The Celtics have been gifted with a strong Daniel Theis season, but the overall integrity of the frontcourt is still a concern. The Celtics lack size and should use one of three first-round picks to address their most immediate concern. Jalen Smith checks a lot of boxes for the Celtics.
While Smith has definite concerns on defense — a thin lower body and somewhat rigid athleticism are hurdles he will need to clear — he was one of the most productive two-way centers in college basketball this season. At 6-foot-10, he can shoot 3s, protect the rim, and do the little things in between. That carries a lot of value in the modern NBA.
With Theis best used situationally and Enes Kanter’s future in limbo, the Celtics could hand Smith playing time as soon as next season. He’s not a starter in the NBA — not as a rookie, at least — but addresses a clear area of need and could spend 15-20 minutes coming off the bench as a rookie.