10 prospects the Boston Celtics might consider with the No. 53 pick of the 2022 NBA draft

Depending on whether they’d prefer a player able to help now or a project down the road, there are some interesting options that could be had at No. 53.

The Boston Celtics are finding their ball club tied to a number of rumors about the 2022 NBA draft, but at least for now only have one selection to make. That pick is a late one, the No. 53 pick in the draft’s second round, after trading away their own first-round pick in the deal that brought reserve guard Derrick White to the team.

The Celtics could very well follow the path of any of the rumors that might see them acquire a first-rounder currently percolating through the NBA media, but unless a significant move ends up happening, they’ll have that late second to add some talent to the team. With designs on contending for the 2023 NBA championship, they will have their work cut out for them finding a prospect able to contribute to such lofty goals.

But that doesn’t mean it’s impossible — nor does it rule out stashing a player or having them spend a season or two in the G League for the bulk of the year. Let’s take a look at some of the players who could make sense for Boston with the 53rd overall pick.