Celtics Sign European Sharpshooter on Two-Way Deal

The Boston Celtics are having one of the most active offseasons in recent memory — and they’re not slowing down just yet.

Reports by CelticsBlog confirm the Celtics have signed Ukrainian guard Max Shulga to a two-way contract. Shulga was selected with the No. 57 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft and becomes the latest addition to Boston’s retooled roster.

Who is Max Shulga?

Shulga, 23, began his college career at Utah State before transferring to VCU, where he closed out his collegiate run with a strong senior season. The 6-foot-5 guard averaged 15 points per game while shooting 38.7% from three in his final year, showcasing the type of sharpshooting profile the Celtics clearly value.

While his Summer League stats weren’t eye-popping — 5 points and 3.8 assists per game on just 24.1% from the field — Shulga flashed instincts that go beyond the box score. He was a steady hand on the ball, competed hard defensively, and showed signs of adapting to the NBA pace.

Role and Opportunity in Boston

With JD Davison no longer in the mix, Shulga should slot into a featured G League role with Maine while having the opportunity to suit up in up to 50 NBA games under his two-way deal.

At 6-foot-5, Shulga’s wiry frame might face challenges against NBA physicality. But his consistent three-point stroke and pesky full-court pressure defense could help him carve out a meaningful role.

He’s already modeling his game after Donte DiVincenzo, saying:

“He knocks down open threes, plays defense, disrupts on the defensive end, and when it’s needed, he can playmake, create his own shot, create for his teammates.”

It’s a lofty comparison, but the skillset overlaps are real. DiVincenzo carved out his role as a glue guy — and that’s exactly the kind of player the Celtics could use at the end of their bench.

What’s Next for the Celtics?

Boston still has flexibility heading into the final weeks of the offseason. One standard roster spot remains open, as does a potential second two-way contract.

Ben Simmons continues to float as a possible low-risk, high-upside swing. Meanwhile, second-round pick Amari Williams is still unsigned and could factor into the team’s frontcourt rotation if added.

Shulga may not be a headline-grabber — yet. But Boston’s track record with player development suggests the front office sees more than just a flyer. He’ll have every opportunity to prove them right.