Celtics Predicted To Add Young 'Versatile' Forward To Shake Up Frontcourt

Alabama Crimson Tide forward Amari Allen

Celtics Predicted To Add Young 'Versatile' Forward To Shake Up Frontcourt originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The NBA Draft Lottery results were announced on Sunday, and while the Boston Celtics' 2026 first-round pick wasn't affected by the lottery, it's now time to consider which players they could select with the 27th pick.

ESPN's Jeremy Woo released a two-round mock draft on Sunday, featuring the Celtics selecting Alabama forward Amari Allen in the first round.

"Allen's positional versatility and ability to augment lineups on both sides of the ball give him a path to finding a long-term NBA role," Woo wrote. "While he is not likely to create his own shot at a high level and shot a middling 34.1% from 3, his playmaking flashes and defensive instincts give him a good role-player baseline to build on if his scoring ability can catch up.

"Whether he can work up the board from here or ultimately winds up back in college remains to be seen, as an older Freshman who was unheralded to begin the season. The Celtics value taller perimeter players in Allen's mold who can fit in alongside their stars, and they could afford him time to develop."

It’s quite surprising that Allen decided to enter the draft, considering he's only a freshman. He appeared in 32 games for the Crimson Tide, averaging 11.4 points and 6.9 rebounds. While Allen still has the option to return to school after the combine, if he chooses to go through with the draft, he may need a few years to develop before becoming an NBA rotational player.