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2016 NBA Mock Draft: Built On Unpredictability

By Aaron Ferguson

March 24, 2016; Anaheim, CA, USA; Duke Blue Devils guard Brandon Ingram (14) dunks to score a basket against Oregon Ducks during the second half of the semifinal game in the West regional of the NCAA Tournament at Honda Center. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports
March 24, 2016; Anaheim, CA, USA; Duke Blue Devils guard Brandon Ingram (14) dunks to score a basket against Oregon Ducks during the second half of the semifinal game in the West regional of the NCAA Tournament at Honda Center. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-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) /

3. Boston Celtics – Dragan Bender (Bosnia and Herzegovina)

The Boston Celtics are in a position to make this pick or deal it. If the Celtics keep the pick, they will get a versatile big man in Dragan Bender that will be able to stretch the floor. Bender stands 7-foot-1 and weighs in at 219 pounds, giving him a tall, athletic frame. As Bender’s body matures, he will add strength and can expand his skill set even more.

Bender’s offensive game features a three-point shot, hitting 39.2 percent of three-point attempts in the Israeli League. His athleticism can be showcased in transition where he can run the floor, fill a lane and finish. What is most valuable are his passing skills. With his ability to see over the defense, thanks to his height, and his 9-foot-3 standing reach, he has the ability to be a playmaker for the Celtics.

Defensively is where Bender’s game is unique. He has the ability to use his athleticism to defend on the perimeter, which is needed due to his limited size. His lateral movement and quick feet allow him to stay in front of players and contribute defensively on the perimeter.

Bender, 18, can be a shot blocker, thanks to his height and lengthy arms. It will also translate to his rebounding capabilities. Strength isn’t going to be a factor until his body matures and he develops, so using his length will be necessary to excel on the boards. The biggest factor will be getting good position, but that could be a problem if he’s playing on the perimeter.

Overall, Bender’s game is going to be solid. He has the opportunity to develop as a two-way player that can impact a game on either end of the court. The Celtics will get a new-wave power forward that the NBA is transitioning to, and will be a plus defender against opposing stretch-4s.

Next: 4. Phoenix Suns

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