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Boston Celtics: 2017 NBA Draft grades

By Evan Massey

Jun 22, 2017; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Jayson Tatum (Duke) is introduced by NBA commissioner Adam Silver as the number three overall pick to the Boston Celtics in the first round of the 2017 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 22, 2017; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Jayson Tatum (Duke) is introduced by NBA commissioner Adam Silver as the number three overall pick to the Boston Celtics in the first round of the 2017 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /
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Feb 2, 2017; Berkeley, CA, USA; California Golden Bears guard Jabari Bird (23) controls the ball against the Utah Utes during the first half at Haas Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 2, 2017; Berkeley, CA, USA; California Golden Bears guard Jabari Bird (23) controls the ball against the Utah Utes during the first half at Haas Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports /

No. 56 — Jabari Bird

With the Celtics’ final pick in the 2017 NBA Draft, Ainge decided to give California Golden Bears’ standout Jabari Bird a chance. Bird had a great season at California last season and may have a shot to earn a roster spot at the end of the bench for the Celtics.

Bird averaged 14.3 points per game last season, while chipping in 4.7 rebounds for the Golden Bears as well. He shot 43.9 percent from the field overall and 36.3 percent from the three-point line. While he may not have the best statistics himself, Bird is an energy player that can lock up on defense as well.

Boston will have a tough time deciding who to keep with their last couple of roster spots. Bird and Allen will likely be fighting directly against each other for a spot on the roster.

Next: 2017 NBA Draft grades for all 30 teams

Expect to see Bird embrace the challenge and come out in training camp and preseason action looking to prove a point. He plays with a chip on his shoulder and fans will not have to worry about effort when it comes to his game. Don’t be surprised if Bird makes a serious run at making the roster.

Grade: B-

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