Sportstalk on Pick #22

[Way Of The Ray <wayray@ix.netcom.com>]

I'm hoping the Celtics move up in the draft.
They need to make a bold statement.
Complacency equals more mediocrity.

http://204.202.129.224/draft5.html

22. Boston Celtics
Likely picks: Trenton Hassell, Joe Forte, Gilbert Arenas, Jeff
Trepaigner, Omar Cook

This would be the Celtics third dip into the draft.   Assuming they go
big with one of their picks (its looking more and more likely that Pau
Gasol might not be around when the Celtics draft at 10) and address
their point guard situation with the 11th pick, expect the Celtics to go
after an athletic two guard here.

There should be several great prospects left on the board here.
Trenton Hassell is the most polished scorer and he has definite NBA
three point range.  Given what else is out there, Hassell is also the
tallest shooting guard prospect left on the board.  If the Celtics don't
mind going a bit smaller, both Joe Forte and Gilbert Arenas will
probably be here.  Forte is a more prolific scorer, but Arenas has the
body and the ability to get off his own shot.  Furthermore, Arenas has
shown the ability to slide over to the point guard position when needed.


The real sleeper here may be USC guard Jeff Trepaigner.  Trepaigner
wowed scouts in Phoenix at the Desert Classic and then put on an
impressive workout in LA.  Trepaigner hired a shooting coach and is
reportedly sinking the NBA three with regularity now.  Other than
Richard Jefferson, there is no better athlete in the draft.

If the Celtics decided to pass on Jamaal Tinsley, Omar Cook could also
go here.  Cook is the second best point guard prospect in the draft. He
has all of the slickness you want in a point guard, but really needs
help with his shot.