No. 26 overall (Boston’s own pick)
Gary Parrish/CBS – Josh Green, Arizona
Green is a defensive-minded shooting guard unlikely to be around this late in the draft. But if he is, he’s worth a gamble at 19 years old and 6-foot-6, with some obvious similarities to current Celtic veteran guard Marcus Smart.
And while he’s a 36.1 % 3-point shooter at the NCAA level, he could stand to improve his overall shot selection (as Smart had to), he’s a bit foul prone and not a great passer — unlike the Texan defensive specialist he resembles in some ways.
Rob Dauster/NBC Sports – Xavier Tillman, Michigan State
Another excellent defender, Tillman plays the center for the Spartans and could probably function as such in the NBA as a reserve. He passes well, too, but it seems a bit of a stretch to project him in the first round given he’s a 26.1 % shot from beyond the arc.
It’s certainly possible the Michigan State big man’s court vision is enough to make him of interest for the Milwaukee pick the Celtics control, but the likely lack of a combine or workouts won’t so his chances any favors.
Sam Vecenie/The Athletic – Vernon Carey Jr.
It’s undeniable that Carey has an incredible engine and athleticism coupled with immense strength for an 18-year-old, 6-foot-10 center. But he doesn’t shoot often (even though he’s hit 38.1% of his shots behind the arc), and relies heavily on post-ups.
He’s mobile enough to have a solid career at the next level, and while and he probably won’t be taken by anyone in the first round, it wouldn’t be a stretch to gamble on his future late in the first round, either.