Celtics may have interest in Mo Bamba - could move up in draft


Many CelticsLife readers have have labeled a rebounder-rim protector as an important acquisition for the Boston Celtics.

Texas center, Mohamed Bamba may be that player. He is expected to be drafted in the 3-6 range in the upcoming NBA draft, well out of reach of Boston's 27th pick. Danny Ainge has apparently interviewed Bamba at the recent draft combine, and he may decide to work a trade to move up to grab Mo. Terry Rozier would be a likely candidate to be involved in such a trade, possibly along with other incentives in addition to Boston's first-round pick.

The Memphis Grizzlies currently hold the 4th pick in the draft. They are in rebuild mode, and their point guard, Mike Conley, will be 31 years old in October. The Dallas Mavericks hold the 5th pick and are also rebuilding, but they have a number of point guards, including young Dennis Smith, Jr. A trade with Dallas would most likely involve a third team.


Bamba is 7' tall and 225 pounds. He has an astounding 7'9" wingspan. He is a mobile big that can defend, rebound and block shots. He has a decent release on his shot and can probably become a reliable shooter at the NBA level. By all appearances, including his wide shoulders, he can most likely add some muscle to his frame.


Danny Ainge has many options at his disposal to give his already-talented team the boost it needs to get to the top again. A young big to work with Al Horford, Aron Baynes and Daniel Theis seems almost perfect. All four have size, mobility and are strong defensively. Bring back Kyrie Irving, Gordon Hayward, Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown (and possibly Marcus Smart) and, at least on the surface, the team seems close to unbeatable. Looks like one hell of a post-season rotation.

Follow Tom at TomLaneHC

Photo via Screengrab via ESPN2
Share