NBA Draft 2020: Mock Draft 6.0 (Lottery Order Set)
player. 18. . Guard / Kentucky. Boston Celtics. Tyrese Maxey. 14
Tyrese Maxey wasn’t particularly impressive in his lone season at Kentucky, but he’s firmly in the lottery discussion — and someone who feels like the quintessential Celtics player. This is tremendous value for a Boston team in need of depth behind Kemba Walker and Marcus Smart on the perimeter.
At 6-foot-3, Maxey is a smidge undersized for a natural two. Even so, he has a strong frame and a 6-foot-6 wingspan at his disposal. Maxey carries himself with a great deal of confidence, and his defensive intensity is special. He leaves it all on the floor and does great work at the point of attack. Not to mention, he’s another capable playmaker and spot-up shooter to help fill gaps in the second unit.
He’s not a point guard, but the Celtics don’t need Maxey to be a point guard. If he can play 20-25 minutes a night, get buckets as a slasher, make the right passes, and defend his tail off, the Celtics will be pleased. He’s joining a cohesive, ready-for-contention group.