2022 NBA Draft: 3 realistic targets for the Boston Celtics with 53rd pick
Boston Celtics draft target No. 2: Moussa Diabate, Michigan
In this scenario, the Boston Celtics add a six-foot-ten power forward from the University of Michigan, Moussa Diabate. The Frenchman would be a welcomed addition for length, offensive versatility, and mobility on both ends of the floor.
He has phenomenal touch around the basket at 54% shooting. He also possesses a nice face-up jumper and range that extends out past the 3-point line. Daibate would help in a key area where Boston struggled: rebounding, where in the NBA finals they gave up countless second-chance points.
He posted averages of nine points and six rebounds in only 24 minutes a game as a hustle role player for the Wolverines. This included an admirable 2.4 offensive rebounds per contest. The ability to keep possessions alive on the offensive end through creating second-chance opportunities with his board work.
The big man could be a long-term replacement for an aging Al Horford or a competent injury insurance reinforcement for an injury-prone, Robert Williams. Daniel Theis proved to be serviceable, but when you are playing the long game is important to note that Ime did not feel confident in deploying him in big games.
Diabate will need to bulk up, but this is often the case for most players making that transition from college to the pros. At 20 years old, it’s amazing what one off-season in the gym and weight room could do for one’s body. As a result, of lacking size and muscle, he can get pushed around by larger frontcourt players. This leads to him becoming foul-happy as a result.
Scouting reports say he communicates well defensively and that he has a knack for passing out of the post. Diabate would only be an addition to our well-formed defensive unit.
The Celtics need some added length and raw athleticism in their second unit and Diabate’s ceiling would be similar to a player like Chris Boucher or even Brandon Clarke. There’s value potential to be had here.