NBA Draft 2012: What The Boston Celtics Are Getting In Kris Joseph

This is part three in a three-part series about the Boston Celtics' three picks in the 2012 NBA Draft. Kris Joseph is a forward from Syracuse University who was drafted by Boston.

PLAYER: Kris Joseph - (Forward - Syracuse Orange)

DRAFTED: No. 51 Overall, Second Round, Boston Celtics.

HEIGHT/WEIGHT: Six feet, seven inches/215 pounds.

BIRTHDAY: December 17, 1988 (Age: 23)

WINGSPAN: Six feet, 11 inches.

NBA COMBINE RESULTS: No step vertical - 28.5. Maximum vertical - 35. Bench Press - 6. Agility - Not Listed. Sprint - 3.46.

SCOUTING REPORT: Joseph was a four-year player at Syracuse and improved in almost every season. Joseph is a multi-faceted offensive player who can hit mid-range jumpers and get to the rack.

COMPARISONS: At best, Gary Forbes. At worst, Carlos Powell. (via Draft Express)

KEY STATS: Averaged 3.4 points in his freshman season, but never dipped below 10.8 points per game in his final three seasons at Syracuse. Posted career highs of 14.3 points per game while shooting 45.6 percent and 5.2 rebounds per game in 2010-11. Joseph's numbers dipped in his senior season, as he averaged 13.4 points and 4.7 rebounds.

CAREER HIGH: Points - 29 points on 6-of-11 shooting vs. Georgetown.

WHAT HE SAID: Quote(s) directly from Joseph are provided below.

"Thank you everyone for the wishes and the love! Specially from my city of MTL. I appreciate you all!! #Celtics" (Joseph on Twitter)

"Looking forward to learning from one of the best wings to play the game!! Paul "The Truth" Pierce." (Joseph on Twitter)

WHAT THEY SAY: Sean Keeley Of Troy Nunes Is An Absolute Magician, SB Nation's Syracuse blog, shared his thoughts and opinions on Joseph's game below.

Kris Joseph is one of those guys who won't go down in the history books but will get a standing ovation anytime he ever goes back to Syracuse. Best qualities are his attitude and work ethic. Great guy, great teammate, loved rooting for him. His worst quality, I suppose, is that he seems to lack that killer instinct we were all waiting for. He peaked as a sophomore (and probably should have gone pro then) and spent the last years trying to meet expectations as Syracuse's next star. He led the team in scoring but never transcended his status.

With Joseph, I always said he was "sneaky good." You wouldn't really be focused on him or his play and then all of a sudden you'd realize he had 12 points, six rebounds and three steals and you don't really know how he did it. He was never amazing at one thing but he became really, really good at lots of things.

My honest guess is that Kris' time with Boston will be short-lived. I don't think Kris is still on the [Celtics] roster at the end of the season and possibly not even by the time the season starts. He seems destined for some NBDL followed by a solid overseas career (as well as appearances with Team Canada).

VIDEO/HIGHLIGHTS:

EXPECTATION: Joseph making the roster for the long terms seems unlikely, but hey, when a guy like Greg Stiemsma carves out a role on this team, who knows? Joseph had a solid college career, but that's a moot point in the NBA. Joseph will have some time to work out the kinks in the preseason, maybe even at the beginning of the season, but will probably join the Maine Red Claws of the NBA D-League at some point, and he may not come back.

For NBA Draft 2012 news, follow our stream. Also visit SB Nation NBA and CelticsBlog.

NBA Draft 2012: What The Boston Celtics Are Getting In Fab Melo

This is part two in a three-part series about the Boston Celtics' three draft picks in the 2012 NBA Draft. Fab Melo is a center from Syracuse University who was drafted by Boston.

PLAYER: Fabricio Melo - (Center - Syracuse Orange)

DRAFTED: No. 22 Overall, First Round, Boston Celtics.

HEIGHT/WEIGHT: Seven feet, zero inches/255 pounds.

BIRTHDAY: June 20, 1990 (Age: 22)

WINGSPAN: Seven feet, 2 1/2 inches.

NBA COMBINE RESULTS: No step vertical - 29.5. Maximum vertical - 31. Bench Press - 9. Agility - 12.13. Sprint - 3.44.

SCOUTING REPORT: Melo is a potential pick, and the Celtics have certainly taken a risk by drafting him. He has only been playing organized basketball for a few years, and that fact showed in his first year at Syracuse. Summing it up in one word: disappointing. That changed with one year under his belt, and he put on a strong showing in his second and final season with the Orange, ultimately winning the Big East Defensive Player Of The Year award. Melo is known for his shot blocking prowess, but he has a reputation for apathy and lack of conditioning. He has talent, but is a project, one that the Celtics need to complete.

COMPARISONS: At best, Brendan Haywood. At worst, Desagana Diop (from Draft Express).

KEY STATS: Melo struggled mightily in his first season at 'Cuse -- he averaged a dismal 2.3 points, 1.9 rebounds and 0.8 blocks. His next season was far better, as Melo averaged 7.8 points, 5.8 boards and an impressive 2.9 blocks. Melo could have helped 'Cuse in the 2012 NCAA Tournament, but was ruled academically ineligible, sidelining him for the tourney.

CAREER HIGHS: Points - 14 vs. St. John's. Rebounds - 10 vs. Pittsburgh.

WHAT HE SAID: Quote(s) directly from Melo are provided below.

"That's right I am Celtic! It feels so good right. It's time to celebrate with my family. I will get back at y'all tomorrow." (Melo on Twitter)

WHAT THEY SAY: Sean Keeley Of Troy Nunes Is An Absolute Magician, SB Nation's Syracuse blog, shared his thoughts and opinions on Melo's game below.

For Melo, his best quality is his tenacious defensive ability. He's not afraid to get in someone's face and go for the block, almost to a fault. He was good for a goaltend every game but he also blocked 4-5 shots, so, trade-off. His worst quality is his perceived laziness. Fab is telling people that his suspensions came from poor English and academic issues, which is true, but he's leaving out that he was sighted at the campus bar during the week so often that it become commonplace. He also seems to be a little bit of a space cadet off the court. He's going to need someone to whip him into mental shape as well as physical shape.

You really have to put Melo in perspective. He's only been playing basketball for a few years. He disappointed as a freshman but he grew by leaps and bounds as a sophomore. Heading into the season, if you would have told me he'd become a dominant defensive force and the most important player on the court for Syracuse, I'd have laughed you out the door.

As for Fab, I actually think he might [be able to transition well to the NBA and Celtics system]. Let KG go to work on him in practice and behind-the-scenes and by the time Garnett leaves, I think you could have a guy capable of taking the reigns. He won't be as good as KG, not by far, but he could hold his own, especially on defense. Fab's got it in his head that he's got an outside shot but he's kidding himself. Right now he needs to be all about improving in the paint on both ends.

I can definitely see him grow into his role in the NBA and become a competent role playing center. He won't win you any scoring titles but he might be near the top of the blocks list. I'll say he's got the look of a guy who plays for 7-8 years for three teams or so.

VIDEO/HIGHLIGHTS:

In-game highlights from Melo's time at Syracuse can be viewed at NBA.com.

EXPECTATION: Melo isn't guaranteed a spot on the team from the start. Chance are, he'll spend some time in the NBA D-League with the Maine Red Claws -- sooner rather than later. As we've established, he is a work in progress, and hopefully he can benefit from learning from a defensive star like Kevin Garnett, should he return. If he is willing to put in the work and takes advice from the right people, he can carve out a role for himself here.

For NBA Draft 2012 news, follow our stream. Also visit SB Nation NBA and CelticsBlog.

NBA Draft 2012: What The Boston Celtics Are Getting In Jared Sullinger

This is part one in a three-part series about the Boston Celtics' three draft picks. Jared Sullinger is a power forward from Ohio State University who was drafted by the Celtics.

PLAYER: Jared Sullinger (Power Forward - Ohio St. Buckeyes)

DRAFTED: No. 21 Overall, First Round, Boston Celtics.

HEIGHT/WEIGHT: Six feet, nine inches/268 pounds.

BIRTHDAY: March 4, 1992 (Age: 20)

WINGSPAN: Seven feet, 1.25 inches.

NBA COMBINE RESULTS: No step vertical - 29.5. Maximum vertical - 31. Bench Press - 9. Agility - 12.77. Sprint - 3.81.

SCOUTING REPORT: Sullinger excels in the post, and he consistently punished opposing interior defenses during his collegiate career. Likely won't burn you in the mid-range and three-point game, but possesses some jump shooting ability. Big concern is athleticism, as well as the back injuries that caused NBA doctors to red flag him before this year's draft.

COMPARISONS: At best, Luis Scola. At worst, Glen Davis (from Draft Express).

KEY STATS: Sullinger played in 74 of 76 possible games during his Ohio State tenure and averaged nearly 17 points and ten rebounds in each of his two seasons. Sullinger nearly averaged a double-double in his sophomore campaign this past season, posting averages of 17.5 points and 9.2 rebounds while shooting 51.9 percent from the field and blocking 1.1 shots per game. During his freshman year, Sullinger averaged 17.2 points and 10.2 boards.

CAREER HIGHS: Points - 40 points vs. IUPUI. Rebounds - 19 vs. South Carolina.

WHAT HE SAID: Quote(s) directly from Sullinger are provided below.

"This (not being invited to the draft, being picked low) still tells me I'm not a good enough player yet. They told me I wasn't good enough, now it's time to work." (via ESPN Boston)

"Don't worry about what you [people] tell you can't do. Go out and just do what you always do." (via Sullinger on Twitter)

WHAT THEY SAY: Luke Zimmermann of Land-Grant Holy Land, SB Nation's Ohio State blog, shared his thoughts and opinions on Sullinger's game below.

Sullinger's best quality is his court intelligence. His basketball IQ is mature beyond his years and his ability to find the open teammate to generate easy offense usually takes longer for a player of his skill set to develop; he's pretty much already there. Along the same lines, he's great at positioning himself (not unlike Kevin Love) and getting rebounds by reading shots and angles better than most. This is to make up for his lack of natural athleticism, which as well regarded, is easily the worst part of his game.

Sullinger was a force on campus from the first day he stepped on campus. Not unlike Greg Oden before him, guys like that instantly make a teams ceiling another round in the NCAAs. He commanded double teams virtually from his first trip down the court and was able to take over games in ways that few modern collegiate big men can.

I think Boston is a great opportunity for him. They're not a particularly fast team which works out well given that Sully isn't particularly fleet of foot. I think if Rondo develop a rapport, it's possible he could be a 10/8 type guy pretty early on in his NBA career. I think he can make an immediate impact and be a rotation guy for the Celtics while growing into NBA life and continuing to improve (health permitting).

I think worst case scenario, Boston gets 5-6 solid seasons out of Sullinger. He'll be like a rangier Glen Davis meets Kenny Thomas and should be a reliable starting 4 (though probably not an all-star) for as long as he's physically able.

Celtics coach Doc Rivers - "Obviously, we needed to address height. The fact that Jared Sullinger fell to us is just fortunate. Last year he would have been a top five pick. All year he was a top-10 pick. The fact that he kept falling to us gives us a rebounder, high IQ player, great passer, and a very good shooter from the outside, gives us some physical force." (via Boston Globe)

VIDEO/HIGHLIGHTS:

EXPECTATION: Sullinger will have work to do in order to secure minutes on this Celtics team, provided Kevin Garnett returns. However, he will likely stick around on the active roster for most of his rookie season, barring injury. If the injury worries are for naught, and if he can stay healthy, Sullinger could become a mainstay at the forward position in Boston.

For NBA Draft 2012 news, follow our stream. Also visit SB Nation NBA and CelticsBlog.

2012 NBA Draft Grades: Boston Celtics Receive 'A' For Drafting Jared Sullinger, Fab Melo, Kris Joseph

The Boston Celtics parlayed two late first-round picks in Thursday night's 2012 NBA Draft into two big men with lottery talent, Jared Sullinger of Ohio State and Fab Melo of Syracuse.

Andrew Sharp of SB Nation gave the Celtics an 'A' in his 2012 NBA Draft Grades.

Selected PF Jared Sullinger No. 21, C Fab Melo No. 22, SF Kris Joseph No. 51

As Sullinger continued to slide Thursday, not only was I positive he'd end up on the Celtics, but it just feels like he's destined to come in and spend the next 10 years making everyone else look stupid for doubting him. He's the best offensive big man in the draft, and with his hands and soft touch around the rim, as long as he stays healthy he seems like a perfect candidate to be on the receiving end of Rajon Rondo assists for the next 10 years.

And with Fab Melo, you couldn't really imagine a better scenario for a young, raw big man surrounded by question marks. If there were a boot camp for troubled teenage big men potentially headed down the wrong path, that boot camp would involve spending nine months next to KG, right? Is there any other big man in the league you'd rather put in charge of motivating someone like Fab Melo?

It's not a coincidence that the Celtics' big three keeps turning late 1st rounders into surprising stars (Rondo, Bradley, even Kendrick Perkins), and Melo has as much potential as any of them. Between him and Sullinger, the Celtics did as well as you could ever hope picking in the 20s. Grade: A

Read the rest of Sharp's draft grades.

For more on the Celtics and the 2012 NBA Draft, check out CelticsBlog and stay tuned to SB Nation Boston.

NBA Draft 2012: Celtics Blog Talks About First Round Draft Picks

With the Celtics picking at 21 and 22 in the 2012 NBA Draft, they could have done a lot worse than Ohio State F Jared Sullinger and Syracuse C Fab Melo. Jeff Clark from our Celtics site Celtics Blog posted his thoughts on the duo, and is very high on the Jared Sullinger pick and the possibilities that it could bring the C's:.

Obviously I'm thrilled with the Sullinger pick. Worrying about injuries and being patient with players who are out for stretches at a time are old hat for us Celtics fans. When you are picking at 21 and 22, you roll the dice. Maybe he'll get hurt and never play a game, but there are plenty of guys picked in the 20's who won't make a major impact on their team. The upside is that Sully could be a long time starter for us.

While he's high on the Sullinger pick, Jeff isn't as high on Fab Melo, but he understands why they chose him:

Fab Melo I'm obviously less thrilled with but I understand the pick. He's a legit seven footer that has a talent for blocking shots. It sounds like he's going to be a project, meaning he might have to spend a year learning "the Celtic way." Fine. Again, we're getting used to that around here. If JaJuan Johnson can step up and play some more this year I'll feel a lot better about stashing Melo in Maine or keeping him around to replace Ryan Hollins (or at least Sean Williams) in the deep end of the rotation

For more on the Celtics and the 2012 NBA Draft, check out CelticsBlog and stay tuned to SB Nation Boston.

NBA Draft 2012: Boston Celtics Go Big, Get Risky With Jared Sullinger, Fab Melo Picks

Danny Ainge and the Celtics went big and took some risks with their first round picks -- Jared Sullinger and Fab Melo -- in the draft.

NBA Draft 2012: Boston A Winner On Draft Night

It appears that Danny Ainge and the rest of the Celtics brass have put together another quality draft. After taking Jared Sullinger, Fab Melo and Kris Joseph, Chris Mannix of SI.com has the Boston Celtics as one of his winners in this year's draft:

Boston addressed significant frontcourt needs by plucking plummeting Ohio State power forward Jared Sullinger at No. 21 and defensive-minded Syracuse center Fab Melo (more on him below) at No. 22. Sullinger is an interesting pick: a year ago he was considered a top-five talent, but a less than stellar sophomore year combined with concerns about a potentially chronic back injury had teams running away from him. Two concerns general managers often cite with Sullinger: a low motor and difficulties defending the pick and roll. Kevin Garnett, who assisted with the development of Kendrick Perkins and Glen Davis, could be a big help to Sullinger -- if KG decides to return.

Fab Melo -- No one is saying the 22-year old Melo is ready to play right away. But his defense and shot blocking skills are undeniable and with a little work and by adding a little bulk to his 7-foot, 255-pound frame, Melo has starting center potential. And for the Celtics, which shifted Kevin Garnett to center the second half of last season, that's a position they badly needed to fill.

Celtics Draft Picks 2012: Boston Lands Jared Sullinger, Fab Melo And Kris Joseph

NEWARK - The Boston Celtics came away with a pair of bigs and a pair of teammates at the 2012 NBA Draft, which took place at the Prudential Center on Thursday night. Boston drafted Jared Sullinger, a forward from Ohio State, at No. 21 overall and followed up the selection with Fab Melo, a center from Syracuse, with the No. 22 overall pick in the first round. The final pick of the night for the Celtics was Kris Joseph, Melo's teammate at Syracuse, who the Celtics drafted at No. 51 overall (No. 21 pick in the second round).

So, to recap, here are the newest members of the Boston Celtics. Welcome, gentlemen!

NBA Draft 2012 - Boston Celtics Draft Picks

• First Round (No. 21 Overall) - Jared Sullinger (Forward - Ohio St. Buckeyes)
• First Round (No. 22 Overall) - Fab Melo (Center - Syracuse Orange)
• Second Round (No. 51 Overall) - Kris Joseph (Forward - Syracuse Orange)

For NBA Draft 2012 news, follow our stream. Also visit SB Nation NBA and CelticsBlog.

NBA Draft 2012 Results: Complete First And Second Round Picks

NEWARK - Another draft is in the books as the 2012 NBA Draft took place at the Prudential Center on Thursday night. As usual, there were plenty of storylines. First and foremost, Anthony Davis was drafted No. 1 overall by the New Orleans Hornets, and his teammate -- Michael Midd-Gilchrist -- was drafted right behind him at No. 2 by the Charlotte Bobcats.

As for the Boston Celtics, the Eastern Conference's runner up made three selections on draft day, landing Jared Sullinger from Ohio State as well as Fab melo and Kris Joseph from Syracuse. Connecticut's Andre Drummond and Jeremy Lamb were drafted early in the first round, and the son of Celtics' coach Doc Rivers, Austin Rivers, was drafted at No. 10.

Below are the complete results from the first and second rounds of the 2012 NBA Draft.

NBA Draft 2012 - FIRST ROUND

1. New Orleans Hornets - Anthony Davis (Center - Kentucky Wildcats)
2. Charlotte Bobcats - Michael Kidd-Gilchrist (Forward - Kentucky Wildcats)
3. Washington Wizards - Bradley Beal (Guard - Florida Gators)
4. Cleveland Cavaliers - Dion Waiters (Guard - Syracuse Orange)
5. Sacramento Kings - Thomas Robinson (Forward - Kansas Jayhawks)
6. Portland Trail Blazers - Damian Lillard (Guard - Weber St. Wildcats)
7. Golden State Warriors - Harrison Barnes (Forward - North Carolina Tar Heels)
8. Toronto Raptors - Terrence Ross (Guard - Washington Huskies)
9. Detroit Pistons - Andre Drummond (Center - Connecticut Huskies)
10. New Orleans Hornets - Austin Rivers (Guard - Duke Blue Devils)
11. Portland Trail Blazers - Meyers Leonard (Center - Illinois Fighting Illini)
12. Houston Rockets - Jeremy Lamb (Guard - Connecticut Huskies)
13. Phoenix Suns - Kendall Marshall (Guard - North Carolina Tar Heels)
14. Milwaukee Bucks - John Henson (Forward - North Carolina Tar Heels)
15. Philadelphia 76ers - Maurice Harkless (Forward - St. John's Red Storm)
16. Houston Rockets - Royce White (Forward - Iowa St. Cyclones)
17. Dallas Mavericks - Tyler Zeller (Center - North Carolina Tar Heels)
18. Houston Rockets - Terrence Jones (Forward - Kentucky Wildcats)
19. Orlando Magic - Andrew Nicholson (Forward - St. Bonaventure Bonnies)
20. Denver Nuggets - Evan Fournier (Guard - France)
21. Boston Celtics - Jared Sullinger (Forward - Ohio St. Buckeyes)
22. Boston Celtics - Fab Melo (Center - Syracuse Orange)
23. Atlanta Hawks - John Jenkins (Guard - Vanderbilt Commodores)
24. Cleveland Cavaliers - Jared Cunningham (Guard - Oregon St. Beavers)
25. Memphis Grizzlies - Tony Wroten Jr. (Guard - Washington Huskies)
26. Indiana Pacers - Mile Plumlee (Forward - Duke Blue Devils)
27. Miami Heat - Arnett Moultrie (Forward - Mississippi St. Bulldogs)
28. Oklahoma City Thunder - Perry Jones II (Forward - Baylor Bears)
29. Chicago Bulls - Marquis Teague (Guard - Kentucky Wildcats)
30. Golden State Warriors - Festus Ezeli (Center - Vanderbilt Commodores)

SECOND ROUND

1. Charlotte Bobcats - Jeffery Taylor (Guard - Vanderbilt Commodores)
2. Washington Wizards - Tomas Satoransky (Guard - Czech Republic)
3. Dallas Mavericks - Bernard James (Center - Florida St. Seminoles)
4. Dallas Mavericks - Jae Crowder (Forward - Marquette Golden Eagles)
5. Golden State Warriors - Draymond Green (Forward - Michigan St. Spartans)
6. Sacramento Kings - Orlando Johnson (Guard - Santa Barbara Gauchos)
7. Toronto Raptors - Quincy Acy (Forward - Baylor Bears)
8. Denver Nuggets - Quincy Miller (Forward - Baylor Bears)
9. Detroit Pistons - Khris Middleton (Forward - Texas A&M Aggies)
10. Portland Trail Blazers - Will Barton (Guard - Memphis Tigers)
11. Portland Trail Blazers - Tyshawn Taylor (Guard - Kansas Jayhawks)
12. Milwaukee Bucks - Doron Lamb (Guard - Kentucky Wildcats)
13. Atlanta Hawks - Mike Scott (Forward - Virginia Cavaliers)
14. Detroit Pistons - Kim English (Guard - Missouri Tigers)
15. Miami Heat - Justin Hamilton (Center - LSU Tigers)
16. New Orleans Hornets - Darius Miller (Forward - Kentucky Wildcats)
17. Utah Jazz - Kevin Murphy (Forward - Tennessee Tech Golden Eagles)
18. New York Knicks - Konstantinos Papanikolaou (Forward - Greece)
19. Orlando Magic - Kyle O'Quinn (Forward - Norfolk St. Spartans)
20. Denver Nuggets - Izzet Turkyilmaz (Center - Turkey)
21. Boston Celtics - Kris Joseph (Forward - Syracuse Orange)
22. Golden State Warriors - Ognjen Kuzmic (Center - Spain)
23. Los Angeles Clippers - Furkan Aldemir (Forward - Turkey)
24. Philadelphia 76ers - Tornike Shengelia (Center - Spirou Charleroi)
25. Dallas Mavericks - Darius Johnson-Odom (Guard - Marquette Golden Eagles)
26. Toronto Raptors - Tomislav Zubcic (Forward - Croatia)
27. Brooklyn Nets - Ilkan Karaman (Forward - Turkey)
28. Minnesota Timberwolves - Robbie Hummel (Forward - Purdue Boilermakers)
29. San Antonio Spurs - Marcus Denmon (Guard - Missouri Tigers)
30. Los Angeles Lakers - Robert Sacre (Center - Gonzaga Bulldogs)

For NBA Draft 2012 news, follow our stream. Also visit SB Nation NBA and CelticsBlog.

NBA Draft Results 2012: Kris Joseph Drafted By Boston Celtics At No. 51 Overall

NEWARK - Unhappy with only one former member of the Syracuse Orange, the Boston Celtics drafted Fab Melo's teammate -- forward Kris Joseph -- with the No. 51 overall pick in the 2012 NBA Draft on Thursday night at the Prudential Center.

Joseph played four seasons at Syracuse, marking the second straight year they drafted a four-year player out of college. Joseph had his best season in 2010-11, averaging a career-high 14.3 points and 5.3 rebounds. Last season, Joseph's numbered regressed slightly, as he averaged 13.4 points and 4.7 boards for the Orange.

During his tenure at Syracuse, Joseph's shooting numbers were up and down. In his freshman season, he shot 42.7 percent while averaging just 3.4 points. The next season, he shot a career-best 49 percent, and followed it up with a 45.6 percent mark during his junior year. This past season, Joseph shot 42.1 percent.

For NBA Draft 2012 news, follow our stream. Also visit SB Nation NBA and CelticsBlog.

NBA Draft 2012 Results: Complete First Round Recap From Newark

NEWARK - The night is half over inside the Prudential Center, where the 2012 NBA Draft is taking place. Anthony Davis and Michael Kidd-Gilchrist stole the spotlight at the top of the draft, as the former University of Kentucky teammates were drafted No. 1 and No. 2 by the New Orleans Hornets and Charlotte Bobcats, respectively, in Thursday night's draft.

On the local scene, Andre Drummond and Jeremy Lamb of the Connecticut Huskies went early in the draft, with Drummond going to the Detroit Pistons at N. 9 and Lamb being taken by the Houston Rockets at No. 12. Austin Rivers, the son of Boston Celtics head coach Doc Rivers, was drafted No. 10 overall by the New Orleans Hornets.

Boston, meanwhile, had back-to-back picks late in the first round and selected Jared Sullinger of Ohio State and Fab Melo of Syracuse with the No. 21 and No. 22 overall picks. They still have one more pick on the night, No. 51 overall (No. 21 in the second round).

Below are the complete results from the opening round of Thursday night's draft. Enjoy!

NBA Draft 2012 - First Round Results

1. New Orleans Hornets - Anthony Davis (Center - Kentucky Wildcats)
2. Charlotte Bobcats - Michael Kidd-Gilchrist (Forward - Kentucky Wildcats)
3. Washington Wizards - Bradley Beal (Guard - Florida Gators)
4. Cleveland Cavaliers - Dion Waiters (Guard - Syracuse Orange)
5. Sacramento Kings - Thomas Robinson (F - Kansas Jayhawks)
6. Portland Trail Blazers - Damian Lillard (Guard - Weber St. Wildcats)
7. Golden State Warriors - Harrison Barnes (Forward - North Carolina Tar Heels)
8. Toronto Raptors - Terrence Ross (Guard - Washington Huskies)
9. Detroit Pistons - Andre Drummond (Center - Connecticut Huskies)
10. New Orleans Hornets - Austin Rivers (Guard - Duke Blue Devils)
11. Portland Trail Blazers - Meyers Leonard (Center - Illinois Fighting Illini)
12. Houston Rockets - Jeremy Lamb (Guard - Connecticut Huskies)
13. Phoenix Suns - Kendall Marshall (Guard - North Carolina Tar Heels)
14. Milwaukee Bucks - John Henson (Forward - North Carolina Tar Heels)
15. Philadelphia 76ers - Maurice Harkless (Forward - St. John's Red Storm)
16. Houston Rockets - Royce White (Forward - Iowa St. Cyclones)
17. Dallas Mavericks - Tyler Zeller (Center - North Carolina Tar Heels)
18. Houston Rockets - Terrence Jones (Forward - Kentucky Wildcats)
19. Orlando Magic - Andrew Nicholson (Forward - St. Bonaventure Bonnies)
20. Denver Nuggets - Evan Fournier (Guard - France)
21. Boston Celtics - Jared Sullinger (Forward - Ohio St. Buckeyes)
22. Boston Celtics - Fab Melo (Center - Syracuse Orange)
23. Atlanta Hawks - John Jenkins (Guard - Vanderbilt Commodores)
24. Cleveland Cavaliers - Jared Cunningham (Guard - Oregon St. Beavers)
25. Memphis Grizzlies - Tony Wroten Jr. (Guard - Washington Huskies)
26. Indiana Pacers - Mile Plumlee (Forward - Duke Blue Devils)
27. Miami Heat - Arnett Moultrie (Forward - Mississippi St. Bulldogs)
28. Oklahoma City Thunder - Perry Jones II (Forward - Baylor Bears)
29. Chicago Bulls - Marquis Teague (Guard - Kentucky Wildcats)
30. Golden State Warriors - Festus Ezeli (Center - Vanderbilt Commodores)

For NBA Draft 2012 news, follow our stream. Also visit SB Nation NBA and CelticsBlog.

NBA Draft 2012 Results: Boston Celtics Draft Jared Sullinger, Fab Melo At No. 21 And No. 22 Overall

NEWARK - Jared Sullinger and Fab Melo have been drafted by the Boston Celtics with the No. 21 and No. 22 overall picks in the 2012 NBA Draft on Thursday night in New Jersey. Sullinger is a forward from Ohio State and Melo is a center from Syracuse.

Sullinger opted to return to Ohio State this past season despite the strong chance that he would be a high draft pick in the 2011 draft. Sullinger played two seasons with the Buckeyes, averaging 17.2 points and 10.2 rebounds while shooting 54.1 percent from the field this year. In his freshman season, Sullinger averaged 17.5 points and 9.2 rebounds.

Melo also spent two seasons at his school, but his season this year was cut short due to academic ineligibility which forced him to miss the NCAA Tournament. Melo averaged a disappointing 2.3 points and 1.9 rebounds in an average of 9.9 minutes played in his freshman year. This year, Melo improved, as he averaged 7.8 points and 5.8 boards.

For NBA Draft 2012 news, follow our stream. Also visit SB Nation NBA and CelticsBlog.

NBA Draft 2012 Results: Picks Nos. 11-20 From Thursday's Draft

The 2012 NBA Draft saw its first trade of the night, when the Dallas Mavericks traded their No. 17 overall selection, Tyler Zeller, to the Cleveland Cavaliers for the Nos. 24, 33 and 34 picks in the draft.

Mavs get the 24th, 33rd, and 34th pick from Cavs according to sources

— Chad Ford (@chadfordinsider) June 29, 2012

Several talented big men flew off the board in picks 11-20, starting will Illinois center Meyers Leonard at No. 11 to the Portland Trail Blazers. Picks 14-19 were all occupied by frontcourt players. The draft also saw its first international player selected in guard Evan Fournier from France.

You can check out the full list of players selected 11-20 below.

NBA Draft 2012 - Picks 11-20

11. Portland Trail Blazers - Meyers Leonard (Center - Illinois Fighting Illini)
12. Houston Rockets - Jeremy Lamb (Guard - Connecticut Huskies)
13. Phoenix Suns - Kendall Marshall (Guard - North Carolina Tar Heels)
14. Milwaukee Bucks - John Henson (Forward - North Carolina Tar Heels)
15. Philadelphia 76ers - Maurice Harkless (Forward - St. John's Red Storm)
16. Houston Rockets - Royce White (Forward - Iowa State Cyclones)
17. Dallas Mavericks - Tyler Zeller (Center - North Carolina Tar Heels)
18. Houston Rockets - Terrence Jones (Forward - Kentucky Wildcats)
19. Orlando Magic - Andrew Nicholson (Forward - St. Bonaventure Bonnies)
20. Denver Nuggets - Evan Fournier (Guard - France)

For NBA Draft 2012 news, follow our stream. Also visit SB Nation NBA and CelticsBlog.

NBA Draft Results 2012: Jeremy Lamb Drafted No. 12 Overall By Jeremy Lamb

NEWARK - Jeremy Lamb, a 6-foot-5 guard-forward from the University of Connecticut, has been drafted No. 12 overall by the Houston Rockets in the 2012 NBA Draft on Thursday night at the Prudential Center. Lamb played two seasons with the Connecticut Huskies and was part of UConn's national championship-winning team two seasons ago.

Lamb played 75 total games for Connecticut and averaged 14.1 points and 4.7 rebounds in an average of 32.1 minutes per game during his UConn career. Last season, Lamb averaged a career-best 17.7 points and shot 47.8 percent from the field. During the Huskies' title-winning year -- also his freshman season -- Lamb averaged 11.1 points.

Lamb is a long, athletic swingman who gets around well without the ball and is a multi-faceted offensive player, shooting well from mid-range while also being able to drive.

For NBA Draft 2012 news, follow our stream. Also visit SB Nation NBA and CelticsBlog.

NBA Draft 2012 Results: Picks Nos. 1-10 From Thursday's Draft

NEWARK - Anthony Davis was this year's top pick in the 2012 NBA Draft on Thursday night at Prudential Center, as the premier center from the University of Kentucky was drafted by the New Orleans Hornets. Below are the top ten picks in this year's draft.

NBA Draft 2012 - Top Ten Picks

1. New Orleans Hornets - Anthony Davis (Center - Kentucky Wildcats)
2. Charlotte Bobcats - Michael Kidd-Gilchrist (Forward - Kentucky Wildcats)
3. Washington Wizards - Bradley Beal (Guard - Florida Gators)
4. Cleveland Cavaliers - Dion Waiters (Guard - Syracuse Orange)
5. Sacramento Kings - Thomas Robinson (F - Kansas Jayhawks)
6. Portland Trail Blazers - Damian Lillard (Guard - Weber State Wildcats)
7. Golden State Warriors - Harrison Barnes (Forward - North Carolina Tar Heels)
8. Toronto Raptors - Terrence Ross (Guard - Washington Huskies)
9. Detroit Pistons - Andre Drummond (Center - Connecticut Huskies)
10. New Orleans Hornets - Austin Rivers (Guard - Duke Blue Devils)

For NBA Draft 2012 news, follow our stream. Also visit SB Nation NBA and CelticsBlog.

NBA Draft 2012 Results: Austin Rivers Drafted No. 10 Overall By New Orleans Hornets

Duke Blue Devils guard Austin Rivers was selected with the No. 10 overall pick of the 2012 NBA Draft by the New Orleans Hornets on Thursday night.

Rivers, son of Boston Celtics head coach Doc Rivers, had been shooting up draft boards in recent days. Austin Rivers is considered perhaps the best shooting guard in the draft outside of Florida's Bradley Beal, who was drafted No. 3 overall by the Washington Wizards. The Celtics were rumored to be looking to trade up into the lottery on draft day in hopes of acquiring the talented shooting guard.

While the Hornets struggled at times last season, Rivers will earn the privilege of teaming up with No. 1 overall pick Anthony Davis out of Kentucky. Davis is considered one of the surest of sure things in the NBA Draft in some time.

For more 2012 NBA Draft coverage check out SB Nation's live pick-by-pick analysis, as well as SBN Boston's StoryStream for a larger focus on the region.

NBA Draft Results 2012: Andre Drummond Drafted No. 9 Overall By Detroit Pistons

NEWARK - Andre Drummond, the 6-foot-10 center from the Connecticut Huskies, was drafted No. 9 overall by the Detroit Pistons in the 2012 NBA Draft on Thursday night at the Prudential Center. Drummond played one season at Connecticut and established himself as a top tier center.

Drummond averaged 10.0 points, 7.6 rebounds and 2.7 blocks this season for the Huskies. In addition, Drummond shot 53.8 percent from the field and averaged 28.5 minutes per game in his lone collegiate season.

While not comparable to No. 1 overall pick Anthony Davis, Drummond has drawn high praise for his athleticism. For a player as big as he is, nearly seven feet tall and 270 pounds, he moves very well up and down the court. His offensive game needs work, according to scouts, but he has the potential to become a solid player.

For NBA Draft 2012 news, follow our stream. Also visit SB Nation NBA and CelticsBlog.

NBA Draft 2012 Results: Anthony Davis, Michael Kidd-Gilchrist Highlight Top Five Picks

NEWARK - It seems like some way or another, history is always being made in the NBA. Thursday night was no exception, as for the first time in history, teammates were selected back-to-back with the first two picks of the NBA Draft. Anthony Davis and Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, both from the Kentucky Wildcats, were the drafted No. 1 and No. 2 respectively, in the 2012 NBA Draft on Thursday at the Prudential Center.

Davis was the consensus No. 1 overall pick, and he was selected by the New Orleans Hornets. Kidd-Gilchrist, however, was not projected by most experts to go as high as he did in the draft. He was drafted by the Charlotte Bobcats. Below are the first five picks.

NBA Draft 2012 - Top Five Picks

1. New Orleans Hornets - Anthony Davis (Center - Kentucky Wildcats)
2. Charlotte Bobcats - Michael Kidd-Gilchrist (Forward - Kentucky Wildcats)
3. Washington Wizards - Bradley Beal (Guard - Florida Gators)
4. Cleveland Cavaliers - Dion Waiters (Guard - Syracuse Orange)
5. Sacramento Kings - Thomas Robinson (F - Kansas Jayhawks)

For NBA Draft 2012 news, follow our stream. Also visit SB Nation NBA and CelticsBlog.

NBA Draft 2012 Results: Anthony Davis Drafted No. 1 Overall By New Orleans Hornets

Anthony Davis was the first player to hear his name called in the 2012 NBA Draft on Thursday night at the Prudential Center, as the 6-foot-10 center from the University of Kentucky was selected No. 1 overall by the New Orleans Hornets, as expected.

Davis, the Associated Press College Basketball Player of the Year, anchored Kentucky's national championship-winning team in his freshman season, averaging 14.3 points, 10.0 rebounds and 4.7 blocks during the regular season. After winning the national title, Davis declared for the NBA Draft and was instantly labeled the premier talent of this year's draft.

Davis, a 19-year-old Chicago native, returns to the site of Kentucky's championship, New Orleans, now as a member of the Hornets. New Orleans, which was owned by the NBA this season, won the draft lottery. The Hornets already have two centers, Chris Kaman and Darryl Watkins, but Davis will almost certainly usurp their minutes right from the start.

For NBA Draft 2012 news, follow our stream. Also visit SB Nation NBA and CelticsBlog.

NBA Draft 2012: Boston Celtics Eyeing Austin Rivers On Draft Day

The Boston Celtics have reportedly been looking to move into the lottery at the 2012 NBA Draft. According to sources Thursday evening, Duke guard Austin Rivers, son of head coach Doc Rivers, is the target of the Celtics' potential move.

Austin Rivers has apparently become a hot commodity of late. He projects around the No. 10 spot in the draft. Tom Ziller tabbed him at No. 13 to the Phoenix Suns in his latest mock draft, but Adrian Wojnarowski reports that the New Orleans Hornets may be ready to snatch Rivers if he drops to No. 10.

A lot could happen in the coming hours and minutes. The Doc-Austin Rivers dynamic would certainly be a fascinating one to watch. Austin Rivers gave his thoughts at the 2012 NBA Draft Combine in Chicago:

"It's a father-son relationship, and then it also turns father-son and coach-player, so it would just be an interesting balance of how we'd have to balance that out," Rivers said. "I don't know if anybody has done that before seriously where it's been a serious thing. I just don't know how that would work."

For more on the Celtics and the 2012 NBA Draft, check out CelticsBlog and stay tuned to SB Nation Boston.

NBA Draft 2012: Greetings From The Prudential Center In Newark

NEWARK - The stage is set, the test run has been completed, and we're almost ready to roll here inside the Prudential Center, the site of the 2012 NBA Draft, which begins at 7 p.m. ET on Thursday night. Oh, right, where are my manners... hello and welcome to the draft!

Right now, the room is quiet, with some staff members working away to make sure everything goes right when the draft begins and the nation tunes in. Let me tell you, the arena looks fantastic. See for yourself with this photo I took this afternoon.

Of course, the draft won't start for another few hours (as of now, three and a half hours -- yeah, I got here at noon. Side note, I just walked around and enjoyed the scenery inside the arena for about an hour when I got here. I felt like a kid on Christmas morning!), but we already know who will have his named called first: Anthony Davis, center from Kentucky.

After that, well, who knows?

This I do know: I will be here all night covering the draft for SB Nation Boston, including the Boston Celtics' three (at the moment) selections: No. 21 overall, No. 22 overall and No. 51 overall. I'll be live Tweeting the draft (@GethinCoolbaugh) and posting updates all night right here, so be sure to check back frequently! Get ready, NBA fans. This will be fun.

For NBA Draft 2012 news, follow our stream. Also visit SB Nation NBA and CelticsBlog.

2012 NBA Mock Draft: Royce White, Fab Melo Projected To Boston Celtics

In his latest 2012 NBA Mock Draft at SB Nation, Tom Ziller projects the Boston Celtics to select Royce White of Iowa State and Fab Melo of Syracuse, respectively, with pick Nos. 21 and 22 in Thursday night's NBA Draft.

White, a 6-foot-8, 270-pound power forward, averaged 13.4 points, 9.3 rebounds and 5.0 assists during his lone season at Iowa State. He has been rumored to have received a promise to get picked by the Celtics if he's still on the board at that juncture of the draft, but general manager Danny Ainge rejected the notion that he has offered any promises.

Melo, a 7-footer, was named the Big East's Defensive Player of the Year after averaging 7.8 points, 5.8 rebounds and 2.9 blocks as a sophomore at Syracuse. He projects to be a defensive presence, but his offensive game requires a lot of polish.

The Celtics are reportedly looking to move up into the lottery.

For NBA Draft 2012 news, follow our stream. Also visit SB Nation NBA and CelticsBlog.

NBA Draft Rumors 2012: Andrew Nicholson 'Unlikely To Get Past' Boston Celtics, According To Report

If Andrew Nicholson is still on the board at pick No. 21 in Thursday night's 2012 NBA Draft, he is "unlikely to get past" the Boston Celtics, according to a Yahoo! Sports report.

The Celtics' potential to draft Nicholson hinges on a number of factors. They are reportedly in the hunt to package Nos. 21 and 22 (and perhaps other assets) in exchange for a lottery pick, so they might not have their late first-round pick with which to select the 6-foot-10 big man from St. Bonaventure. It's also entirely possible that Nicholson gets selected prior to Boston's picks, even if the Celtics hold onto their current ones.

Nicholson possesses an inside-outside game that some scouts have likened to David West's. He is not seen as having as much upside as certain less-polished prospects, but was both efficient and productive while leading St. Bonaventure to the school's first NCAA tournament appearance in 12 years.

For NBA Draft 2012 news, follow our stream. Also visit SB Nation NBA and CelticsBlog.

NBA Draft 2012: TV Schedule, Time, Order, Location And More

Draft day is here! Danny Ainge and the Boston Celtics have three draft picks entering this year's NBA Draft, which will take place in Newark, NJ for the second consecutive year.

Event: National Basketball Association Draft 2012

Date/Time: Thursday, June 28, 2012 - 7:00 p.m. ET.

Location: Prudential Center, Newark, New Jersey.

Broadcast Information: This year's draft will be televised nationally on ESPN.

Order: The complete order for the 2012 NBA Draft can be viewed on NBA.com.

Celtics Draft Picks: Boston has three draft picks entering Thursday's draft, including two first-round selections. Boston owns the No. 21 and No. 22 overall picks in the first round and the No. 51 overall pick (No. 21 in the second round).

Celtics In 2011 Draft: Last year, Boston had two selections in the draft. At No. 25 overall, the team drafted MarShon Brooks, but traded him to the New Jersey Nets for JaJuan Johnson (Purdue). Boston also drafted E'Twaun Moore (Purdue) at No. 55 overall.

For NBA Draft 2012 news, follow our stream. Also visit SB Nation NBA and CelticsBlog.

NBA Draft Rumors 2012: Boston Celtics Trying To Move Up, According To Report

The Boston Celtics want to move up in the 2012 NBA Draft. At least that is the latest word from Yahoo Sports' Adrian Wojnarowski, who said on Thursday morning that the Celtics are looking to deal their way up into the first 14 picks, the lottery picks.

Boston is aggressively working to move up into the late lottery, if not higher, league sources tell Y!. Celtics own No. 21 and 22 picks.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@WojYahooNBA) June 28, 2012

Because this is the Boston Celtics, trade talk comes as no surprise. Celtics general manager Danny Ainge has a reputation for seeking out a trade. Whether or not he can find any takers remains to be seen. Boston currently has trade ammunition with the 21st and 22nd picks in the draft.

The 2012 NBA Draft starts at 7:00 p.m. Eastern on Thursday night. Expect plenty more trade talk to circulate ahead of the big event.

For NBA Draft 2012 news, follow our stream. Also visit SB Nation NBA and CelticsBlog.

2012 NBA Mock Draft: Chad Ford Scenario Has Celtics Taking Jared Sullinger

The 2012 NBA Draft happens Thursday night, capping off weeks of rumor and speculation. The Boston Celtics have two picks in the first round, No. 21 and No. 22, which could prove to be a big part of keeping the team competitive in the seasons ahead. Chad Ford of ESPN rolled out his final mock draft on Thursday morning. Here is what he predicted for the Celtics.

With the 21st pick, Ford goes with Royce White. His take:

Position: SF
Height: 6-foot-8
Weight: 261 pounds
Age: 21
School: Iowa State
Analysis: I think White is a good fit in Boston. As long as coach Doc Rivers can buy into what White is (a ball handling power forward) and figure out how to play him, he could be a steal at this point in the draft.

Trade Scenarios: It's Danny Ainge. He's talking to everyone. But I think the most likely scenario has them standing pat here.

With pick No. 22, Ford sees the Celtics taking Jared Sullinger.

Position: PF
Height: 6-foot-9
Weight: 268 pounds
Age: 20
School: Ohio State
Analysis: I'm not sure when the bleeding will end for Sullinger, whose stock is falling now that concerns about his back have every GM in the league a bit skittish. But since the Celtics have two picks, they can afford to take the risk here. It will be a good one. Sullinger can play and he may be the best low-post scorer in the game.

The draft starts at 7:00 p.m. Eastern on Thursday night.

For NBA Draft 2012 news, follow our stream. Also visit SB Nation NBA and CelticsBlog.

2012 NBA Draft Order: Celtics Have Three Picks On Thursday Night

The Boston Celtics have three picks entering Thursday night's 2012 NBA Draft, which begins at 7 p.m. ET inside the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey (TV: ESPN).

Boston enters the draft with two first round selections at No. 21 and No. 22 overall. Their only other pick is the No. 51 overall selection (No. 21 pick in the second round). Last year, the Celtics had two draft picks and landed JaJuan Johnson and E'Twaun Moore.

The New Orleans Hornets have the first overall pick in the draft, and will most likely select Kentucky center Anthony Davis. The Charlotte Bobcats, Washington Wizards, Cleveland Cavaliers and Sacramento Kings round out the top five picks. The complete draft order for Thursday's draft can be viewed on the NBA's website.

For NBA Draft 2012 news, follow our stream. Also visit SB Nation NBA and CelticsBlog.

NBA Draft 2012: Celtics Readying For Future As Draft Day Arrives

Draft day is finally here, and Danny Ainge and the Boston Celtics will be hard at work trying to set themselves up for future success in the 2012 NBA Draft, which begins at 7:00 p.m. ET on Thursday evening at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey (TV: ESPN).

Boston enters the night with three draft picks and two in the first round. The Celtics own the Nos. 21 and 22 overall picks as well as the No. 51 overall pick (No. 21 in the second round).

Last year, the Celtics had two draft picks, one in the first and another in the second. Boston drafted MarShon Brooks out of Providence College at No. 25 overall, but traded him to the New Jersey Nets for Purdue forward JaJuan Johnson, who was drafted by Nets at No. 27. Boston then proceeded to draft Johnson's teammate, E'Twaun Moore, at No. 55.

By virtue of winning the NBA Draft lottery, the New Orleans Hornets -- who were recently sold by the NBA to Tom Benson -- own the first overall pick in the draft, and they will use it to draft center Anthony Davis of the Kentucky Wildcats. Davis is universally considered the best prospect in this year's draft, which has been called the deepest draft in years.

For NBA Draft 2012 news, follow our stream. Also visit SB Nation NBA and CelticsBlog.

NBA Draft Rumors 2012: Andre Drummond Hearing He'll Be Drafted In Top 7

Former UConn center Andre Drummond told reporters on Wednesday afternoon that he expects to be drafted somewhere among the first seven picks in Thursday's 2012 NBA Draft.

Via In Storrs Now:

"I've heard anything from two to six, two to seven," Drummond said.

The top draft spot, which belongs to the New Orleans Hornets, is considered a lock to be used on Anthony Davis. But Drummond is a candidate to go anywhere else in the top 10.

The 6-foot-10, 18-year old said he has lost 22 pounds in the months leading up to the draft while working out with highly-respected trainer Idan Ravin, who is also known as The Hoops Whisperer. In addition to his private workouts, Drummond has strutted his stuff for five teams.

"Portland, Sacramento, Cleveland, Charlotte, Washington," he says, rattling the teams off quickly.

After averaging 10.0 points and 7.6 rebounds during his lone season at UConn, Drummond is seen as a high-risk, high-reward player. Though he has a rare mixture of athleticism and size, concerns exist about his work ethic and polish.

Drummond hears the criticism, but says he doesn't pay it any mind.

"I'm not really worried about that. I'm just going to come in and work hard, all that stuff about me being a bust is going to be put to rest," Drummond said.

"Whatever team I go to, in preseason all that talk will be put to rest," Drummond said. "I am a hard-worker. There's nothing wrong with my motor."

For more on the UConn Huskies, visit The UConn Blog.

NBA Draft 2012: Celtics Interested In Moving Up, Haven't Made Promise

In a draft this deep, you'd be crazy if you didn't want to move up. That's certainly Danny Ainge's logic, as the President of Basketball Operations of the Boston Celtics told reporters on Wednesday that he is certainly interested in moving up in this Thursday's draft if the price is right. Boston currently has the No. 21 and No. 22 overall picks inthe first round.

Ainge: "I've said from the beginning this is a deep draft...I think it is worth trading up but it all depends on the price."

— Boston Celtics (@celtics) June 27, 2012

Ainge also said that the Celtics have their prospect list in order (they better by now, right?), and that the team has not made any promises to anyone, contrary to reports that they had promised Royce White that they would draft him if he fell to Boston at the end of the first round.

#Celtics president Danny Ainge: As general rule do not make draft promises, have not made one this year.

— Scott Souza (@scott_souza) June 27, 2012

The draft takes place on Thursday night in Newark, NJ.

NBA Draft Rumors 2012: UConn's Jeremy Lamb Met With Milwaukee Bucks, Couldn't Work Out Due To Ankle Injury

Former UConn guard Jeremy Lamb met with the Milwaukee Bucks on Tuesday but was not able to workout for the team due to an ankle injury. Lamb suffered the ankle injury several weeks ago but aggravated the injury on Monday while working out for the Trail Blazers (via JS Online).

Lamb said the Bucks knew about the injury but wanted to meet with him nonetheless. "It went pretty good (in Portland). I fought through it but it's real sore. It swelled up a little bit. They (the Bucks) knew I was hurt but they still said I should come in, and that's great."

Bucks assistant general manager Jeff Weltman said about Lamb meeting the team: "Unfortunately things are so fluid this time of year and injuries are part of the process. He (Lamb) probably shouldn't even have gone yesterday. It was to the point where it would have been fruitless to have him on the court. But he wanted to let us know he was serious about us and wanted to follow through with the visit. We had breakfast with him this morning."

Lamb is expected to be a Top 15 pick on NBA Draft night on Thursday and has been invited to the Green Room.

For more on the UConn Huskies, visit The UConn Blog.

2012 NBA Mock Draft: Boston Celtics Projected To Take Royce White, Fab Melo

In his latest 2012 NBA Mock Draft at Draft Express, Jonathan Givony projects the Boston Celtics to select Royce White of Iowa State and Fab Melo of Syracuse, respectively, with the 21st and 22nd picks in the 2012 NBA Draft.

White, a 6-foot-8 power forward with perimeter skill, has been rumored to have received a promise from the Celtics if he falls to their spot in the draft. The 21-year old averaged 13.4 points, 9.3 rebounds and 5.0 assists during his lone season at Iowa State.

Melo was named the Big East Defensive Player of the Year after averaging 7.8 points, 5.8 rebounds and 2.9 blocks during his sophomore season. The seven-footer projects as a defensive presence in the NBA, but there are questions about whether he can develop the rest of his game.

For more on the Celtics, please be sure to visit our site CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.

2013 NBA Draft: Boston Celtics Granted Extra Pick Due To Jeff Green's Heart Condition

The Boston Celtics have been granted an extra 2013 second-round draft pick from the Oklahoma City Thunder as a result of a dispute regarding Jeff Green's heart condition, according to a report from Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo! Sports.

Green was traded to the Celtics with Nenad Krstic and a 2012 first-round pick in exchange for Kendrick Perkins and Nate Robinson in February of 2011. After averaging 9.8 points and 3.3 rebounds per game over 26 regular season games with Boston, Green re-signed with the Celtics for one year and $9 million prior to the 2011-12 season.

But a routine examination discovered a heart issue, and Green's contract was voided after it was determined that he required surgery to repair an aortic aneurysm. He missed the entire season to rehabilitate.

The 6-foot-8 forward is an unrestricted free agent this summer, and the Celtics are expected to show interest. But Green's agent has said there are 12-14 teams in pursuit.

For more on the Celtics, please be sure to visit our site CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.

NBA Draft 2012: UConn's Andre Drummond, Jeremy Lamb Get Green Room Invites For Draft Night

Former UConn stars Andre Drummond and Jeremy Lamb have reportedly gotten Green Room invites for the 2012 NBA Draft on Thursday at the Prudential Center in Newark, N.J. (Draft Express' Twitter).

Drummond and Lamb will join 11 other players in the Green Room as they wait for their name to be called on draft night.

Here are the other Green Room invitees:

Anthony Davis, Thomas Robinson, Bradley Beal, Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, Harrison Barnes, Damian Lillard, Dion Waiters, Austin Rivers, John Henson, Tyler Zeller, Meyers Leonard.

Getting a Green Room invite means that a prospect will likely be selected in the Top 15 of the NBA Draft. Teams projected to pick Drummond in recent mock drafts have included the Portland Trail Blazers and Detroit Pistons while Lamb has been slotted to go to the Phoenix Suns and the Toronto Raptors in the latest mocks.

For more on the UConn Huskies, visit The UConn Blog.

2012 NBA Draft Rumors: Royce White's Promise From Boston Celtics Denied By Report

Several reports have indicated that the Boston Celtics made a 2012 NBA Draft promise to Royce White of Iowa State, but David Aldridge of NBA.com reported to the contrary on Monday.

Aldridge cited a source who claimed the Celtics have not made any promises to select White if he falls to their first-round picks (No. 21 and No. 22), and that the Celtics were actually turned down when they attempted to have White visit for a workout last week.

White, a burly, 6-foot-8 power forward with enough perimeter skill to be used as a point-forward during his lone season at Iowa State, is perceived to have top-10 talent. But concerns regarding his personality -- he has anxiety disorder, a severe fear of flying on airplanes, and a criminal record (he pleaded guilty to shoplifting charges while at the University of Minnesota before leaving the school amid suspicion that he was involved in a campus laptop theft) -- should make him available in the latter half of the first round.

For more on the Celtics, please be sure to visit our site CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.

2012 NBA Mock Draft: Celtics Linked To Royce White With 1st Pick

The Boston Celtics don't pick early thanks to another winning season, but they'll have their chances to get a future star in the 2012 NBA Draft. In the mock version, SB Nation has the Celtics taking Royce White and Moe Harkless with the 21st and 22nd picks overall.

Jeff Clark of CelticsBlog made both selections, and Boston fans should be thrilled with this haul if it presents itself on Thursday night.

White is a bit of an enigma with off-the-court concerns, but his talent is undeniable. At this point in the draft, it might be impossible to look past the risk/reward. The 6-foot-8 forward could be a nice compliment to the other pieces already in place on Doc Rivers' squad.

The second pick of the back-to-back selections is another man who only played one year in college. Harkless was a star at St. John's and would fit in nicely as a role player to start his career. Harkless has a big-man's size with a smaller man's shooting touch from the outside. He's not a three-point shooter, but he can definitely extend the defense.

For more on the Celtics, please be sure to visit our site CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.

NBA Draft Rumors: Andre Drummond To Be Drafted By Portland In Latest Mock Draft

With the NBA Draft less than a week away, most pundits are cleaning up their final mock drafts as they get ready for the real thing on June 28. UConn C Andre Drummond has been pegged as a lottery selection throughout the selection process, and SI.com's Sam Amick has Drummond going sixth overall to the Portland Trail Blazers.

Here is Amick's take on the pick:

Lillard could be the pick because the Blazers need a point guard. But new general manager Neil Olshey knows the importance of quality young big men as much as anyone, having built his former Clippers team around the frontcourt of Blake Griffin and DeAndre Jordan. The question, of course, is whether Olshey and the rest of the front office believe that Drummond can be an impact player sooner rather than later. Franchise centerpiece LaMarcus Aldridge has three seasons left on his deal, and it's safe to assume that everyone in Portland -- from owner Paul Allen on down -- wants to turn things around during that time. Drummond has major upside and great size and athleticism, but he continues to scare most executives as the draft's most unpredictable talent.

Amick has fellow UConn player Jeremy Lamb going in the lottery, with the wing heading to the Phoenix Suns with the 13th overall pick.

Whether it winds up being Lamb, Waiters, Rivers or Washington's Terrence Ross, it seems clear that the Suns would like to add an explosive, dynamic shooting guard with this pick. Lamb is a smooth scorer with good size (6-5¼ with shoes, 6-11 wingspan) and athleticism (38-inch vertical jump), though he needs to add some bulk.

NBA Draft Rumors 2012: Celtics Promise To Take Royce White At No. 21 If He Falls, According To Report

The Boston Celtics have reportedly told Iowa State's Royce White that they will select him at No. 21 overall in the 2012 NBA Draft if the power forward falls that far. Chad Ford announced the promise between White and the Celtics via Twitter Thursday night.

More on Royce White. Now hearing more definitely promise is from Celtics at 21.

— Chad Ford (@chadfordinsider) June 22, 2012

If Tom Ziller's latest NBA Mock Draft is any indication, White should be available when the Celtics make their first selection. Prior to Thursday's news, Ziller had White going No. 25 to the Memphis Grizzlies.

White averaged 13.1 points, 9.2 rebounds and 5.1 assists per game with the Cyclones last season. He helped ISU to a win over UConn in the second round of the 2012 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament, putting up 15 points and 13 rebounds.

For more on the Celtics, please be sure to check out our site Celtics Blog and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.

NBA Draft Rumors 2012: Detroit Pistons Interested In Andre Drummond In Latest Mock Draft

Former UConn center Andre Drummond was once again taken in the top ten of a 2012 NBA Mock Draft. In the latest SB Nation NBA Mock Draft, Drummond was projected to go to the Detroit Pistons at No. 9.

Here's what Tom Ziller said about the selection:

"As I remain convinced that Lillard and Marshall will go inside the top 10, I'm pretty confident that Drummond will drop. 'Unskilled with an embattled reputation as a hard worker' isn't a red flag. It's a poison label. But at some point in the first round, the potential reward outweighs the risk. I think it's right around here. (And I think Ben Wallace gets hired as a big man coach specifically to work with Drummond on everything but free throws.)" (via SB Nation)

Ziller also thinks the Trail Blazers could take Drummond at No. 6.

For additional NBA Draft 2012 coverage, follow along with our draft StoryStream.

2012 NBA Mock Draft: Chad Ford Projects Boston Celtics To Select Andrew Nicholson, Moe Harkless

The Boston Celtics are rumored to be interested in packaging their two first-round picks to move up in the 2012 NBA Draft.

If they don't, projects Chad Ford in his latest 2012 NBA Mock Draft, they could use the two picks to select Andrew Nicholson of St. Bonaventure and Moe Harkless of St. John's.

PICK	TEAM	PLAYER	VITALS
	Boston	Andrew Nicholson	Position: PF Height: 6-foot-10 Weight: 234 pounds Age: 22 School: St. Bonaventure

Analysis: Nicholson is another draft sleeper who may really rise with workouts. He's a big stretch 4 who has drawn some comparisons to David West. He would be another welcome addition to the Celtics' summer makeover.

PICK	TEAM	PLAYER	VITALS
	Boston (via Clippers)	Moe Harkless	Position: SF Height: 6-foot-9 Weight: 207 pounds Age: 19 School: St. John's

Analysis: The Celtics get a pretty safe pick with Nicholson at No. 21 and then roll the dice a bit with Harkless at No. 22. He's long and athletic and he can put the ball on the floor and get to the basket. If the team is going to start rebuilding, they'll need to nail a few of these late picks like they did with Rajon Rondo and Avery Bradley.

The upcoming draft is critical to Boston's future, as the Celtics have only four players currently under contract for the 2012-13 season. Danny Ainge will certainly spend a considerable amount of time on his cell phone during the weeks leading up to the draft as he looks to position the Celtics for the future. But if the Celtics keep their two first-round picks, they would really benefit from finding a contributor or two.

For more on the Celtics, please be sure to check out our site Celtics Blog and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.

NBA Draft 2012 Rumors: Could Jared Sullinger Fall To Boston Celtics?

Jared Sullinger could have been a top five draft pick had had entered the NBA Draft one year ago. Instead, Sullinger decided to stay at Ohio State for one more year and nearly reached the NCAA National Championship Game. However, it appears as if his decision to stay may have cost him dearly, as doctors have red flagged Sullinger due to back problems.

Despite the reassurances of people close to Sullinger, including his father and coach at Ohio State, many are expecting Sullinger's draft stock to plummet, possibly dropping him out of the first round entirely. That opens the door for some teams, like the Boston Celtics, to draft the former projected lottery pick with their two selections late in the first round.

Boston is in desperate need of productive big men as it begins to transition away from the Big Three era, and Sullinger certainly fits that mold. Sullinger averaged 17.6 points and 9.3 rebounds this year in his sophomore season. His numbers were similar in his sophomore year, as he averaged 17.2 points and 10.2 rebounds while shooting 54.1 percent.

Sullinger's back was put to the test at the NBA Draft Combine, leading doctors to alert teams to consider bypassing him early in the draft. While all teams, the Celtics included, should consider the doctors' advice, Sullinger is too talented for a team with a specific need for a big man to pass up. We're talking about a guy who could have been the top pick last year. Health concerns aside, if Sullinger is healthy, he is exactly what Boston needs.

If he should fall down the draft board, don't be surprised to see Danny Ainge make Sullinger the newest member of the Celtics with either the No. 21 or No. 22 overall pick in the draft.

For additional NBA Draft 2012 coverage, follow along with our draft StoryStream.

NBA Mock Draft 2012: Celtics Select Moe Harkless And Fab Melo

The 2012 NBA Draft is less than two weeks away, but it's an important date for the recently-eliminated Boston Celtics – who own two late first round picks.

On paper, this year's draft is much deeper than 2011, and there will assuredly be plenty of talent available when the Celtics select at 21 and 22.

Jonathan Givony, of DraftExpress.com, recently published a mock draft for Yahoo! Sports. Here's who he has the Celtics taking:

21. Boston
Moe Harkless SF
19 years old; 6'8"; 208 lbs., St. John's, Freshman

The Celtics are ushering in a new era, with a big chunk of their roster entering free agency and a great deal of cap room opening up. Danny Ainge has never had a problem swinging for the fences for a talented prospect with significant long-term upside, and Moe Harkless fits that description perfectly.

22. Boston (via LA Clippers)
Fab Melo C
21 years old; 7'0"; 250 lbs., Syracuse, Sophomore

Boston's entire frontcourt is entering free agency seemingly, making a physically developed 7-footer like Fab Melo an attractive proposition at this stage in the draft. His defensive mentality will fit in well with Boston's culture.

For more on the Celtics, please be sure to check out our site Celtics Blog and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.

NBA Mock Draft 2012: UConn's Jeremy Lamb Projected To Phoenix Suns

In SI's latest 2012 NBA Mock Draft, UConn guard Jeremy Lamb has been projected to be selected by the Phoenix Suns with the No. 13 pick of the first round.

Here's what SI's Sam Amick said about the Suns picking Lamb (6-5, 179) at No. 13:

"While Waiters could be gone before the Suns have a chance to grab him, there is no shortage of talented two-guards from which to choose. Lamb is a smooth and athletic scorer (38-inch vertical) whose 6-11 wingspan gives him serious upside on the defensive end, too. He's jockeying for position here with Ross, whom I had going to Phoenix in Mock 1.0." (via SI)

Amick mentions Syracuse's Dion Waiters in his description of Lamb as the Suns are reportedly interested in the former Orange guard. It may still be possible for Lamb to go in the top ten of the draft. A mock draft at the end of May had Lamb to the Raptors who hold the No. 8 selection. SI had Lamb lower in an early mock, going to the Rockets at No. 16.

For more on the UConn Huskies, visit The UConn Blog.

NBA Mock Draft 2012: UConn's Andre Drummond Projected To Portland Trail Blazers

In the latest SI 2012 NBA Mock Draft, UConn center Andre Drummond was projected to go to the Portland Trail Blazers with the No. 6 selection.

Given their horrors with their Greg Oden pick in 2007, you might think they would be wary of taking another center in the draft. SI's Sam Amick says they will ignore their fears and take Drummond anyway.

"The Blazers ignore those recurring nightmares about Greg Oden and opt for another big man with huge upside in Drummond. New general manager Neil Olshey won't be able to expect the instant stardom he experienced with the Clippers' Blake Griffin (after missing a season with a knee injury), but Drummond could be a potent partner to franchise cornerstone LaMarcus Aldridge. Drummond's raw skills and body are a major reason for his value, and his measurements at the combine did nothing to change that. He weighed 278 pounds with 7.5 percent body fat, and was 6-11¾ with shoes with an incredible 7-6¼ wingspan. As for the athleticism department, Drummond overstated his own prowess when he told reporters that he jumped about 38 inches. In reality, his jump was just 33½ inches." (via SI)

The Sacramento Kings are also reportedly considering Drummond with the No. 5 pick.

For more on the UConn Huskies, visit The UConn Blog.

Celtics Draft Rumors: Boston Linked To Moe Harkless In Mock Draft

With the 2012 NBA Draft coming up on June 28th, the Boston Celtics have to move on from their heartbreaking defeat in the Eastern Conference Finals and focus on the future.

General Manager Danny Ainge has two consecutive picks to work with in the first round (21st and 22nd) and will need to execute them wisely to rebuild this aging team.

Over at ESPN.com, NBA expert Chad Ford has the Celtics selecting Moe Harkless or St. John's and Andrew Nicholson of St. Bonaventure respectively with their two selections.

Harkless only played one year for the Red Storm but looks like a promising small forward who can rebound and shoot the ball with some consistency.

Nicholson on the other hand is a four-year college athlete who can dominate offensively because of his length. He's 6' 9'' and only 220 pounds, leaving a lot of room for him to grow into his lanky frame.

Both would be welcome additions on a team desperate for some youth to surround Rajon Rondo with.

For more on the Celtics, please be sure to check out our site Celtics Blog and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.

NBA Mock Draft 2012: Celtics Select Fab Melo, From Syracuse

The last thing the Boston Celtics are concerned with is the 2012 NBA Draft, as they have their sights set on Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Finals, and an eventual trip to the NBA Finals.

But while the NBA Playoffs continue, the NBA Draft approaches. Scheduled for June 28, the draft is now less than three weeks away.

The Boston Celtics own two first round picks – the 21st and 22nd. Draft Express recently published a mock draft, and here's who they have the Celtics selecting with their two first rounders:

21. Fab Melo, Center, Syracuse

22. Quincy Miller, Small Forward, Baylor

DX also has the the C's selecting offensive point guard, Scott Machado, in the second round.

For more on the Celtics, please check out our site Celtics Blog and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates. And for more from around the world of college hoops, check out SB Nation's NCAA basketball news hub.

NBA Mock Draft 2012: Boston Celtics Projected To Select Fab Melo, Royce White

In Sports Illustrated's latest 2012 NBA Mock Draft, Sam Amick projects the Boston Celtics to take Syracuse's Fab Melo and Iowa State's Royce White, respectively, with the 21st and 22nd picks.

Melo was named the Big East Player of the Year after averaging 7.8 points, 5.8 rebounds and 2.9 blocks. The seven-footer anchored Syracuse's 2-3 zone defense, but was ruled ineligible for the NCAA tournament as Syracuse ultimately lost in the Elite Eight.

White was named the Big 12 Newcomer of the Year after averaging 13.4 points and 9.8 rebounds for the Cyclones. Though scouts love the bruising 6-foot-8 power forward's skill set, he has anxiety issues and past legal concerns that are white flags for prospective employers. He initially went to the University of Minnesota, but withdrew from the school amid suspicion that he was involved in a laptop theft.

For more on the Celtics, please check out our site Celtics Blog and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates. And for more from around the world of college hoops, check out SB Nation's NCAA basketball news hub.

NBA Mock Draft 2012: UConn's Jeremy Lamb Projected To Toronto Raptors

In Yahoo's latest 2012 NBA Mock Draft, draft expert Jonathan Givony projects UConn's Jeremy Lamb to be selected eighth by the Toronto Raptors.

A smooth perimeter player with the length and athleticism to create shots in the NBA, Lamb averaged 17.7 points and 4.9 rebounds as a UConn sophomore this past season.

Though it's easy to forget because he spent the last two seasons very much in the public eye, Lamb is only 19 years old and has plenty of room to grow. That, combined with his already-impressive production, makes Lamb very intriguing to NBA scouts.

According to Givony, Lamb would fill a hole in Toronto:

While the Raptors anxiously await the arrival of their 2011 lottery pick, Jonas Valanciunas, next season, they have a chance to plug another hole. Finding a successor to starting point guard Jose Calderon, who is entering the final year of his contract, is a priority, especially considering that Valanciunas will need to have offense created for him, at least initially. The Raptors' wing rotation also looks unsettled, with DeMar DeRozan still unable to find a consistent jump shot, and very little starting material around him. One solution might be to pick Jeremy Lamb, one of the most talented scorers in the draft, and move DeRozan to small forward.

And for more from around the world of college hoops, check out SB Nation's NCAA basketball news hub.

NBA Mock Draft 2012: UConn's Andre Drummond Projected To Detroit Pistons

In SB Nation's latest 2012 NBA Mock Draft, Tom Ziller projects that UConn's Andre Drummond will be selected by the Detroit Pistons with the ninth pick.

Drummond could go as high as No. 2 thanks to his phenomenal athletic ability, but an uneven freshman year at UConn has scouts wondering whether Drummond is polished enough to make an immediate impact in the NBA. That uncertainty could leave him to be selected later in the lottery, where, writes Ziller, some team might find a gem.

I'm eager to hear where Drummond's floor ends up. If he impresses Geoff Petrie with raw talent, it could be No. 5 at the Kings. If he has a less successful pre-draft run, it could be Detroit at No. 9 ... or worse. He's a big ol' mystery right now. I'm not sure Lawrence Frank (cue the Brook Lopez drop) is the right coach, or that Drummond is the right partner in crime for Greg Monroe. But remember that the Pistons desperately wanted Cousins in '10, despite the warts. A similar situation could be in place, and if Drummond drops, it could end up paying huge dividends for a not-bad Detroit team.

The 6-foot-10, 270-pound center averaged 10.0 points, 7.6 rebounds and 2.7 blocks during his lone season with the Huskies.

And for more from around the world of college hoops, check out SB Nation's NCAA basketball news hub.

NBA Mock Draft 2012: Boston Celtics Muscle Up With A Pair Of Picks

The Boston Celtics have two picks in the first round of the 2012 NBA Draft. A recent post-lottery mock predicts which direction they might go in June.

NBA Mock Draft 2012: Boston Celtics Linked To Meyers Leonard

With the 2012 NBA Draft only about a month away, the mock drafts are starting to pop up.

DraftExpress.com does an excellent job at this, and they've linked the Boston Celtics with center Meyers Leonard of Illinois with their first pick.

With the following selection, the Celtics are mocked to take Evan Fournier, a guard/forward combo from France. In the second round, Tu Holloway from Xavier is being taken by Boston according this write-up.

Leonard would make sense on a few levels. The first is the Celtics' obvious need for a center. Kevin Garnett can play there if he has to, but he's much better suited for the power forward role. Even if Leonard just turned out to be quality depth, that would be a boon to Boston considering its struggling bench.

Fournier is only 19-years-old, but can really shoot and shows considerable touch from the outside. At 6-foot-7, the France native is an intriguing pick in the latter stages of the first round.

Holloway starred at Xavier University for a program that has churned out nice players like James Posey and David West recently. Holloway has always shown a knack for making the big play at the right time, so maybe he could fit in as a key reserve.

For more on the Celtics, please be sure to visit our page Celtics Blog and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.

NBA Draft Lottery 2012: Time, TV Schedule And More For This Year's Lottery

When the ping pong balls stop jumping around, Anthony Davis will know what the future holds for him.

It will most likely be the greatest player (and the worst owner?) of all-time if the percentages hold true. He'd be headed to Michael Jordan and the Charlotte Bobcats on Wednesday night in the 2012 NBA Draft Lottery.

Of course, the percentages are far from a sure fire bet. If you remember, the Chicago Bulls had less than a one percent chance to land Derrick Rose out of Memphis, but that's the way it worked out.

Unlike most years, the draft is chock full of real talent through the first ten selections or so, but the big prize is Davis, the freshman sensation from the University of Kentucky.

It's always fun to watch the team executives who are forced to sit there after abject failure the prior year, desperate to keep their jobs while wishing for that oasis that is the number one selection.

The lottery is always great theater, unless you're the unfortunate soul or fan base who should take the top pick but ends up with the fifth selection.

Here is a full list of the percentages each team has for the first overall selection:

Charlotte Bobcats: 25.0%

Washington Wizards:19.9%

Cleveland Cavaliers: 13.8%

New Orleans Hornets: 13.7%

Sacramento Kings: 7.6%

Brooklyn Nets: 7.5%

Golden State Warriors: 3.6%

Toronto Raptors: 3.5%

Detroit Pistons: 1.7%

Minnesota Timberwolves: 1.1%

Portland Trail Blazers: 0.8%

Milwaukee Bucks: 0.7%

Phoenix Suns: 0.6%

Houston Rockets: 0.5%

TV: ESPN

Time: 8:00 p.m. ET

For more on the NBA Draft Lottery, please be sure to check out SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.

NBA Mock Draft 2012: Boston Celtics Projected To Pick Meyers Leonard At No. 21

The Boston Celtics may pick Illinois center Meyers Leonard at number 21, according to the most recent mock draft from Draft Express. The athletic 7-footer would be a project pick as some experts consider him to be unpolished on both offense and defense.

Other mocks have him going sooner in the draft as Centers with his size and athleticism tend to be chosen higher in the draft. Boston would be a good spot for Leonard however as Kevin Garnett is reaching the end of his contract in Boston.

The Sophomore averaged 13.6 points per game in his final season in Illinois. He also averaged 8.2 rebounds and showed defensive prowess with 1.9 blocks per game. Leonard would benefit from Boston's defensive philosophy as their 89.3 points allowed was ranked second in the Eastern conference.

For more on the Celtics, please check out our site Celtics Blog and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates. For more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball, head over to Hail to the Orange. And for more from around the world of college hoops, check out SB Nation's NCAA basketball news hub.