Subscribe
Follow Us
Despite being believed to be the consensus top pick in this year’s draft, Markelle Fultz may not end up being selected by the Boston Celtics.
The C’s are apparently considering taking Kansas swingman Josh Jackson with the first overall pick, as they are intrigued with his two-way skill set and what he can bring to their team. According to a general manager in a piece made by ESPN’s Chad Ford, he believes they will pass on Fultz, based on the fit, and how team president Danny Ainge thinks.
“I've picked Danny's brain for years,” the general manager said. “Jackson is an Ainge player all the way. Tough, athletic, long, versatile, elite motor. If he's keeping the pick, Jackson just to me, far and away, is the most Celtics-type player for them to draft. From all my conversations with them, I'm convinced they'll take Jackson No. 1.”
With Fultz also being a point guard, the Celtics may not be convinced that he can play shooting guard alongside Isaiah Thomas. It is also no secret that they lack depth at the small forward position, which Jackson can bolster as he is a natural at the three spot. His combination of size, length, and ability to defend multiple positions is something the team needs and could pay dividends for them starting next season should they add him.
Trading down could be an option but the Los Angeles Lakers‘ reluctance to lock in on someone at number two makes it very tricky for Ainge and the rest of Boston's think tank. After all, this could be just a smokescreen.
It remains a mystery who the C’s will ultimately take in next week’s lottery, but it is also worth noting that Fultz had a positive visit to Boston and that Jackson declined a workout with them. The coming days will be very busy for the team and their next moves could reveal which player they’re leaning on picking.
