The Boston Celtics are preparing for the playoffs and another title run. However, with March Madness complete we have a clearer picture of the upcoming NBA draft, and front offices are always thinking ahead. In Benjamin Yu‘s latest mock draft, he has the Celtics draft Auburn’s Johni Broome with the 28th overall pick. Let’s explore Broome’s game and fit with the Celtics.
Projected Celtics Draft Pick Provides Needed Frontcourt Depth
Johni Broome’s Fit With the Celtics
Broome was one of the best players in college basketball this season. He averaged 18.6 points, 10.8 rebounds, 2.9 assists, and 2.1 blocks while leading Auburn to Final Four appearances. The 6-foot-10 big man was a first-team All-American and the runner-up for National Player of the Year. Despite his incredible college career, Broome will likely fall on draft boards since he is 22 and will be 23 at the time of his NBA debut. The flip side of not having as much upside is that Broome can contribute immediately which is perfect for a contending team like the Celtics. Yu notes this when discussing Broome’s fit with Boston.
“Broome has the ready-made skill set to provide the Celtics with frontcourt depth in the middle of contention.”
We’ve seen the Celtics draft experienced college players including, Baylor Scheierman last year. In addition to Broome’s experience and win-now impact being perfect for the Celtics, his skill set is needed. At 6-foot-10 Broome can comfortably play either the four or the five. He is a powerful interior scorer, rebounder, and shot blocker. Broome’s two-way abilities make an ideal fit in the Celtics’ system. Additionally, Broome is a high-IQ player and a capable playmaker; his feel for the game would help him fit into Boston’s complex system. Overall Broome’s well-rounded skill set and experience make him an ideal target for the Celtics.
Broome’s main weaknesses are his inconsistent jump shot and lack of elite athleticism. However, Boston’s roster would help cover up these concerns. The Celtics could also help Broome develop as a shooter. Even with these weaknesses, Broome could contribute at a high level from day one considering everything else he brings to the table.
The Need for More Big Man Depth
Another crucial aspect of Broome’s fit is adding frontcourt depth. With Kristaps Porziņģis‘ injury history and Al Horford‘s age/pending free agency, big-man depth will be a priority for the Celtics. Furthermore, Luke Kornet is a free agent and the Celtics may have trouble re-signing him given their cap situation. During this season, the Celtics have utilized a lot of double-big lineups, Broome’s positional versatility would be ideal for these schemes. He could also operate as a center in other lineups. Ultimately, the lineup versatility Broome offers makes one of the most intriguing Celtics draft targets.
The Last Word
Broome has commonly been linked to the Celtics. In addition to Yu’s mock draft, Bleacher Report, CBS, and FanSided have all projected Broome to be drafted by Boston. With his polished skill set and versatility, it’s easy to see why Broome would be an ideal fit with the Celtics. While it’s still early in the draft process the Celtics seem to have at least one top target.
Photo credit: © Brett Davis-Imagn Images
The post Projected Celtics Draft Pick Provides Needed Frontcourt Depth appeared first on Last Word On Basketball.