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Former Celtics first-round pick signs with Hornets in NBA return (report)

A potential familiar face for Celtics fans is back in the NBA, looking to make a comeback in the league. Former first-round pick R.J. Hunter signed a deal with the Hornets, which was first reported by Bleacher Report’s Chris Haynes. The deal is non-guaranteed, per the Charlotte Observer’s Rod Boone.

Hunter was picked 28th overall by the Celtics in the 2015 draft after a successful career at Georgia State. The rebuilding C’s at the time were hoping for some production, though Hunter wasn’t able to quite stick with the team. He bounced around the league, suiting up for Rockets and Bulls for a handful of games. Hunter found himself back in Boston on a two-way deal and did score 17 points against the Wizards on April 9, 2019.

Hunter hasn’t suited up for an NBA team in four years since then, playing overseas or in the G-League in the meantime. But now, he’ll have a chance to stick with the Hornets, who had a tough season last year. Hunter’s career averages in 45 games are 3.0 points and 1.0 rebounds.