The Boston Celtics have maintained a strong presence in the NBA, yet their postseason performance earlier this year was disappointing. They exited the NBA playoffs in the first round against the Philadelphia 76ers. This was unexpected, largely due to inconsistent performance. Their struggles with 3-point attempts stood out as a significant drawback.
However, the Celtics excelled in the NBA draft. According to Ben Golliver of ESPN, the Celtics earned an A- for their draft picks. Boston chose Chris Cenac Jr. at No. 27 and Dillon Mitchell at No. 40. These selections are strategic in addressing issues from the playoffs.
Chris Cenac Jr. is noted as a potential solution for the Celtics’ needs. Standing 6-foot-11 and weighing 240 pounds, he is seen as a versatile player who can fill gaps in the Celtics’ frontcourt, which was exposed by the 76ers. Golliver states that Cenac may face developmental stages to reach his full potential.
Why Boston’s Picks Stand Out
Despite not having early picks, securing Cenac at No. 27 was considered a wise decision. His potential was recognized by Boston, particularly his ability to improve their 3-point game. During his time at the University of Houston, Cenac had a 3-point shooting percentage of 33.3%, a commendable figure for a freshman.
Given time, Cenac might evolve into a 3-point asset, adding depth and alleviating pressure on key players. His growth will be closely watched as he integrates into the Celtics’ roster.