Former NBA Player Kenneth Lofton Jr. Joins Boston Celtics Summer League Roster After MVP Performance in China
Kenneth Lofton Jr., fresh off an MVP season in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA), has joined the Boston Celtics' Summer League roster, signaling his intent to return to the NBA. Lofton Jr. played for the Shanghai Sharks in the 2024-25 CBA season, where he dominated the league and earned the coveted MVP award.
Lofton Jr.'s Impressive Stats in China
During his MVP campaign with the Shanghai Sharks, Lofton Jr. showcased a well-rounded game, averaging 25.2 points, 12.6 rebounds, and 6.5 assists per game. His defensive contributions were also notable, with 1.6 steals and 0.6 blocks per game. Lofton Jr. displayed efficiency from the field, shooting 53.7% from the field, 33.6% from three-point range, and 75.2% from the free-throw line.
Celtics Provide Opportunity for NBA Comeback
The Boston Celtics are giving Lofton Jr. a platform to prove his NBA worth in the Summer League. His performance will be closely monitored by the Celtics coaching staff and front office as they evaluate potential additions to their roster. Lofton Jr.'s addition to the Summer League roster was confirmed by multiple sports news outlets, including Hardwood Houdini and CBS Boston.
Lofton Jr.'s Previous NBA Experience
Lofton Jr. previously played in the NBA during the 2024-25 season, making appearances for the Memphis Grizzlies, Philadelphia 76ers, and Utah Jazz. His return to the NBA via the Celtics Summer League team represents a significant opportunity to re-establish himself in the league after a successful stint overseas.
Summer League Performance Crucial for Roster Spot
Lofton Jr.'s performance in the Summer League will be a key factor in determining whether he secures a spot on the Celtics' regular-season roster. The Celtics are looking to bolster their frontcourt depth, and Lofton Jr. could provide a valuable addition if he demonstrates his ability to contribute at the NBA level. Some reports highlight Charles Bassey as another standout player for the Celtics in the Summer League, adding competition for roster spots.
Stakeholders Closely Monitoring Lofton Jr.'s Progress
Several stakeholders have a vested interest in Lofton Jr.'s performance. The Boston Celtics are evaluating him as a potential roster addition. The Shanghai Sharks, his former team, will likely be watching to see if his success in China translates to the NBA. Other NBA teams may also be monitoring his progress, potentially considering him as a free agent if he doesn't land a spot with the Celtics.
Success in China Piques NBA Interest
Lofton Jr.'s dominant performance in the CBA has generated interest from NBA teams, including the Celtics. NBA observers are keen to see if his skills and production from the Chinese league can translate to the more competitive NBA environment. While there is no controversy surrounding Lofton Jr.'s return, there are questions about the level of competition in China versus the NBA.
Potential Outcomes Based on Summer League Performance
If Lofton Jr. performs well in the Summer League, he could earn a training camp invitation or even a guaranteed roster spot with the Celtics. This would provide the team with valuable depth and versatility in their frontcourt. Conversely, if he struggles to make an impact, he may need to explore other options, such as returning to overseas play or joining a G-League team.
