Boston Celtics 2007 Draft Preview

The Celtics had the second worst record in the league in 2006-07, as they finished with a dismal 24-58 record. Unfortunately for Boston, it fell in the lottery and will pick No. 5 and won’t have the opportunity to add Greg Oden or Kevin Durant.

Forward Al Jefferson had a breakout campaign, as he posted 16.0 points and 11.0 boards in 69 contests this past season, while guard Delonte West registered 12.2 points and a club-high 4.4 assists. Ryan Gomes also had a solid showing, as he netted 12.1 and pulled down 5.6 rebounds.

There is some young talent on the Celtics roster, but its just not good enough. Pierce and Jefferson are the building blocks, and they need more help. The fifth pick will land a starting big man for the Celtics. The 6-10 Jefferson will most likely see some time in the middle during the upcoming season.

Boston would be thrilled if Florida’s Al Horford and North Carolina’s Brandan Wright are still around at No. 5. Both players would help immediately. China’s Yi Jianlian is also a possibility, but the Celtics may not want to take a chance on him.

Head coach Doc Rivers will get some help from the draft, but its just not going to be what the Celtics were hoping for when they listened to the results of the draft lottery on May 22nd. However, a blockbuster trade for an established NBA All-Star could be in the works. The fifth overall selection is a nice asset to have, and would most definitely be part of any such deal.

Key Player(s): Tony Allen (Guard), Ryan Gomes (Forward), Gerald Green (Guard), Al Jefferson (Forward), Kendrick Perkins (Center), Paul Pierce (Forward/Guard), Rajon Rondo (Guard), Wally Szczerbiak (Forward), Delonte West (Guard).

Team Needs: Help in the frontcourt, low-post scorer, rebounding and toughness down low.

Draft picks: 1st round (5th overall), 2nd round (32nd overall).