Curtis Stinson of the Iowa Energy

Because the Celtics have not frequently pursued this option, you might be unaware that in addition to assigning their players to the D-League team associated with them, NBA teams can call up players from any D-League team. During the D-League Showcase, the Utah Jazz called up Sundiata Gaines of the Idaho Stampede, and the NBA caught it on camera. All non-NBA assignees in the D-League have contracts with the league rather than individual teams, so they’re always available.

A call-up by the Celtics would not be quite so dramatic, with the Showcase over. Still, it would allow the Celtics to add another backup point guard at minimal cost. There are several good options out there, but one of the best is Curtis Stinson of the Iowa Energy.

Stinson is running the offense on what is (for now) the best team in the D-League, which would suit him well to running the offense of the Celtics bench. At 6’3″, 215 pounds, he’s fast as well as strong, with good defensive abilities. Right now he’s averaging about 15 points, 10 assists, and 6 rebounds per game. He’s been regularly notching double-doubles (nine this season, tied for second in the league) and has had more than a few triple-doubles as well. He leads the D-League in Assists Per Game, is in the top ten in steals, and is second in total points/rebounds/assists. He’s been a true leader for the team as well, helping guide them to the top of the league.

In other words, Stinson is ready for the NBA, practically aching for a call-up. There’s every likelihood he’ll be the next guard called up, especially with Gaines gone and Morris Almond playing for the worst team in the league. Given Stinson’s current amount of playing time and proven leadership skills, he could be a better option than bringing someone out of retirement. There’s every reason to think that he would fit in well with the Celtics, as well. He’s a talented point guard who’d be a significant scoring threat off the bench.

He would also be a relatively low-risk option for Boston, who could sign him to a ten or twenty day contract without trading anyone or spending much. There’d be no questions as to whether he was fit to play, or if he’d be happy on the bench. Stinson would, no doubt, be thrilled to be here and play his heart out in whatever time he gets.

The Celtics might not be spending much time looking at the D-League, but they should consider giving Stinson a chance. With Hudson definitely gone, he could be their backup point guard solution.