The Boston Celtics should be locked in on draft Cedric Coward with the 28th overall pick in the first round. They must make a cost-cutting move this summer, and it will come from one of their top talents. Kristaps Porzingis’ illness may put him on the chopping block or Jrue Holiday could be dealt. To save money, this draft pick will be required to play quickly or Boston will lose some depth.
Coward was outstanding in his six games this season, but a shoulder injury ended things in November. It was the 6’6 wing's first year at Washington State, so there are just two years of Eastern Washington film and his tape from his time at DIII Willamette. The lack of sample puts his draft stock all over the board, but if he falls to the late-first, Coward will go down as one of the steals of this class.
Every team is looking for impact wings capable of standing out on both ends of the floor. The 21-year-old may be just that and the limited sample could force him to fall to Boston.
Celtics should target Cedric Coward in the 2025 NBA Draft
Coward shot 38.8 percent from 3-point range over 196 attempts at the D1 level. He has shown flashes of being successful off movement and the catch, but he is not just a shooter. The 6’6 wing can make plays, finish at the rim, and defend multiple positions.
The Celtics are built around their star wings. Adding Coward to the mix with Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, and Derrick White could give Boston multiple problematic matchups to throw at any team. His 7’1 wingspan and athleticism give him immense potential on defense. Coward could be guarding the opposition’s best player and scoring 15 points per game in his prime. To get that player in the late first round would be an absolute steal.
Coward has already committed to play for Duke next season, but he may forgo that shot if some team promises him in the first round. The Celtics should be that team. He would be perfect in their versatile attack and could give them one more weapon off the bench behind Tatum and Brown.
The Boston Celtics have their full focus on their playoff battle, but the draft is fast approaching. They need someone ready to play a role immediately and should hope Cedric Coward falls. Getting a 3-and-D wing at 28th overall would be a steal, but his injury may depress his draft stock. If it does, the Celtics should pounce without thinking twice.