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.
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