Boston Celtics: Redrafting the last decade of first round picks
Original pick: R.J. Hunter
New pick: Montrezl Harrell
The draft compensation for Doc Rivers, R.J. Hunter, never panned into the player the Celtics hoped, at least during his time in green. Hunter, halfway through his first season, was waived by Boston jumping around a number of teams. Until finally landing in Atlanta.
Hunter came out of college as the next J.J. Redick or Kyle Korver, with his unbelievable catch and shooting abilities. As the 3-point shot was rising in popularity, the Celtics believed they got a gem with the pick. But for the first three years of his career, he mostly stayed on the bench.
Related Story. The 5 worst free agent signings in Boston Celtics history. light
Coming out of college, most scouts knew that Montrezl Harrell was a defensive anchor, although he lacked the size to make a difference immediately, he had the potential to be a nice big man in the post. Although Harrell has played on the bench his whole career, he learned how to score in the NBA and defense exceptionally well despite his height.
At the time Harrell would have filled all the needs of the Celtics, proving interior defense, which they heavily lacked. His off-ball impact would also be exactly what the Celtics needed in the future.
One of the most important players on the Boston Celtics today, the beloved Marcus Smart, has become a staple in Celtics basketball. Still, could the Celtics have done better?