Don’t Sleep On These NBA Draft Prospects Linked To Celtics

The Boston Celtics are preparing for the 2025 NBA Draft with two valuable picks and a chance to strengthen what’s already one of the NBA’s deepest rosters.

Boston owns selections No. 28 and 32, giving the team a shot to add affordable rotation help while navigating the NBA’s salary aprons and potential offseason roster changes. Brad Stevens’ recent late-round picks have paid off — Payton Pritchard was taken 26th overall in 2020, and Baylor Scheierman, drafted 30th last year, showed promise down the stretch.

Walter Clayton Jr. could be an option. The Florida product shot over 43% from three during the Gators’ NCAA title run and earned Final Four Most Outstanding Player honors. Though undersized and not known for his defense, he fits the mold of past Celtics contributors, as noted by Zack Cox of the Boston Herald.

Stanford’s Maxime Raynaud brings length and floor spacing. The 7-footer led the ACC in rebounds while expanding his range, hitting 34.5% from deep. His defensive foot speed is a concern, but he offers valuable size if Boston’s frontcourt changes. Cox detailed his strengths and limitations.

Adou Thiero profiles as an athletic wing who plays fast, defends hard, and crashes the boards. His jump shot remains a work in progress, but he’s drawn comparisons to physical Celtics wings of the past, according to Cox.

French wing Noah Penda offers high IQ and two-way potential. Still just 20, he impressed with his poise and passing in LNB Élite. Creighton’s Ryan Kalkbrenner, a 7-foot shot blocker, brings interior presence and efficient finishing but lacks perimeter range.

The draft begins June 25. With two picks in hand, Boston could find cost-controlled help at a crucial time.