Boston Celtics Mock Draft 4.0: June Edition
By Jeremy Karll
No. 3 – Jamal Murray, PG/SG, Kentucky
It’s no secret that the Boston Celtics are in dire need of a scorer on the wing, more specifically, a three-point shooter. Jamal Murray is arguably the safest and best player available outside of the top-two, and would give Boston what they’re looking for.
Murray isn’t a great defender but with Avery Bradley and Marcus Smart on the roster, the Celtics should be looking to bolster their offense. Besides, his 6’5″ and 207 pound build gives him great size for a shooting guard that helps him play in the paint. Also, his quickness and athleticism will help him adapt to the NBA-game and ensure he’s more than serviceable on the defensive end.
Like previously noted, Boston needs someone who can add a spark off their bench or be the missing scorer next to Isaiah Thomas. Murray could help space the floor as he was an incredible three-point shooter as a freshman. He shot 40.8 percent from three on the year and it went up to 44.4 percent during SEC play once he got used to the college game. Murray also connected on 79-of-100 threes during his workout with the Celtics.
For as much hype Buddy Hield receives for his three-point shooting, Murray isn’t far behind. He can catch-and-shoot or create shots for himself, which would be a huge addition for a team who heavily relies on Thomas to create opportunities.
Murray entered Kentucky listed as a point guard but was used as a shooting guard most of the time because of Tyler Ulis. His ability to play either position will give the Celtics versatility that’s missing in their back court right now.
Murray would most likely take over the expected role of Terry Rozier next season, or at least heavily cut into his minutes. Having a great catch-and-shoot scorer who showed NBA range as a freshman is exactly what Boston needs as they’re a team who loves to run in transition and create open opportunities from beyond the arc.
Next: No. 16 Denzel Valentine