LAS VEGAS (AP) —While Dalano Banton has yet to make his Summer League debut for the Celtics, that should change shortly. A slight injury kept him out of the Celtics’ first two losses in Vegas, but he stated Tuesday that he’ll play against the Lakers at 10 p.m. on Wednesday.
That will be the first time Boston fans see the newest signee in a C’s uniform. The 6-foot-7 guard spent the previous two seasons with the Raptors, participating in 95 games as a backup. He’ll now be able to contend for a rotation role with the Celtics.
“Just being able to be a part of a championship contender, guys being able to push you, whether that’s guys in the first unit or guys in the second unit,” Banton said Tuesday. “I believe there will be a lot to learn from both ends of that, and being able to come every day, come and work.” Being able to challenge guys and just try to build every day, get in my own training, and see where I land in the rotation. Just going in, being able to work hard every day, and being able to show people my hard work and dedication.”
The Celtics signed Banton to a two-year contract as the team sought to bolster its guard depth following the Marcus Smart trade. While the C’s still have Malcolm Brogdon, Derrick White, and Payton Pritchard on the roster, Banton could find himself in a role. His size also offers a new defensive element.
But first, Banton will try to make an impression for the Celtics in Summer League. It’s an opportunity for him to demonstrate his game in its early stages. Banton should compete for a consistent role in training camp, but the Summer League days are valuable practice.
“It’s been a great experience so far, so just trying to jump in, trying to learn everything at a fast pace,” Banton added. “So just being able to join a championship organization, a team that’s high on winning, expected to win, and playing at that level, that’s a big deal.” So it’ll be a good challenge for me to evaluate where I’m at and be able to build with these folks while also pushing myself.”
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