It’s time to prepare for the NBA Draft after the Boston Celtics ended their once promising season with a humbling 4-1 semifinals loss to Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks.
Fortunately, the Celtics do have the 14th pick in the June 20 draft via the Sacramento Kings as part of trade. They have plenty of options at that spot that could be viable options for Boston, so we here at Celtics Wire will begin to take a look at some potential options.
P.J. Washington, Kentucky
Washington is a 6-foot-8, 228 pound, power forward who was named to the All-SEC team in his sophomore season under John Calipari. He averaged 15.2 points and 7.8 rebounds this season and he had 16 points and 28 points in two NCAA Tournament games. He missed Kentucky’s Round of 64 win over Abilene-Christian with a foot sprain.
Strengths
Washington is a highly skilled offensive player. He can score in the post as he’s able to use his wide body to get into position and he finishes well around the basket. He’s able to get to his jump hook over his left shoulder and he’s very comfortable out on the perimeter as well, a must in today’s game.
He shot 42.3 percent from deep in his sophomore season and he has a good, high release on his jumper with good mechanics. He’d be able to slide in perfectly next to a guy like Celtics veteran center Al Horford and his passing ability is impressive for a guy so young.
In the semifinals series with the Bucks, the Celtics were outrebounded 56-50 in the Game 5 loss to Milwaukee. Not a huge margin in the grand scheme of things, but Washington would be able to use his size to pull down some rebounds for Boston.
Weaknesses
While Washington has good size, he is not the most athletic guy in the world.
He will have to improve his ball-handling and shooting to make an impact long term. Washington will also have to get a little stronger in the league.
He was able to overpower guys in college, but in the NBA, he’ll meet some guys who have the strength to combat that.
Overview
While Washington is worth a look at the 14th pick, he most likely won’t be anything more than a role player. He will have a lot of developing to do and Boston might not have time for that.
