It’s almost summer, and while the Boston Celtics aren't on the court battling for a championship, don't think for a second they're just kicking back and relaxing. Nope, their focus has already shifted to the 2025 NBA Draft, which is coming up fast on June 25. This time of year is a whirlwind for every team, and the Celtics are no exception. They’ve been burning the midnight oil, bringing in a steady stream of hopeful young talent for workouts. Their scouting department is definitely putting in overtime, evaluating prospects for their two picks: No. 28 in the first round and No. 32 in the second. These aren't lottery picks, but they're incredibly valuable spots to unearth some hidden gems.
One name that's recently popped up on their radar, and confirmed by the player himself, is Gonzaga forward Ben Gregg. You might be thinking, "Who's that?" Well, that's exactly the kind of player the Celtics love to dig into. Gregg himself spilled the beans while at a workout for the Portland Trail Blazers, mentioning he was headed to Boston for a workout with the Celtics on Wednesday. That's big news for a young guy trying to break into the league! He's already been getting some preliminary feedback from other teams he's met with, which is a crucial part of this whole pre-draft process. It’s all about getting a feel for what teams are looking for and where he stands.
What Makes Ben Gregg an Intriguing Prospect?
So, what kind of player is Ben Gregg? He’s a 6-foot-10 forward who, in 35 games with Gonzaga last season, put up averages of 9.1 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 1.3 assists. Now, those aren't eye-popping numbers that scream "superstar," but remember, we're talking about a guy who could be a developmental project for the future. The Celtics have a history of taking players who might not be immediately ready but have the raw tools and potential to grow into valuable contributors down the line. Think about how they've developed players internally over the years. They’re not afraid to invest time and resources into someone they believe can make an impact.
Gregg himself highlights one of his key strengths, saying, "My ability to stretch the floor as a big man, that's been a strength of mine throughout these workouts." In today's NBA, a big guy who can shoot is gold. It opens up the offense, creates space for slashers, and forces defenses to adjust. This kind of versatility is super appealing to teams, especially those looking for complementary pieces. However, he's also upfront about an area he knows he needs to improve: NBA-level defense. "Guys at this level are so fast and athletic," he admitted. "So just being able to stay in front of quicker guys has been the main thing for me." That's a honest self-assessment, and it shows a level of maturity and understanding of what it takes to succeed at the next level. Every rookie has areas to work on, and recognizing them is the first step.
The Curious Case of His Three-Point Shot
Now, here's an interesting wrinkle in Gregg's profile: his three-point shooting. Last season, his numbers from beyond the arc took a hit, dipping to 27.1%. That's definitely not ideal, especially when he himself says stretching the floor is a strength. But here's the exciting part – his shooting percentages from the prior two campaigns tell a different story. He was hitting at a much more respectable 37.7%!
This is where the Celtics' scouting department really earns their keep. Was last season an anomaly? A slump? Or is it a sign of something more? Teams will dig into the mechanics of his shot, his shot selection, and his comfort level from NBA range. If they believe that 37.7% is closer to his true shooting ability, then that 6-foot-10 frame with a legitimate outside shot becomes a very, very attractive package. It’s that blend of size and potential shooting that makes for an intriguing mix for a player his size. He currently plays more in the midrange and is good at cutting to the basket, but that past success from deep means the potential is definitely there.
Where Does He Fit in the Draft Landscape?
Here's the kicker: most analysts aren't even mocking Ben Gregg in either round. That might sound like a bad thing, but for a team like the Celtics, it could be fantastic. This means he could be one of those unheralded guys they're keeping a close eye on. It’s entirely possible he’s a player Boston is considering signing if he doesn't get picked up by the end of the second round. Think of it as an opportunity to snag a valuable talent without having to use a draft pick. This often happens with players who have a specific skill set or an intriguing physical profile but might not have the overall polish to be a surefire draft pick.
Alternatively, if the Celtics decide to trade back from their No. 28 or No. 32 spot, Gregg could be a target in a later pick or as an undrafted free agent. It’s all about maximizing value and finding the right fit for their roster. The Celtics have shown a willingness to be patient with prospects, developing them in their G-League affiliate, the Maine Celtics, and bringing them along slowly. This could be the perfect scenario for a player like Gregg, who needs time to refine his game and adapt to the demands of the NBA.
The Celtics' approach to the draft often involves looking for players who might be slightly under the radar but possess a particular skill or physical trait that aligns with their team philosophy. They value players who can contribute within a system, play smart defense, and show versatility. Ben Gregg, with his size, potential to stretch the floor, and willingness to work on his weaknesses, certainly fits that mold. Keep an eye on his name as we get closer to June 25. The draft is always full of surprises, and the Celtics are known for making smart, calculated moves. It’s not always about the biggest names; sometimes, it’s about finding the right pieces to build a championship contender for the long haul.
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