The Boston Celtics’ season may have ended in utter despair, but their past dealings granted them three first-round picks in the 2019 NBA Draft.
While it’s possible they could put those assets toward a trade for another superstar such as Anthony Davis or Mike Conley, they will likely be scouring the field for at least one more key component to their bench rotation. Pick Nos. 14, 20 and 22 all currently belong to the Celtics on June 20.
KZ Okpala, Stanford
Okpala is one of the most tantalizing, albeit underrated newcomers in this class. A mere two seasons at Stanford were all he needed to apprise the scouts. He quickly became the focal point of coach Jerod Haase’s offensive ecosystem — leading the Cardinal in scoring with 16.8 points per game as a sophomore this year, earning him first-team all-Pac-12 honors. He will also become the first player in school history to enter the NBA before his junior year since Brook Lopez and Robin Lopez.
Strengths
Okpala’s age, and the extent of his growth are certainly enticing characteristics to NBA organizations. He already cavorts to the basket as good as any guard/forward in the league, and is a brawny finisher through traffic.
An explosive athlete with a 6-foot-8 frame, his promise as a two-way dynamo is looming. He was serene at handling the basketball last season, and oftentimes maneuvered around a defense to create for teammates. We’ll see if he can carry that into the more fast-paced pro game.
Weaknesses
Though his activity on the offensive end is sound — defensively, he’s a bit askew. With such size and length, his career 1.0 steals and 0.5 blocks per game at the collegiate level is quite bland. His athleticism alone could easily keep him employed in the league for the duration of his rookie contract, but his overt basketball prowess could expedite his long-term value. He just needs to rectify the blase aspect of it.
Overview
Okpala could potentially be selected within the lottery. However, there is also a scenario in which he could slide as far down as pick No. 20, in what has the makings of a crapshoot-like draft. He would provide instant wing depth behind Gordon Hayward and Jayson Tatum.
