2019 NBA Mock Draft 1.0: Way-too-early projections

R.J. Barrett | 2019 NBA Draft prospect (Photo by Adam Glanzman/Getty Images)
R.J. Barrett | 2019 NBA Draft prospect (Photo by Adam Glanzman/Getty Images)
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(Photo by Patrick Albertini/EB via Getty Images)
(Photo by Patrick Albertini/EB via Getty Images)

Aside from Williamson, Doumbouya is the best athlete in the draft. The Frenchman has room left to grow offensively, but he’s an elite defensive prospect whose athleticism should eventually translate into a high offensive ceiling. He’s the perfect long-term gamble for a competitive Celtics team.

Using the Kings’ pick, which was acquired from Philadelphia during the Jayson TatumMarkelle Fultz trade, the Celtics will have the opportunity to add another elite young talent to the roster. At 6-foot-9, Doumbouya possesses the potential to defend all five positions at some point.

Doumbouya needs to add to his ball handling and shot creation skills, but he’s already capable of knocking down perimeter shots with regularity. His athleticism, once he puts all the pieces together, will make him a dangerous slasher and off-ball threat as well.