{"id":144863,"date":"2025-06-15T12:55:55","date_gmt":"2025-06-15T16:55:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/basketball\/?p=144863"},"modified":"2025-06-15T12:55:55","modified_gmt":"2025-06-15T16:55:55","slug":"celtics-draft-targets-drake-powell","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/basketball\/2025\/06\/15\/celtics-draft-targets-drake-powell\/","title":{"rendered":"Celtics Draft Targets: High Upside Two-Way Wing is a Worthy Gamble"},"content":{"rendered":"

The NBA Draft is nearing, and teams are zeroing in on specific prospects to target. The Boston Celtics are in an intriguing spot with the 28th and 32nd picks in the draft. Finding two quality contributors would be massive for the Celtics, given their historic payroll. While many of Boston’s targets are experienced college prospects<\/a>, they must also consider some high-upside young players. North Carolina’s Drake Powell <\/a>is one younger prospect worth targeting for the Celtics. Powell averaged 7.4 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.1 assists on 48.3\/37.9\/64.8 shooting splits during his lone season with the Tar Heels. Let’s dive into Powell’s game and fit the Celtics.<\/p>\n

Celtics Draft Targets: High Upside Two-Way Wing is a Worthy Gamble<\/h2>\n
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Mar 14, 2025; Charlotte, NC, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels guard Drake Powell (9) scores in the first half at Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Powell’s Impressive Two-Way Skill Set<\/h3>\n

Powell is one of the most impactful defenders in the draft. The 6-foot-6 wing boasts an impressive 7-foot wingspan, making him well-equipped to guard multiple positions at the NBA level. With a combine high 43-inch vertical, Powell is an elite athlete. He can shut down opponents on the ball and wreak havoc off the ball. Powell’s combination of athleticism, length, quickness, and IQ makes him a complete defender. Notably, opposing ball handlers shot just 32 percent when guarded by Powell. Additionally, No. 1 pick Cooper Flagg<\/a> was held to just four points while Powell was his primary defender across two games. Powell’s ability to guard multiple positions is highly impressive and will serve him well in the NBA.<\/p>\n

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Drake Powell has the potential to be the best wing stopper in this draft class.<\/p>\n

6\u20196, 7\u20190 wingspan. Opposing P&R ball-handlers shot 32% (!) when guarded by Powell. Exceptional screen navigation, physical tools + point-of-attack defense.<\/p>\n

99th %-ile in max + standing vert testing. pic.twitter.com\/wO0P7gAXfc<\/a><\/p>\n

— Mohamed (@mcfNBA) May 18, 2025<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n