This week the NBA will hold its annual draft for the upcoming season. Once again, the Celtics went out in defeat at the hands of the Miami Heat. The Celtics failed to make clutch shots. With three picks available, we will discuss the three best possible Celtics Moves in the upcoming 2020 draft.
Best Possible Celtics Moves In The Upcoming 2020 Draft
Jalen Smith/PF/Maryland
Probably the best two_way defender in this year’s draft. He has the frame to be an exceptional NBA forward. Is known for his excellent shooting in traffic and three _pointers.
With the 14th pick, it is unlikely that Jalen Smith will be available .with his shot_ blocking. In three years at Maryland, he averaged 15ppg and 11.5 rebounds. Would be an asset off the bench as Grant Williams continues to develop. He would also provide solid defense and rebounding help.
A perfect big man which the Celtics desperately need to clog up the middle. Miami literally controlled the paint in the playoffs which cost the team the series.
Isaiah Stewart/C/Washington
Best Possible Celtics Moves In The Upcoming 2020 Draft
This talent may be worth the Celtics trading down. With Atlanta drafting 6th and Detroit 7th one of these could be a possibility. He may be the first player taken in the draft.
Ranked slightly ahead of Isaiah Stewart, Okongwu does not have too many weaknesses. The only knock on him is his three_ point shooting skills. Other than that he could make an immediate impact on an organization.
As fans recall, Tyler Herro and Bam Adebayo dominated the paint in the playoffs. If Okongwu slips in the draft he would be a gem of a pick. But the reality is he will be gone after the third selection.
In Okongwu a team is getting a gifted rim protector and defender. He has the frame of 6’9 240 lbs to be an immediate force in the NBA. Other attributes of Okongwu are his defensive skills. He creates havoc in the paint. He is an above _average free throw shooter. Also, an overpowering rebounder both offensively and defensively.
If I had my pick between Okongwu or Stewart it would have to be Okongwu. The Celtics lack a true center. Enes Kanter and Robert Williams are adequate but not dominant By drafting Okongwu the organization would have a legitimate center for the future.
Conclusion
The Celtics own the 14th,26th, and 30th picks in this year’s draft. The club needs added scoring off the bench. My best prediction would be Jalen Smith. Smith is big and physical. If the club trades down he would be a diamond in the rough. Lack of scoring wings costs the team in the playoffs. Its highly unlikely that either Smith or Okngwu will be available after the 5th pick.