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Boston Celtics: Five Potential Draft Options With #3 Pick

By Mike McDaniel

Jun 25, 2015; Brooklyn, NY, USA; NBA commissioner Adam Silver speaks at the conclusion of the first round of the 2015 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 25, 2015; Brooklyn, NY, USA; NBA commissioner Adam Silver speaks at the conclusion of the first round of the 2015 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /
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TREVISO, ITALY - JUNE 07: Dragan Bender in action during the adidas Eurocamp at La Ghirada sports center on June 7, 2015 in Treviso, Italy. (Photo by Roberto Serra/Iguana Press/Getty Images)
TREVISO, ITALY – JUNE 07: Dragan Bender in action during the adidas Eurocamp at La Ghirada sports center on June 7, 2015 in Treviso, Italy. (Photo by Roberto Serra/Iguana Press/Getty Images) /

4. PF Dragan Bender, 7’1″ 220 lbs., Croatia

Dragan Bender is one of the most intriguing prospects in this year’s NBA Draft.

There are always plenty of questions surrounding foreign prospects, but a player like Bender with similar frame and playing style to that of Knicks forward Kristaps Porzingis may all but guarantee a top-five selection for the 18-year-old 7-footer.

Bender would undoubtedly fill a need in the rebounding department for the Celtics and has shown elite playmaking ability for his size while playing overseas.

His versatility and potential to play multiple positions once he moves to the NBA makes him an interesting choice at number three overall.

The NBA weight room should serve him well, as his current lanky frame would make it difficult for him to compete in the post at the present moment. Additionally, he will need to continue to grow his offensive game outside of the lane in order to maximize his potential in the American game.

Related Story: 25 Best Players to Play for the Boston Celtics

Bender resembles the closest boom-or-bust option for the Celtics on this list and his selection definitely would not go without risk, especially when considering how he may or may not adapt to the elite-level talent in the NBA.

With all this being said, the Porzingis effect of last year’s selection by the division-rival New York Knicks could ultimately play into this selection for the Celtics.

Next: #3: The Do-It-All Point Guard

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