Boston Celtics: 3 NBA Draft replacements for likely C’s departees

NBA Draft replacement for Brad Wanamaker: Kira Lewis Jr., Alabama

While it’s evident that the Boston Celtics must address their center rotation this offseason and, in turn, could likely look to the NBA Draft to do so, their backup point guard slot could also use for some fine-tuning as well.

For months now, we’ve been stating that the holder of the position over the last few seasons, Brad Wanamaker, is simply not the answer behind Kemba Walker, especially with growing concerns over his long-term health. Because of this, the shamrocks could wind up looking to the draft to bring on a talented youngster to be mentored by the All-Star as a potential long-term investment for the franchise.

Though we love ourselves some Jalen Smith at their No. 14 pick, should they wish to go the point guard route, and if he finds himself available, we’d be ok with the franchise selecting Alabama floor general Kira Lewis Jr. at this position as well.

Referred to by ourselves as a “Ja Morant-lite” prospect, the Crimson Tide star is a baller that could be one of the biggest steals from this year’s draft class.

During his second, and final season at Alabama, the point guard put up impressive averages of 18.5 points, 5.2 assists, 4.8 rebounds, and 1.8 steals per game on 46 percent shooting from the floor and 37 percent shooting from deep.

Proving to be quite a reliable catch and shoot player as well as a sound finisher at the rim, Lewis Jr.’s skillset is one that could very easily be seen as beneficial to add to a Boston team in need of improved offensive production off the pine — ranked 29th in points per game (28.5), 28th in 3-point percentage (31.8), and 20th in offensive rating (53.6).

Kira Lewis Jr. has the potential to be something special in this league if put in the right environment. What scenario would be better for the 19-year-old than to be slotted into a scheme run by the widely renowned “point guard whisperer” himself, Brad Stevens?