Celtics Predicted To Draft 6-Foot-8 Forward Who Could Help Unleash Jayson Tatum
· Yahoo Sports
Celtics Predicted To Draft 6-Foot-8 Forward Who Could Help Unleash Jayson Tatum originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The first round of the 2026 NBA Draft is on Tuesday, and as of now, the Celtics hold the No. 27 pick, but that could change if they move it for Giannis Antetokounmpo.
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Since Antetokounmpo is still not on the Celtics, Boston has to target front-court help during the draft. Bleacher Report's Andy Bailey published a mock draft on Thursday, predicting that Boston will select Arizona's forward Koa Peat.
"There are questions about his shooting (he made seven threes all season and only shot 62.3 percent from the line), but Koa Peat's combination of size, strength and feel for the game are still intriguing," Bailey wrote. "And if he does develop a more consistent outside shot, his combination of feel and toughness could overcome the lack of top-flight athleticism."
Peat played only one season at Arizona, scoring 14.1 points and 5.6 rebounds per game. Since Peat is 6-foot-8, he could develop into the Celtics' small forward, but he will need some time.
Many people in the NBA believed that Peat should have stayed in school for another season. He may need a season or two to develop, but by 2028, he could be ready for significant playing time and potentially become a running mate to Jayson Tatum.
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