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Ex-Celtics forward, No. 2 pick signs with European team

Former Celtics forward and lottery pick Jabari Parker has found a new home in his pro career. Parker is signing with powerhouse FC Barcelona, the team announced Monday. The deal is for about $2 million and includes an NBA opt-out clause, according to HoopHype’s Michael Scotto.

Parker popped up on the Bucks Summer League roster this offseason, but he didn’t end up playing for them because of a family matter, per the team. Parker was picked second overall by the Bucks in the 2014 draft, where he was expected to be a franchise cornerstone. But injuries have slowed down his career considerably as he’s still just 28 years old.

Parker has bounced around the NBA over the past few seasons, though he hasn’t appeared in a game since Jan. 2, 2022 for the Celtics. Parker initially signed with Boston in the 2020-21 season and even saw some playoff minutes against the Nets in the first round. He stuck on the roster going into next season, but he was waived Jan. 7, 2022. He hasn’t signed a deal with an NBA team since then.

Of course, Parker isn’t the first former NBA player to go overseas to continue their playing career. Ex-C’s All-Star Kemba Walker is headed to France to play for AS Monaco. Parker has showed his scoring touch in the league often, though injuries have sapped at his effectiveness. Regardless, he’ll continue collecting checks and playing pro ball.