Boston Celtics: 3 draft prospects C’s should consider with the Milwaukee Bucks pick

Xavier Tillman, F

Last, but certainly not least we have perhaps the safest choice — in our humble opinion — the Boston Celtics could select with the last pick in the draft, Michigan State forward Xavier Tillman.

Though not the best offensive prospect, Tillman’s defensive chops might be too hard to pass up on at this point in the draft if he is available. In 31 outings the 21 year old put up averages of 13.7 points, 10.3 rebounds, 1.2 steals and 2.1 blocks per game on 55 percent shooting from the field.

With his excellence on the defensive side of the ball, Tillman ranked fourth in the Big 10 in blocks,  boasted a defensive box plus/ minus of 9.2 and was bestowed the honor of the conference’s Defensive Player of the Year award.

His high motor, defensive prowess, solid interior moves and willingness to find his teammates for scoring opportunities is somewhat reminiscent to a current member on the Boston Celtics: Marcus Smart.

At 6-8, 245 pounds he has the ideal frame for a modern day NBA small forward, but has shown to be more comfortable playing the four which could prove to be a problem at the next level.

However, at such a late pick like 30, pickings are indefinitely slim.

If he manages to improve upon his mid-range/ 3-point shooting — 27.3 percent shooting from 3 for his collegiate career — he could realistically see 10-12 minutes of action per game with the Celtics next season.