5 2024 NBA Draft prospects who should be on Celtics' radar
By Tyler Watts
The Boston Celtics have the best record in the NBA and are focused on chasing the championship. Adding Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday has taken them to another level and given the Celtics the best top six in the NBA. Holiday’s numbers might be down, but he helps Boston win every time out. They are the favorite in the East, but difficult decisions await this summer.
Jaylen Brown’s new contract kicks in this summer. Holiday has a $39.4 million player option, and the Celtics want to keep him in Boston. If he opts in, they will likely have a $200-plus million payroll next season and be over the second tax apron. Will ownership spend at that level? The Celtics need to win if they want to keep this core together. If not, players will be on the chopping block this summer.
Being over the second tax apron will severely limit the Celtics' roster flexibility. That makes the NBA Draft even more important. Getting talent on cheap contracts is a must. The Celtics will likely have the final pick in the first round and two second-rounders. Here are some prospects they should be watching closely.
5. Kyshawn George
George is quickly climbing draft boards as his play continues to improve. The University of Miami freshman’s numbers might not leap off the screen, but he is shooting 41.3 percent from 3-point range and displaying a versatile skill set. George has some playmaking and ball-handling ability with defensive upside.
Every team wants multiple 6’8 wings who can space the floor, handle the ball, and make plays. The 20-year-old checks those boxes and has far from reached his ceiling. He is the son of a college basketball player, and George could be a first-round pick in June if he keeps his name in the draft.
The Boston Celtics have been searching for a wing to back up Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. If Kyshawn George is available, he will be difficult to pass up for his upside as a difference-maker alone.