The Lakers' pick watch was fun while it lasted but shifting focus to the Celtics own pick, there are a bunch guys projected in the late first that I'm interested in. None of them have a lot of upside, but guys who can contribute on rookie scale contracts are really valuable, and I think there are some safe plays.
Jevon Carter- generally projected as a second rounder, but he's just such a wrecking ball on D that I'd be happy to have him. On-ball defense is Avery Bradley-like, and I suspect he's a better team defender, but like Bradley, is probably limited to defending PGs due to his size. Can pass and shoot. Old and undersized, but he's smart and absolutely relentless. If Smart is too expensive, Carter's a guy who can come in a play as a rookie and make life miserable for opposing guards.
Jalen Brunson- Maybe the 2018 version of Malcolm Brogdon/Josh Hart. Upperclass PoY candidate who'll be able to run the offense for spells and knock down 3s. Great shooter, really heady.
Gary Trent Jr.- Another smart player who's a great shooter, except he's 6'6 and 19. Not athletic, but he does most things well and can really shoot.
Landry Shamet- Rich man's RJ Hunter? One of the best shooters in college but a slight frame. Solid passer, low turnovers but more of a two than a PG. Good wingspan, but doesn't really rack up steals.
Killian Tillie- Fits a modern archetype as a big who can shoot and defend the perimeter. Not a lot of bigs I like late in this draft, and Ainge tends to just pick serviceable bigs off the FA scrapheap, but Tillie is 6'10, agile enough to defend the PnR, and shooting 39% from 3 (only 84 attempts, but nice looking stroke) and 79% from the line in his college career.
Bruce Brown and De'Anthony Melton are guys that I like in theory, but haven't really seen enough of to have an opinion about.