2017 NBA draft grades: Celtics add offensive weapon with Jayson Tatum
The Boston Celtics have dominated the early storylines of this year's NBA draft, ultimately finalizing a deal Monday to move down to No. 3 from the top spot in exchange for future picks. After losing the conference finals to the Cavaliers, the Celtics head into the draft with a number of needs, including offensive help on the wing and more of a presence in the paint.
Last year, the team took Jaylen Brown in a surprise move at No. 3 overall. Brown was somewhat of an unexpected pick that early in the draft, but he showed maturity as his role developed throughout the season.
Here's the full list of picks the Celtics hold in the 2017 draft, which will be updated with grades and analysis as each selection is made.
2017 NBA Draft Grades: Pick-By-Pick Analysis
Round 1, Pick 3 (No. 3 overall): Jayson Tatum
Boston felt good about the decision to move down to 3, opted not to add to a crowded backcourt and saw Tatum as a better fit than Josh Jackson here. He’s one of the draft’s most talented offensive players and should add a necessary dimension to its frontcourt in time. The Celtics may have bigger designs this summer and could potentially move this pick, but if they keep Tatum, they should still feel good. He has a chance to end up the best scorer in this class when it’s all said and done. - Jeremy Woo
Grade: A-
Round 2, Pick 7 (No. 37 overall): Semi Ojeleye, F, SMU
Round 2, Pick 23 (No. 53 overall): Kadeem Allen, G, Arizona
Round 2, Pick 26 (No. 56 overall): Jabari Bird, SG, Cal
