36 games last season with Arkansas. He averaged 7.1 points and 3.9 rebounds per game but struggled shooting the ball. A three-point average of 27.8% was not what the Razorbacks were hoping for, with Walsh hoping to improve heading into his NBA career.

When Walsh decided to stick with the draft, there was some surprise. Many thought he was a prime candidate to head back to Arkansas and get another season of college basketball under him. With Musselman building another elite roster, the potential to break out would have been there for Walsh.

But moving on to the NBA wound up being his decision. It’s paid off in a big way as well, with his dreams coming to life. A cool moment for Walsh and his family.

Walsh played high school basketball at Cedar Hill (TX) Link Year Prep, where he was a four-star prospect. He was the No. 22 overall recruit in the 2022 cycle, according to the On3 Industry Rankings, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies.

Being a fringe five-star prospect, there is still a ton of untapped potential with Walsh. The Celtics could wind up getting one of the steals of the draft, wanting to develop Walsh into the star some people think he can be.

What NBA Draft experts are saying about Jordan Walsh

Ahead of the 2023 NBA Draft, a scouting report was given on Walsh, with positive things being said about the Arkansas product. NBA.com gave their analysis, calling Walsh a “modern forward” in today’s game. Walsh’s length is considered another positive heading into his professional career.

“Walsh has impressive size and athleticism for a modern-day forward,” the NBA.com analysis said. “He has a good feel of when to cut and is a relentless finisher at the rim. His length allows him to bother opponents all over the floor and create turnovers.”

Boston is clearly a fan of the evaluation, taking Walsh on Thursday night. Summer league will be here before we know it as Walsh will get the immediate opportunity to showcase his talents.