The Celtics currently hold the 27th pick in the 2026 NBA Draft and would benefit from bolstering their frontcourt. Boston should look to add a forward capable of maximizing Jayson Tatum’s potential.
In a recent mock draft published by Sam Vecenie of The Athletic, Boston selected Iowa State forward Joshua Jefferson with the 27th pick.
"Jefferson’s basketball IQ is exceptionally high, something that would play well in Boston under Joe Mazzulla’s scheme, where quick decision-making is critical," Vecenie wrote on Monday. "He defends well and makes fast decisions on that end, plus he passes exceedingly well. His range is seen as somewhere from the 20s into the early second round."
The 22-year-old forward played four seasons of college basketball, starting at Saint Mary's College for two seasons before transferring to Iowa State for two more. Jefferson recorded 16.4 points, 7.4 rebounds and 4.8 assists in 35 games this season. He was key to the Cyclones' success last season but missed his moment in March Madness. Jefferson suffered an ankle injury in the first round of the tournament, ending his season.
If the Celtics were to acquire Jefferson, they could use him at small forward, which would allow Tatum to lock into the power forward position. Standing at 6-foot-8, Jefferson could step into a starting wing role over the next few seasons, potentially making Boston incredibly athletic with Brown, Jefferson and Tatum in the lineup.
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