Celtics 2016 Draft Prospects: Kris Dunn

This is the first article in the series of the top Celtics draft prospects. Before getting into the breakdown of my top 10 players in this year’s NBA draft, we’re going to need to break down some ground rules that define how this list came to be. First and foremost: this is not a list of the top 10 talents in the draft, but instead is a list of the top 10 prospects that I believe would have the most positive impact on the Celtics organization moving forward. A second rule to remember is that this list assumes that the Celtics do not make any trades moving forward, and all speculation of whom the Cs may sign this Free Agency period has been removed as well. With that said, let me begin with a prospect who I like a lot, but not necessarily as a Celtic….

Kris Dunn – Providence PG

6’4”, 220 lbs: Junior

16 PPG, 6.4 APG, 5.5 RPG, 2.5 SPG

Although it would be a great story if the local kid from New London, Connecticut ended up wearing green to begin his career, it is difficult to imagine that fairy tale coming true. Dunn has game; there is no way around that, but how would he fit as a Celtic in Brad Stevens system? Dunn has size, strength, a long wingspan, is effective at getting to the free throw line, and is a great on ball defender. But on the flip side, he is turnover prone, he has a porous shot selection from outside, and his jumpshot (which is improving) is inconsistent at best. Now, does that remind you of anyone? Maybe someone who rocks number 36 in the Garden? While I think the Marcus Smart / Kris Dunn backcourt combination would give even the best guards in the league night-terrors, I have a difficult time imagining the Celtics opt to use our first pick in the draft on another guard – let alone one who is comparably similar to Marcus and is only 12 days younger. Kris Dunn is a baller and is poised to be a solid NBA point guard, but given the already crowded backcourt in Boston, it is my belief the Celtics would be better suited drafting a player who could add a new dimension to the roster.

Here are the highlights of when Dunn and Providence won at Georgetown earlier this season. This video shows off his full skillset as a talented ball handler and menacing defender. At the same time, you can see that while Dunn gets to the rim with ease and often is able to finish, he occasionally misses open players and isn’t always spot on with his passing.

Ignore Marcus launching threes all game and focus on his defense. Dunn and Marcus were both able to control the flow of the game while terrorizing opposing guards during their college careers. I actually just bumped Dunn a spot up my list after daydreaming about this defensive backcourt. I’m sold. Danny, get it done.

AUTHOR: JAMES G BLOUMBAS (@fever_green)