Why the Celtics might draft: Aaron Nesmith

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Among the many things impacted by the NBA’s ongoing hiatus is the 2020 draft. And there are layers to this issue, one being draft order.
Based on where the standings were when play first came to a halt, the Celtics would have three 2020 first-round picks: 17 (via Memphis), 26 and 30. Here’s a look at one of the players they could select in the first round:

AARON NESMITH, VANDERBILT

STATS: 23 PPG | 51.2 FG% | 52.2 3-PT%

Nesmith’s season was cut short by a foot injury, but he still managed to get off 115 3-pointers in 14 games — 60 fewer than he got off in 32 games as a freshman. So his 18.5% increased in long-range shooting efficiency from freshman to sophomore year wasn’t a fluke.

This 6-foot-6 wing can knock ‘em down from deep. And he can do so off of screens. In the long haul, Nesmith could work his way into a bigger role, but with his skill set, he has the making of the scoring option off the bench the Celtics need.

Of course, the big question mark is the condition of Nesmith’s foot. He received surgery in January, and the 19-year-old told 247 Sports he “expects to be cleared for live action in May.” The update teams receive during the pre-draft process will have an impact on his stock.

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