Celtics’ June Draft Predictions from WHO Experts

The Celtics have begun their offseason, a period where significant moves often occur across the NBA. The upcoming NBA Draft, a key event in this phase, is scheduled for later in June, with Round 1 on June 25 and Round 2 the following day.

Boston has two selections in the draft: the 28th pick in the first round and the 32nd in the second round. Given the late position for their first pick and early second-round pick, Celtics president of basketball operations Brad Stevens seems to be anticipating limited choices compared to what teams might typically expect.

“This year’s draft class has been notably influenced by NIL and pay-for-play agreements,” Stevens told NBC Sports Boston’s Chris Forsberg. “The financial incentives at some schools surpass what players might earn at the end of the first round. It’s positive for them.”

Stevens’s insight gained credence when 50 early entrants withdrew from the 2025 NBA Draft, many of whom were anticipated to be late first-round selections. Nevertheless, the Celtics are expected to have a wide array of options when it’s their turn to draft.

Yahoo! Sports’ Kevin O’Connor: Arkansas F Adou Thiero (Round 1), Real Madrid (Spain) G/F Hugo Gonzalez (Round 2)

Thiero had an outstanding junior year after transferring from Kentucky to Arkansas, averaging 15.1 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game with good shooting percentages. O’Connor suggests he could fit well into the Celtics’ system due to their track record of developing shooters.

ESPN: Le Mans (France) F Noah Penda (Round 1), Ratiopharm Ulm (Germany) G Ben Saraf (Round 2)

ESPN’s analysts have projected the Celtics to select two international players, believing Penda could be retained or allowed to develop while Jayson Tatum recovers from injury. Penda has shown solid performance in France, indicating he could be a valuable asset.

USA Today: Florida G Walter Clayton

USA Today foresees the Celtics picking Clayton, who had an impressive NCAA Tournament, averaging 22.3 points per game and earning the Most Outstanding Player award. Although his season averages are still respectable, improvements in playmaking and defense could enhance his fit with the team.