Boston Celtics: 5 Potential Draft Options With No. 23 Pick

1. PF Cheick Diallo, 6’9″ 219 lbs., Kansas

If he officially declares for the 2016 NBA Draft by Wednesday’s deadline, Cheick Diallo is the top option for the Celtics with the No. 23 overall pick. Much like Malik Beasley in the prior slide, a pick of Diallo, of course, would not come without risk.

There are questions about Diallo’s discipline off the court, as his inability to perform in the classroom caused him to miss a good portion of Kansas’ early schedule. He eventually returned to the team, but never seemed comfortable within Bill Self’s offense.

This is another concern, as scouts worry that Diallo may need some more polishing to play within a set offensive system, instead of simply playing on a whim as he has in the past.

The positives of Diallo though, are many. He is one of the best shot blockers in the draft, displaying excellent leaping ability and athleticism around the basket. He posted a 35-inch vertical at the combine, which at 6’9″ tall, is quite impressive.

In addition to his strong penchant on the defensive end of the floor, Diallo is also an excellent rebounder, which is another area where this Celtics squad could use some help.

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If Brad Stevens believes he can coach Diallo up on the offensive end of the floor, the potential is there for Diallo to become a force of nature in the paint for the Celtics for years to come.