Chances are the Celtics will be watching Rasheer Fleming closer than other draftees.
The Phoenix Suns acquired the rights to the St. Joseph’s wing given they reportedly made a trade with the Minnesota Timberwolves before the second round of the 2025 NBA Draft on Thursday night. Phoenix added Fleming with the 31st overall pick, the first selection in the second round.
Brad Stevens and company reportedly intended to draft Fleming with the 32nd overall pick.
“Why did the Suns move up tonight to No. 31? Because I’m told the Celtics were going to take Rasheer Fleming, from St. Joseph’s, at No. 31,” NBA insider Shams Charania said on the ESPN broadcast Thursday night.
Fleming was considered the best available player when the second round started.
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After being jumped by Phoenix, and with Fleming off the board, the Celtics traded back from No. 32. The Orlando Magic gave up three additional second-round picks, including Nos. 46 and 57 as well as second-rounders in 2026 and 2027. It represented quite a haul for the Green.
Boston eventually added Kentucky big man Amari Williams with the 46th pick and VCU guard Max Shulga at No. 57. Both players were technically drafted by the Magic given the trades aren’t yet official — an always comical misfire by the league.