Boston Celtics: 3 realistic additions that could make C’s title favorites

Jalen Smith

I take advantage of every opportunity possible to talk about all the reasons why the Boston Celtics should target Jalen Smith in this year’s draft. Frankly, he could seriously aid in shoring up two major needs for the team: more talent off the pine and improving their front court rotation.

In his second year with the Maryland Terrapins, Smith upped his draft-stock tremendously. Playing in 31 games, the big man put up impressive averages of 15.5 points, 10.5 rebounds and 2.5 blocks per game on 54 percent shooting from the floor and 37 percent shooting from deep on a respectable 2.8 attempts.

Showcasing a solid shooting stroke, an impressive ability to put the ball on the floor and an unbelievable feel for the game on defense, the big turned himself into his team’s most trusty player. With his production, Smith received honors of Big 10 All-Defensive Team, First-Team All-Big 10 and found himself on the All-American Third-Team.

With a game reminiscent of a young Chris Bosh during his days at Georgia Tech, adding a player such as Smith could prove to be a wondrous move for the C’s in the long run. Like Bosh, the 20-year-old’s game could transition perfectly to the next level — and work wonders in a Brad Stevens-led system — especially if he puts on some size (currently 6-10, 225 pounds) like Bosh wound up doing.

Holding the rights to three picks in this year’s draft the C’s will have numerous opportunities to select Smith — preferably with their projected 26th or, even more preferable 30th pick. His skill set would add ever-so valuable scoring and defensive chops to their second unit and would very likely help bolster their less-than-intimidating front court rotation.