Anton Watson selection by Celtics in the 2024 NBA Draft rated by experts

The Boston Celtics made their only pick of the second round of the 2024 NBA Draft by selecting Gonzaga forward Anton Watson. Celtics president of basketball operations Brad Stevens expressed his excitement about Watson’s potential during a press conference, highlighting his strength, lateral movement, and shooting ability. Stevens encouraged Watson to embrace his shooting skills and believes he can be a valuable asset for the team.

Standing at 6-foot-8 and weighing 225 pounds, Watson is known for his efficiency as a scorer and his prowess on the defensive end of the floor. He averaged 14.5 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game while shooting nearly 58 percent from the field and over 41 percent from beyond the arc. Watson’s defensive versatility and ability to guard multiple positions make him a good fit for the Celtics’ defensive system, which heavily relies on switching to defend pick-and-rolls.

Coming from a successful program at Gonzaga and benefitting from coaching by Mark Few, Watson is considered pro-ready due to his five years of experience in college. Experts have mixed opinions on the Celtics’ selection of Watson, with grades ranging from B+ to C. While some experts acknowledge his potential and fit with the team, others are more reserved in their assessment of his abilities. Ultimately, Watson’s impact on the Celtics will be determined by his performance on the court and how he adapts to the challenges of the NBA.