The definitive Boston Celtics' 2018 NBA Draft primer

https://celticswire.usatoday.com/2018/06/09/the-definitive-boston-celtics-2018-nba-draft-primer/



The definitive Boston Celtics' 2018 NBA Draft primer



By: Greg Cassoli | June 9, 2018 5:51 pm



The Boston Celtics enter the 2018 NBA Draft with just a single selection for the first time in years. They’re currently slotted to make the 27th overall pick.

Finding a diamond in the rough that deep in the Draft can change the fortune of a franchise. Boston is already very much on the path to success, but landing another legitimate, young piece this summer could go a long ways to easing some of the team’s future financial burdens.


The Celtics have undoubtedly done a diligent job of scouting all the players that are likely to be available to them at 27, but they aren’t going to make what they’ve learned available to the public any time soon. That’s why we here at Celtics Wire have taken the time to compile all the information you need to know about every prospect likely to be on Boston’s radar.


The strengths and weaknesses of each player presented have been aggregated across three sources: Sports Illustrated, NBADraft.net, and The Ringer (up to date as of 6/9/2018). The hope is to offer multiple perspectives in an effort to provide a more holistic understanding of all the prospects in play for the Celtics.

From this point forward each source will be abbreviated as follows:

Sports Illustrated = SI
NBADraft.net = NBAD
The Ringer = Ringer

This exercise includes every player that has been reported to have worked out with or been interviewed by Boston, as well as a handful of players that have not been linked to the team, but are likely to be available when they ultimately make their selection.

We’ve also included a second, supplementary section that highlights a handful of players that the Celtics have been reported to have interviewed and who are likely to be taken towards the top of the Draft, as Boston has been rumored to have some interest in trading up.


The 27th Pick

This section provides a brief bio, the individual rank of each prospect across all three sources of information, and an aggregated list of strengths and weakness – the sources of which are included in parentheses. Prospects are listed by their aggregate rank across all three sources of information.


KEVIN HUERTER

Rank
NBAD = 19
Ringer = 21
SI = 19

Position: Wing
Height (with shoes): 6’7.25″
Wingspan: 6’7.5″
Age: 19.83

Huerter is a sweet shooting wing prospect with good size. His stock is on the rise after a strong showing at the Draft Combine. It isn’t particularly likely that he’ll be around when the Celtics make their selection, but – after working for Boston in late May – they’ll likely be keeping an eye on him.

Strengths
– Skilled three-point shooter, one of if not the best in the Draft (SI,  Ringer, NBAD)
– Good size for a shooting guard (SI, Ringer, NBAD)
– Talented passer (SI, Ringer, NBAD)
– Capable of attacking closeouts (SI, Ringer)
– High basketball IQ (Ringer, NBAD)
– Plays hard on defense (Ringer, NBAD)

Weaknesses
– Lean frame (Ringer, NBAD)
– Lacks quickness (Ringer, NBAD)
– Doesn’t have the fastest release on jump shot (Ringer)
– Makes too many risky passes (Ringer)
– Limited length, despite size (NBAD)
– Not a great finisher, may struggle to get to the rim against elite athleticism (NBAD)


MITCHELL ROBINSON

NBAD = 21
Ringer = 25
SI = 16

Position: Big
Height (with shoes): 7’1″
Wingspan: 7’4″
Age: 20.17

Robinson hasn’t been reported to have worked out or met with the Celtics as of yet, but he does project to be taken somewhere within the ballpark of their only selection. He’s a big springy athlete, dripping with physical potential.

Strengths
– Elite athlete, particularly as a leaper (Ringer, SI)
– Substantial potential as a rim-protector thanks to mobility and athleticism (Ringer, SI)
– Good length (Ringer, SI)
– Skilled interior finisher with good hands, capable of dunking through traffic (Ringer)
– Has shown potential to develop as a ball handler on the break (Ringer)
– Good rebounder (Ringer)
– May grow into capable switch defender as instincts improve (Ringer)

Weaknesses
– Subpar feel for the game (Ringer, SI)
– Not a good screener (Ringer)
– Lacks passing vision (Ringer)
– Raw post scorer (Ringer)
– Questionable defensive instincts and fundamentals (Ringer)
– Opted to skip college at the last minute (Ringer, SI)


DONTE DIVINCENZO

NBAD = 18
Ringer = 29
SI = 23

Position: Guard
Height (with shoes): 6’4.5″
Wingspan: 6’6″
Age: 21.42

DiVincenzo is a brash scorer who lives for big moments, and has been projected as the Celtics’ pick in a lot of mock drafts. The fact that Boston’s president of basketball operations, Danny Ainge, took him out to lunch after a recent workout has only added fuel to the fire of speculation.

Strengths
– Productive scorer and creative finisher (NBAD, Ringer)
– High-flyer with strong frame (NBAD, SI)
– Skilled shooter (NBAD, Ringer, SI)
– Hard working defender (NBAD, Ringer)
– Unafraid of big moments (NBAD)
– Focused on winning and willing to place team success ahead of individual success (NBAD, Ringer)
– High basketball IQ (NBAD)
– Agile changing direction (Ringer)
– Good feel for the game (Ringer)
– Excels in transition (SI)

Weaknesses
– Occasionally streaky shooter (NBAD, Ringer, SI)
– Uninspiring free throw shooter (NBAD, Ringer)
– Can be overpowered by bigger guards and wings (NBAD, Ringer)
– Played on a talented collegiate team and was never forced to be the primary target of opponents’ game plans (NBAD)
– Prone to getting blown by by quicker players (Ringer)
– At age 21, is slightly older than many fellow prospects (NBAD)
– May be undersized as a shooting guard, but hasn’t shown an ability to function as a pure point guard (NBAD)
– Lacks elite first step or top gear (Ringer)
– Yet to demonstrate he’s capable of hitting shots off screens (Ringer)
– Occasionally telegraphs passes (Ringer)
– Handle must improve (SI)


CHANDLER HUTCHISON

NBAD = 22
Ringer = 17
SI= 39

Position: Wing
Height (with shoes): 6’7″
Wingspan: 7’1″
Age: 22.12

Hutchison is a long, skilled wing player out of Boise State. He isn’t the most explosive athlete, but projects as useful two-way contributor regardless. The Celtics have not been reported to have met with him as of yet and may be off the board at 27, though it isn’t entirely inconceivable that he will be available when they pick.

Strengths
– Productive scorer (SI, NBAD)
– Effective attacking the rim in straight line drive situations (SI, Ringer)
– Makes an impact on the glass (SI, Ringer)
– Projects as useful secondary playmaker (SI, Ringer)
– Improved every year of his college career (NBAD, Ringer)
– Solid spot-up shooter (Ringer, NBAD)
– Hard worker (SI)
– Springy leaper (Ringer)
– Good team defender (Ringer)
– Good size and length for a wing (NBAD)

Weaknesses
– Fairly ineffective creating and shooting off the bounce (SI, Ringer)
– Occasionally tries to do too much driving to the basket (Ringer)
– Average first step (Ringer)
– Average lateral quickness (Ringer)
– At 22, is slightly older than many fellow prospects (NBAD)
– Needs to add strength (NBAD)
– Somewhat streaky scorer (NBAD)
– Needs to protect the ball more consistently (NBAD)
– Needs to continue to improve his three-point shooting (NBAD)
– Room for improvement as a defender (NBAD)


AARON HOLIDAY

NBAD = 27
Ringer = 30
SI = 20

Position: Guard
Height (with shoes): 6’0.75″
Wingspan: 6’7.5″
Age: 21.67

Aaron Holiday is a smaller point guard, capable of scoring in a multitude of ways. Boston likely has too many cooks in the kitchen at Holiday’s position as it is, but if the Celtics decide to move on from Terry Rozier or Marcus Smart across the course of the next two summers, then landing a player like Holiday may make sense.

Strengths
– Capable of beating defenders off the bounce (NBAD)
– Effective finisher with both hands and through contact (NBAD, Ringer)
– Excellent court vision (NBAD, Ringer)
– Three-level scorer (NBAD, SI)
– Smooth, dynamic, and effective shooter (NBADrat.net, Ringer, SI)
– Hardworking, smart defender with quickness stay in front of most NBA opponents (NBAD, Ringer, SI)
– Has two brothers playing in the NBA from whom to seek advice (NBAD, Ringer)
– Good feel for the game (NBAD)
– Intelligently navigates the pick-and-roll (Ringer)

Weaknesses
– At 6’1” and 185 pounds, he’s small by NBA standards (NBAD, SI)
– Likely only a one position defender (NBAD, SI)
– Limited leaping ability makes it difficult to finish by the bucket (NBAD)
– Needs to improve fighting through screens (NBAD)
– Needs to get better closing out on shooters (NBAD)
– Can get careless with the ball (NBAD)
– At 22, is slightly older than many fellow prospects (NBAD)
– Lacks burst and has limited first step (Ringer)
– Struggled against defensive pressure in college (Ringer)
– May have difficulty defending elite point guards (Ringer)


DZANAN MUSA

NBAD = 32
Ringer = 26
SI = 22

Position: Wing
Height (with shoes): 6’9″
Wingspan: 6’8.25″
Age: 19.08

Musa is considered by many (though not all) to be the best international prospect after Luka Doncic. Boston hasn’t been afraid to select players from overseas, but no interest or contact has been reported between Musa and the Celtics.

Strengths
– Improving playmaker with a solid feel for the game (SI, NBAD)
– Capable natural scorer (Ringer, NBAD)
– Fearless shooter capable of making shots from strange angles all over the court (Ringer, NBAD)
– Good pick-and-roll threat (Ringer, NBAD)
– Creative interior finisher (Ringer, NBAD)
– Advanced ball handler (Ringer, NBAD)
– Possesses smooth footwork (Ringer)
– Not afraid of the moment (NBAD)
– Has a good first step (NBAD)
– Highly adept at drawing fouls (NBAD)

Weaknesses
– Needs to add strength (SI, NBAD)
– Lacks ideal length (SI, NBAD)
– Not much of an individual defender (SI, Ringer, NBAD)
– Has a slight hunch (Ringer, NBAD)
– Plays with an aggressiveness that sometimes veers into recklessness (Ringer, NBAD)
– Stagnates team offense with isolations too frequently (Ringer)
– Ball dominant player who lacks creation ability off the bounce (SI)
– Low release on jumpshot (Ringer)
– Loses focus away from the ball defensively (Ringer)
– Average NBA athlete (NBAD)
– Prone to streakiness as a shooter (NBAD)
– Needs to learn how to be more effective in an off-ball role on offense (NBAD)


KHYRI THOMAS

Position: Guard/Wing
Height (with shoes): 6’3.75″
Wingspan: 6’10.5″
Age: 22.08

Thomas is a good shooter and an elite defender. He has the tools to be a very useful cog in the Celtics’ system, and met with Boston at the NBA Draft Combine.

Strengths
– Elite perimeter defender (Ringer, SI)
– Knockdown shooter (NBAD, Ringer)
– Doesn’t settle for bad looks (NBAD, SI)
– Impressive length allows him to play bigger than his height (NBAD, Ringer, SI)
– Very strong frame (NBAD, Ringer, SI)
– Plays under control and stays on balance (NBAD)
– Capable isolation scorer (NBAD)
– Composed, determined, and competitive (NBAD)
– Good rebounder for position (NBAD)
– Solid assist/turnover numbers (NBAD)
– Effective off-ball defender (Ringer)
– Turns defense into offense via turnovers and deflections (Ringer)
– Ambidextrous scorer at the rim (Ringer)
– Skilled post player (Ringer)

Weaknesses
– Not a capable pick-and-roll ball handler (NBAD, Ringer)
– High, loose handle with limited creativity off the bounce (Ringer, SI)
– Lacks elite explosiveness (NBAD)
– At 22, is slightly older than many fellow prospects (NBAD)
– Could be more aggressive attacking the basket and drawing fouls (NBAD)
– Lacks a great first step (NBAD)
– Could be more active and effective off-ball on offense (NBAD)
– Two-foot jumper (NBAD)
– Uncomfortable shooting off the dribble (Ringer)
– Must extend range to assure his game translates to the NBA (Ringer)
– Occasionally telegraphs passes (Ringer)


ANFERNEE SIMONS

NBAD = 23
Ringer = 35
SI = 24

Position: Guard/Wing
Height (with shoes): 6’3.25″
Wingspan: 6’9.25″
Age: 19.08

Simons is young, raw, athletic scorer. He reclassified to join the 2018 draft. He has not been reported to have met with or worked out for the Celtics, but if he is available at 27, Simons may be the kind of high ceiling, low floor player that a team with as deep a roster as Boston’s is worth taking a flyer on.

Strengths
– Springy, quick-twitch athlete (SI, Ringer, NBAD)
– Promising shooter with soft touch (SI, Ringer)
– Advanced handle (Ringer, NBAD)
– Intriguing defensive potential due to combination of length and athleticism (Ringer, NBAD)
– Good perimeter scorer (NBAD)
– Good court vision (NBAD)
– Excellent speed with the ball and good first step (NBAD)

Weaknesses
– Needs to add strength (SI, Ringer, NBAD)
– Low release on jumpshot (Ringer, NBAD)
– Has a long way to go before reaching his significant potential (SI)
– Occasionally streaky as a shooter (SI)
– Skinny frame hurts when finishing and attempting to draw fouls (Ringer)
– Settles too frequently and forces shots rather than distributing (Ringer)
– Inconsistent effort and focus on defense (Ringer)
– Could improve as a facilitator (NBAD)


ELIE OKOBO

NBAD = 27
Ringer = 19
SI = 38

Position: Guard
Height (with shoes): 6’2″
Wingspan: 6’8″
Age: 20.67

Okobo is Musa’s primary competition for the Draft’s title of second best international prospect. His stock has been on the rise a bit lately. Okobo may wind up out of the Celtics’ range if he continues to build momentum moving forward.

Strengths
– Quick, effective ball handler (SI, Ringer)
– Excels scoring off the bounce (SI, NBAD)
– Good length (SI, Ringer, NBAD)
– Sound defensive instincts (SI, Ringer, NBAD)
– Impressive shooter off the dribble (Ringer, NBAD)
– Good spot up shooter (Ringer, NBAD)
– Explosive leaper in open court setting (Ringer, NBAD)
– Solid passer capable of making basic reads (SI, Ringer, NBAD)
– Solid shooting mechanics (SI)
– Active cutter off the ball (Ringer)
– Skilled finisher at the rim (Ringer)
– Capable of playing both guard spots (NBAD)
– Threat in every way possible when playing in the pick-and-roll (NBAD)
– Has the tools to become a lockdown defender (NBAD)

Weaknesses
– Shot selection needs improvement (SI, Ringer, NBAD)
– Streaky shooter (Ringer, NBAD)
– Turns the ball over too frequently (SI, Ringer, NBAD)
– Handle needs tightening (Ringer)
– Slightly low release on jump shot (Ringer)
– Inconsistent on-ball defender (Ringer, NBAD)
– Needs to prove he can play within a system (Ringer)
– Lacks elite first step, burst, and athleticism (Ringer)
– Needs to improve consistency as an off-ball defender (NBAD)
– Not overly explosive (NBAD)
– Effort, focus, and impact are up-and-down (NBAD)
– Has trouble finishing through traffic at the rim (NBAD)


JEROME ROBINSON

NBAD = 19
Ringer = 37
SI = 27

Position: Guard
Height (with shoes): 6’5″
Wingspan: 6’7.25″
Age: 21.33

The Celtics haven’t been publicly linked to Robinson, but have had plenty of chances to see him up close if they wanted. He played his college ball just down the road at Boston College. Robinson is a skilled scorer, capable of playing both on and off the ball.

Strengths
– Has the potential to play on and off the ball (SI, The Ringer)
– Great ability to change speeds (SI, Ringer)
– Productive, three-level scorer (SI)
– Good shake to his game (SI)
– Tight ball handler with a deep bag of tricks (Ringer)
– Capable scorer at the rim (Ringer)
– Great spot-up shooter (Ringer)
– Serviceable passer (Ringer)
– Solid defender at both guard spots (Ringer)

Weaknesses
– Needs to add strength (SI)
– Not a game-changing bucket getter (Ringer)
– Average finisher against length and athleticism (Ringer)
– Forces the issue at times instead of making simple plays (Ringer)
– Inconsistent effort on defense, especially off-ball (Ringer)


JALEN BRUNSON

NBAD = 26
Ringer = 32
SI = 30

Position: Guard
Height (with shoes): 6’2.25″
Wingspan: 6’4″
Age: 21.83

Brunson doesn’t have star potential, but he’s basically a ready-made backup NBA point guard already. Boston hasn’t been linked to the two-time national champion, but for a team ready to compete in the present day, snagging a player capable of contributing immediately makes some sense. Whether or not getting that player at the point guard position is a logical choice from the Celtics’ perspective is another matter.

Strengths
– Elite feel for the game (SI, Ringer, NBAD)
– Reliable jump shooter catching and shooting and shooting off the bounce (SI, Ringer)
– Deception, change of pace, and footwork make up for lack of agility (Ringer, NBAD)
– Track record of winning (SI, NBAD)
– Crafty (SI, NBAD)
– Composed and mature (SI)
– Willing and capable passer (Ringer, NBAD)
– Advanced post player (Ringer)
– Works hard defensively (Ringer)
– Good rebounder for his position (Ringer)
– Strong leader (NBAD)
– Likes to push the tempo and is constantly looking ahead on the break (NBAD)

Weaknesses
– Defending NBA-caliber athletes may prove challenging (SI, NBAD)
– Average athlete (SI, Ringer)
– Average size (SI)
– Lacks elusiveness (Ringer)
– Struggles chasing shooters through screens away from the ball (Ringer)
– Likely only a single position defender (NBAD)
– Over dribbles at times (NBAD)


JOSH OKOGIE

NBAD = 36
Ringer = 17
SI = 28

Position: Wing
Height (with shoes): 6’4.5″
Wingspan: 7’0″
Age: 19.75

Boston held a work out with Okogie back in early May. The Georgia Tech product’s stock has been rising since that point, thanks in large part to an impressive showing at the Combine. Okogie is a big, athletic wing with the potential to grow into a capable shooter, one of the Celtics’ favorite prospect archetypes.

Strengths
– Versatile defender (Ringer, SI)
– Excellent strength, muscular frame (Ringer, SI)
– Great agility (Ringer, SI)
– Strong help defender (Ringer)
– Good rebounder for his position (Ringer)
– Strong potential as a shooter (Ringer)
– Capable of hitting one-dribble pullups and stepbacks (Ringer)
– Intelligent cutter (Ringer)
– Applies athleticism to force steals defensively (SI)

Weaknesses
– Low shooting release (Ringer)
– Struggles to finish with contact (Ringer)
– Only an average passer (Ringer)
– Lacks advanced handle (Ringer)
– Not capable of running pick-and-roll at a high level (Ringer)
– Average feel for the game and shot selection (SI)
– Prone to mental mistakes and poor body language (SI)
– Effort waxes and wanes (SI)


KEITA BATES-DIOP

NBAD = 35
Ringer = 23
SI = 34

Position: Wing
Height (with shoes): 6’8.5″
Wingspan: 7’3.25″
Age: 22.33

A four-year college player, Bates-Diop is a more fully developed player than many of his peers. He possesses good size and skill, but somewhat limited athletic tools. The Celtics have not been reported to have met with him, but it isn’t hard to envision him filling a role similar to that which Marcus Morris played during the 2017-18 campaign.

Strengths
– Skilled post player (NBAD, Ringer, (SI)
– Elite shot blocking (NBAD, Ringer)
– Potential multi-positional player on both ends of the court (NBAD, Ringer)
– Good touch by the basket (Ringer, SI)
– Excellent length (NBAD)
– Good speed in transition (NBAD)
– Unafraid of physicality (NBAD)
– High level of maturity (NBAD)
– Solid shooter (Ringer)
– Productive, natural rebounder (Ringer)

Weaknesses
– Potentially a little slow to be a pure wing and a little small to be a pure big (Ringer, SI)
– At 22, is slightly older than many fellow prospects (NBAD,SI)
– Needs to develop as a ball handler (NBAD)
– Not skilled enough to be more than a third or fourth option on offense (NBAD)
– Limited athlete (SI)
– Streaky shooter (NBAD)
– Took a long time to develop during his collegiate career (NBAD)
– Underwent surgery for stress fracture in leg in 2017 (Ringer)
– Shows questionable toughness at times (Ringer)
– Limited first step (Ringer)


OMARI SPELLMAN

NBAD = 22
Ringer = 37
SI = 37

Position: Big
Height (with shoes): 6’9.25″
Wingspan: 7’2″
Age: 20.92

Spellman is skilled big man with a developing body. He’s slimmed down considerably since graduating high school and is growing into some newfound athleticism because of it. The Celtics invited him to work out with fellow Villanova Wildcat Donte DiVincenzo, though the big man wasn’t reported to have been taken out to lunch like the Big Ragu.

Strengths
– Skilled shooter, though mechanics are funky (SI, Ringer, NBAD)
– Strong enough to bang on the block (Ringer, NBAD)
– Has trimmed down considerably since graduating high school (SI, Ringer)
– Smart passer (SI, Ringer)
– Competitive rebounder (Ringer, NBAD)
– Good shot blocker with long reach (Ringer, NBAD)
– Smart screener and capable pick and pop partner (Ringer)
– Hardworking defender who understands positioning (Ringer)
– Cerebral game (SI)
– Light on his feet for a man of his size (NBAD)
– Comfortable playing a support role (NBAD)

Weaknesses
– Limited post game, takes pressure off defenders by facing up too frequently (Ringer, NBAD)
– Subpar free throw shooter (Ringer, NBAD)
– At age 21, is slightly older than many fellow prospects (Ringer, NBAD)
– Bites on pump fakes too frequently (Ringer)
– Lacks explosiveness scoring on the interior (Ringer)
– Struggles to defend smaller, quicker players on switches, though not for lack of effort (Ringer)
– Needs to continue developing body (Ringer)
– Never proven capable of being a big time scorer (NBAD)
– Prone to making silly mistakes that lead to foul trouble (NBAD)


DE’ANTHONY MELTON

NBAD = 44
Ringer = 28
SI = 25

Position: Guard
Height (with shoes): 6’3.25″
Wingspan: 6’8.5″
Age: 20.8

Melton had to sit out all of last season due to the FBI’s NCCA probe. That makes judging his value a bit of a challenge, but his theoretical on-court identity – as a hardworking defensive grinder – is one that has certainly been plenty appealing to Boston’s front office throughout the years.

Strengths
– Possesses good defensive instincts (NBAD, Ringer)
– Excellent defensive effort and fundamentals (Ringer, SI)
– Good court vision, particularly on the break (NBAD, Ringer)
– Very good rebounder (NBAD, Ringer)
– Has the quickness, speed, and leaping ability to play in the NBA (NBAD, SI)
– Tremendous open court speed (NBAD)
– Good length (NBAD)
– Good first step (NBAD)
– Capable of making smart reads after breaking down defense (NBAD)
– Ambidextrous finisher at the rim (Ringer)

Weaknesses
– Missed last season after having to sit out due to FBI probe (NBAD, Ringer, SI)
– Limited scoring production in college (NBAD, SI)
– Needs to add strength (NBAD, Ringer)
– Handle not sufficient to function as a primary ball handler (Ringer, SI)
– Needs to extend shooting ability beyond three-point arc (NBAD)
– Right-hand dependent (NBAD)
– Inconsistent footwork shooting the ball (Ringer)


BRUCE BROWN

NBAD = 42
Ringer = 40
SI = 26

Position: Guard/Wing
Height (with shoes): 6’5″
Wingspan: 6’9″
Age: 21.83

Brown projects as a capable defensive player and something of an unknown on the offensive end of the court. The Celtics haven’t been reported to have shown much interest, but that doesn’t preclude the possibility of them selecting him. A Dorchester native, Brown would be at home in Boston.

Strength
– Versatile defender (Ringer, SI)
– Good strength, length, and speed (Ringer, SI)
– Hard-working, intelligent help defender (Ringer)
– Good rebounder for his position (Ringer)
– Effective pick-and-roll ball handler (Ringer)
– Capable of playing off-ball offensively (Ringer)

Weaknesses
– Inconsistent shooter with inconsistent form (Ringer, SI)
– Underwent surgery that prematurely ended sophomore season (Ringer)
– Limited touch throws potential as shooter into questions (Ringer)
– Average ball handler, lacking burst (Ringer)
– Lacks shot creation ability against set defenses (Ringer)
– At 22, is slightly older than many fellow prospects (SI)


JEVON CARTER

NBAD = 46
Ringer = 41
SI = 30

Position: Guard
Height (with shoes): 6’1.5″
Wingspan: 6’4.25″
Age: 22.67

If ever there were a player that Danny Ainge would fall in love with in this year’s draft it’s Jevon Carter. He’s a bundle of strong, surly, energy, determined to break his opponents’ will defensively. Unfortunately he’s a touch undersized and plays a position that’s fully stocked on Boston’s depth chart. Carter isn’t big enough to play anywhere but the point.

Strengths
– Projects to be a plus defender and will be a reliable defender from day one (NBAD, Ringer, SI)
– Incredibly tough and relentless (NBAD, Ringer, SI)
– Effective penetrating and kicking out to shooters (NBAD, Ringer)
– High-level shooter with three-point range (NBAD, Ringer)
– Good leader and tireless worker (NBAD, Ringer)
– Above average athlete (NBAD)
– Strong hands and quick reflexes help generate steals (NBAD)
– Excels pushing the ball off rebounds (NBAD)
– Crafty, capable scorer by the basket (NBAD)

Weaknesses
– Undersized for an NBA point guard (NBAD, Ringer, SI)
– Limited length (NBAD, Ringer, SI)
– Larger players will be able to shot over him (NBAD)
– May struggle to get shots off against larger players (NBAD)
– At 23, is older than many fellow prospects (NBAD)
– Average ball handler, lacking explosive first step (Ringer)
– Has trouble finishing around the rim (Ringer)


RAWLE ALKINS

NBAD = 52
Ringer = 31
SI = 35

Position: Guard/Wing
Height (with shoes): 6’4.25″
Wingspan: 6’8.75″
Age: 20.58

Alkins is a powerful guard who possesses just enough size to project as a capable wing defender. He needs to improve as a shooter, but has an intriguing blend of athleticism, strength, and motor. Boston was reported to have conducted a workout with Alkins in early June.

Strengths
– Great frame that’s already filled out (NBAD, Ringer, SI)
– Combination of quick feet and strength make him an interesting prospect defensively (NBAD, Ringer)
– Strong, acrobatic finisher (NBAD, SI)
– Solid motor (Ringer, SI)
– Good ball handler (NBAD)
– Good rebounder for his position (NBAD)
– Flashes potential shooting off the bounce (Ringer)
– Good first step attacking closeouts (Ringer)
– Adept passer who keeps the ball moving (Ringer)

Weaknesses
– Plays out of control at times (NBAD, Ringer)
– Not a great shooter (NBAD)
– Shot selection could improve (NBAD)
– Doesn’t have great length (NBAD)
– Can be a lazy, low-effort defender at times (NBAD)
– Underwent surgery for broken bone in right foot in 2017 (Ringer, SI)
– Settles for floaters too frequently (Ringer)
– Could get better as a cutter (Ringer)


GRAYSON ALLEN

Position: Guard
Height (with shoes): 6’4.5″
Wingspan: 6’7.25″
Age: 22.58

Allen is an irritant of the highest order whose aggressiveness often times boarders on dirty play. He’s got the athleticism and game to stick in the NBA, and Boston’s front office – with Ainge at the helm – is one that’s likely to turn a blind eye on questionable activity conducted in the name of competitiveness.

Strengths
– Capable three-point shooter (SI, Ringer, NBAD)
– Tough competitor with high-energy style of play (SI, Ringer, NBAD)
– Good rebounder for his position (Ringer, NBAD)
– Very good athlete (SI)
– Possesses excellent footwork, particularly when navigating screens (Ringer)
– Aggressive attacking closeouts (Ringer)
– Solid passer who improved as a playmaker during college career (Ringer)

Weaknesses
– Flat-footed perimeter defender who lacks lateral quickness (Ringer, NBAD)
– Athleticism doesn’t always translate on the court (SI)
– First step needs improvement (Ringer)
– Settles for floaters rather than getting to the rim too often (Ringer)
– Peaked as a collegiate player two years ago (Ringer)
– Lacks ideal size (NBAD)
– Not much of a creator with the ball in his hands (NBAD)


BRANDON MCCOY

NBAD = 29
Ringer = 57
SI = 55

Position: Big
Height (with shoes): 7’0.5″
Wingspan: 7’2″
Age: 20.0

Boston hasn’t been linked to McCoy publicly, and taking him at 27 might be something of a reach, but the Celtics love bigs with shooting potential and McCoy fits that bill.

Strengths
– Reliable scorer in the paint with good touch by the basket (NBAD, Ringer, SI)
– Extended shooting range (NBAD, Ringer)
– Good motor (NBAD, Ringer)
– Good rebounder (NBAD, Ringer, SI)
– Quality shot blocker with potential as rim-protector (NBAD, Ringer)
– Communicates well with teammates (NBAD)
– Solid length (NBAD)
– Can score in one-on-one situations in the post (NBAD)

Weaknesses
– Picks up unnecessary fouls on defense (NBAD, Ringer)
– Struggles to defend the pick-and-roll (Ringer, SI)
– All right hand with no go-to move (NBAD, SI)
– Needs to develop overall feel for the game (NBAD, Ringer)
– Lacks length needed to be elite defensively (Ringer)
– Skill set is still raw (NBAD)
– Not incredibly fluid as an athlete (NBAD)
– Struggles with double teams (NBAD)
– Doesn’t finish well through contact he doesn’t initiate (NBAD)
– Shot selection could improve (NBAD)
– Not a great ball handler, doesn’t shoot well off the bounce (NBAD)
– Subpar defensive instincts (Ringer)
– Not a great passer (Ringer)


In the event of a trade…

Boston was rumored to be interested in moving up to the top of the draft to select Texas big man Mo Bamba. The validity of that interest has since been disputed, but the Celtics have plenty of assets to get themselves a higher-end pick if any top prospects tickle their fancy.

The following are all of the players that project as high picks that Boston has been reported to have conducted pre-Draft interviews with. We’ve exlcuded the rest of this year’s top prospects for the sake of brevity.


JAREN JACKSON JR.

NBAD = 3
Ringer = 3
SI = 3

Position: Big
Height (with shoes): 6’11.25″
Wingspan: 7’5.25″
Age: 18.67

Landing a pick high enough to nab Jackson would cost Boston a fortune, but he’s tailor-made for the Celtics’ system. He’s a versatile defender, capable of  both switching onto smaller players and defending the rim. Add in the fact that he projects to be a reliable floor spacer, and there’s a lot to like about the way Jackson could function in Boston.

Strengths
– Ambidextrous finisher with nice touch around the basket (NBAD, Ringer, SI)
– Good shot blocker with strong sense of timing (NBAD, Ringer, SI)
– Solid shooter who is a capable pick-and-pop player (NBAD, Ringer, SI)
– Effective switching onto guards and wings (Ringer, SI)
– Great defensive potential (NBAD, SI)
– Capable of putting the ball on the deck in straight line drive situations (NBAD, Ringer)
– Excellent length (NBAD)
– Good hands (NBAD)
– Good rebounder on both ends (NBAD)
– Rotates well defensively (NBAD)
– Willing screener (NBAD)

Weaknesses
– Low release on shot (NBAD, Ringer, SI)
– Needs to add strength (NBAD, Ringer, SI)
– Post game is raw (NBAD, Ringer)
– In consistent rebounder, lacking in physicality boxing out (Ringer)
– Lacks technique by the basket (NBAD)
– Doesn’t handle double teams well (NBAD)
– Can improve finishing, particularly through contact (NBAD)
– Handle is too loose and has tendency to go left too often (Ringer)
– Fouls frequently (SI)


MO BAMBA


Position: Big
Height (with shoes): 7’0.75″
Wingspan: 7’10”
Age: 20.08

Bamba has unfathomable length and exceptional athleticism. He’s also got enough touch to have many talent evaluators believing that he could one day turn into Rudy Gobert with a jump shot. That’s an exceptionally tantalizing player. Apparently enough so to start the wave of speculation that the Celtics might want to trade up in the Draft in the first place.

Strengths
– Tremendous length (NBAD, Ringer, SI)
– Lateral quickness/Mobility (NBAD, Ringer, SI)
– Excellent coordination translates to shot blocking ability (NBAD, Ringer)
– Decent foundation as a shooter with relatively sound mechanics (NBAD, SI)
– Very intelligent away from the court (NBAD, Ringer)
– Good rebounder (NBAD)
– Wide shoulders could add muscle (NBAD)
– Ambidextrous finisher (Ringer)

Weaknesses
– Very thin and vulnerable to getting pushed around (NBAD, Ringer, SI)
– Occasionally lacking in intensity (Ringer, SI)
– In need of development as a post scorer (Ringer, SI)
– Has potential to grow as shooter, but hasn’t realized it yet (Ringer, SI)
– Limited offensive awareness (NBAD)
– Passive on offense at times (NBAD)
– Not a quick leaper (Ringer)
– Poor screener (Ringer)


MICHAEL PORTER JR.

NBAD = 4
Ringer = 6
SI = 7

Position: Wing
Height (with shoes): 6’11.5″
Wingspan: 7’0.25″
Age: 19.95

Porter was once considered the best prospect in his class. A serious back injury and subsequent surgery have cast some doubt on his future ceiling, but when he’s right there’s a lot to like about him. Porter has excellent size and projects as go-to scorer capable of getting buckets from all over the court.

Strengths
– Polished scorer (SI, NBA Draft.net)
– Good jump shooter with size to shoot over the top of most defenders (SI, Ringer, NBAD)
– Good length and quickness (Ringer, NBAD)
– Potential to grow into versatile defender (Ringer, NBAD)
– Good ball handler in the open floor (Ringer)
– Effective off-ball player on offense (Ringer)
– Plays with confidence and has a short memory (Ringer)

Weaknesses
– Long-term injury concerns after back injury forced him to miss almost all of last year (SI, Ringer, NBAD)
– Limited playmaking ability (SI, Ringer)
– Uninspiring defender (SI, NBAD)
– Lacks advanced ball handling skills (Ringer, NBAD)
– Questionable physicality (Ringer, NBAD)
– Needs to prove he can score efficiently (Ringer)
– Frustrating shot selection (Ringer)
– Poor rebounder for his size (Ringer)


WENDELL CARTER JR.

NBAD = 9
Ringer = 7
SI = 6

Position: Big
Height (with shoes): 6’10”
Wingspan: 7’4.5″
Age: 19.17

Carter might be slightly more attainable than his highly-touted peers. He lacks some of the mobility that Boston tends to value in its bigs, but the diversity of his offensive skill set and general size still hold plenty of value.

Strength
– Skilled, well-rounded post player (SI, Ringer, NBAD)
– Excellent rebounder (Ringer, NBAD, SI)
– Unafraid of playing through contact (SI, NBAD)
– Capable passer (SI, NBAD)
– Good feel for the game (SI, Ringer, NBAD)
– Good hands (Ringer, NBAD)
– Elevates quickly on layups and putbacks (Ringer, NBAD)
– Good shooter with smooth mechanics (Ringer, SI, NBAD)
– Excellent size and length make him an effective interior defender (Ringer, NBAD)
– Able to contest shots effectively (SI)
– Fluid laterally (Ringer)
– Runs the floor consistently (NBAD)
– Can attack off the bounce in straight line drive situations (NBAD)

Weaknesses
– Lacks elite explosiveness (SI, Ringer, NBAD)
– Limited foot speed (SI, NBAD)
– Struggles defending ball screens at times (SI)
– Suffered an undisclosed foot injury (Ringer)
– Has a hitch in his jumper that keeps him from shooting well off the bounce (Ringer)
– Needs to slow down mentally (Ringer)
– Bites on too many pump fakes (Ringer)
– Isn’t very quick reacting on defense and closing out to shooters (NBAD)
– Tries to attack set defenses too often (NBAD)
– May add excess weight if staying in shape isn’t an emphasis (NBAD)


TRAE YOUNG

NBAD = 8
Ringer = 9
SI = 8

Position: Guard
Height (with shoes): 6’1.75″
Wingspan: 6’3″
Age: 19.75

Young is one of the more polarizing players in the draft. He’s a good enough shooter to have drawn comparisons to Steph Curry, but he’s not on that level. Young is good enough, however, to be a serious offensive threat. How he’d fit in Boston is unclear, but any chance you’ve got to talk with a player capable of draining 35-foot bombs off the bounce seems like time relatively well spent.

Strengths
– Limitless shooting range (NBAD, Ringer, SI)
– Advanced ability as a pick-and-roll ball handler (NBAD, Ringer, SI)
– Uses threat of jumper to get passed defenders off the bounce effectively (NBAD, SI)
– Strong floater game (NBAD, Ringer)
– Good passer with great vision in the halfcourt and transition (NBAD, Ringer)
– Crafty finisher by the basket (NBAD)
– Advanced ball handler (Ringer)
– Can make shots off of complex dribble moves (NBAD)
– Potential offensive weapon on and off the ball (Ringer)

Weaknesses
– Does not have ideal size or length (NBAD, Ringer)
– Lacks explosiveness needed to finish against NBA length and athleticism (NBAD, Ringer)
– Poor shot selection (NBAD, Ringer)
– Nearly a liability on defense (NBAD, Ringer, SI)
– Low-effort, lazy defender (NBAD, Ringer)
– Needs to add strength (NBAD, Ringer, SI)
– Low release point on jumper (Ringer)
– Occasionally makes passes that are too risky (NBAD)


COLLIN SEXTON

NBAD = 12
Ringer = 12
SI = 11

Position: Guard
Height (with shoes): 6’1.5″
Wingspan: 6’7.25″
Age: 19.42

Sexton is the kind of maniacal competitor that the Celtics seem to love, but Boston doesn’t need a lead guard at the moment. It’s possible they simply kicked the tires as a means of getting to know Sexton for future personnel decision making purposes.

Strengths
– Unafraid of big moments (SI, Ringer, NBAD)
– Good scorer, capable of finishing through contact (SI, NBAD)
– Draws fouls and shoots well from the stripe (Ringer, NBAD)
– Has a relaxed jumper with NBA range (Ringer, NBAD)
– Plays with physicality, aggressiveness, and athleticism (Ringer, NBAD)
– Hard worker (SI, Ringer)
– Has the tools to become a lockdown defender (SI, NBAD)
– Shifty ball handler with quick first step (Ringer, NBAD)
– Aggressive, ambidextrous finisher (Ringer)
– Good athlete (SI)
– Stays engaged defending off ball (Ringer)
– Good enough vision to run the point in the NBA (NBAD)

Weaknesses
– Struggles to make teammates better (SI, Ringer)
– Forces both passes and shots at times (Ringer, NBAD)
– Lacks pure passing skills (Ringer, NBAD)
– Focus waxes and wanes (SI)
– Relatively ineffective three-point shooter (SI)
– Needs to prove he can play within a system (Ringer)
– Needs to add strength without losing quickness (Ringer)
– Could add an element of finesse to his game (NBAD)
– More of a streaky shooter than pure knockdown threat (NBAD)

A few other names…
Boston doesn’t have any second round selections this year, but that doesn’t mean they won’t by the night of the Draft. They’ve worked out a handful of players that project to get picked in the latter half of the evening (or not at all).

Included on that list are Brian Bowen, Desi Rodriguez, Elijah Bryant, Jared Terrell, Jacob Evans, Billy Preston, Deng Adel, Jeffrey Carroll, and Kenrich Williams.



bob


.

Only one on the list that makes sense to me at #27 is McCoy. Who knows what makes sense to the Boston front office? Those guys haven't asked my opinion since...well, never... Only in my dreams.

I think Allen or possibly DiVincenzo or Bates-Diop might fit the picture if Boston is contemplating dealing a wing, or think they might lose Smart.

Very detailed list of possibly draftees. Nicely done and thanks, bob, for posting it.

This summer is a total mystery to most of us (especially me) at this point. I hope that Ainge is not as
confused as he has made me.

I get the sense that this is a draft where there may be a bigger difference between 13 and 16 than 16 and 36

Ragu or McCoy...

my ideas on draftees possible top end NBA comparisons (if they pan out up to their potential), Most of these come from various draft website profiles and are only to show what each players POSSIBLE potential could be as an NBA player.

DeAndre Ayton---7-0 --------Karl Anthony-Towns
Marvin Bagley----6-11--------Chris Bosh
Jaren Jackson Jr--6-11-------Serge Ibaka
Luka Doncic-------6-7 -------Manu Ginobili
Mohamed Bamba---7-0------Tyson Chandler
Trae Young---------6-2-------Mike Bibby
Michael Porter-----6-10------Danilo Gallinari
Mikal Bridges------6-7--------Otto Porter
Wendell Carter-----6-10------Al Horford
Colin Sexton-------6-2-------Eric Bledsoe
Lonnie Walker------6-4-------Ben Gordon
Kevin Knox---------6-9--------Jeff Green
Shai Gilgeous- Alexander--6-6---Jordan Clarkson
Miles Bridges-------6-7-------Jerome Kersey
Robert Williams----6-9--------Clint Capela
Zhaire Smith-------6-5--------Danny Green
Troy Brown---------6-7--------Morris Peterson
Elie Okobo---------6-2---------Deron Williams
Chandler Hutchison--6-7------Jared Dudley
Donte DiVincenzo---6-4-------Courtney Lee
Khyri Thomas-------6-3--------Avery Bradley
Kevin Huerter-------6-7--------Allan Crabbe
Keita Bates-Diop----6-7--------Luc Mbah a Moute
Mitchell Robinson----7-1--------Willie Cauley-Stein

Jalen Brunson-------6-2---------Derek Fisher
Dzanan Musa-------6-9----------Bogdan Bogdanovic
Gary Trent Jr--------6-6---------Buddy Hield
Omari Spellman-----6-9---------Brandan Bass
Aaron Holiday--------6-1---------Lindsey Hunter
Jacob Evans----------6-6---------Wes Matthews
Jerome Robinson----6-5----------Jamal Crawford
Anfernee Simons----6-3----------Darren Collison
De'Anthony Melton---6-3---------Marcus Smart
Josh Okogie----------6-4----------Tony Allen
Moritz Wagner-------6-11---------Kelly Olynyk
Melvin Frazier--------6-5----------Kent Bazemore
Grayson Allen--------6-5----------Danny Ainge
Jevon Carter---------6-2-----------Tyler Johnson
Rodions Kurucs------6-8-----------Chandler Parsons
Bruce Brown---------6-5-----------Jonathan Simmons
Landry Shamet------6-4-----------Grevis Vasquez
Trevon Duval--------6-2------------Ramon Sessions
Shake Milton---------6-6-----------George Hill
Jared Vanderbilt------6-9----------Al- Faroug Aminu
Kevin Hervey---------6-8-----------TJ Warren
Chimezie Metu-------6-10---------Gorgui Deng
Isaac Bonga---------6-9-----------Shaun Livingston
Hamidou Diallo-------6-5----------Iman Shumpert
Rawle Aikins---------6-4-----------Andre Roberson
Devonte Graham-----6-2-----------TJ MCConnell
Justin Jackson-------6-7-----------Richard Jefferson
Brandon McCoy------7-0-----------Erick Dampier
Tony Carr-------------6-5----------Rodney Stuckey

Interesting Danny comparison. He was a pest, too.

KyleCleric wrote:Interesting Danny comparison. He was a pest, too.

haha, I snuck that one in there to see if anyone was paying attention

Bonga is an intriguing prospect. Biggest issue is shooting but he's shot well from the line

The more I look at this years draft, the more it makes sense that there are only two ways to go for Boston.

1. A big trade package using this years #27, future picks, and players from a group including Brown and Rozier to move up significantly.

Or

2. Trading down into the second round, sacrificing #27 and maybe some miscellaneous parts to pick up a couple of second rounders (credit: trading down is something originally mentioned as a possibility, around here, by dboss).

With the type of bigs we need either gone by #7, or perhaps falling well into round 2, why keep #27?

NYCelt wrote:The more I look at this years draft, the more it makes sense that there are only two ways to go for Boston.

1. A big trade package using this years #27, future picks, and players from a group including Brown and Rozier to move up significantly.

Or

2. Trading down into the second round, sacrificing #27 and maybe some miscellaneous parts to pick up a couple of second rounders (credit: trading down is something originally mentioned as a possibility, around here, by dboss).

With the type of bigs we need either gone by #7, or perhaps falling well into round 2, why keep #27?

I'd be interested in seeing some of your comps for the rookies this year, if you think is such ways of course.

First round picks have guaranteed contracts, cost more per season and are signed for more years. Relatively higher cost with longer time under team control.

Second round pick contracts are not guaranteed, cost less per season and are signed for less years. Relatively lower cost with shorter time under team control.

If the second round pick player pans out, his next contract comes sooner and his future higher salary also comes sooner.

It's all a balancing act with pros and cons going forward.