Sam Amico: Celtics interested in Sullinger

[rondohondo]

- Jared Sullinger has been red-flagged by NBA doctors, who cited concerns with his back, and most GMs feel that it will, in fact, cause his draft stock to slide. Sullinger’s lack of overall athleticism had already created some doubts, and perceived medical issues certainly won’t help. That said, the Celtics reportedly wouldn’t mind giving him a shot, and might look to trade up (if necessary) to do so. Right now, they own the Nos. 21 and 22 picks in the first round.

http://www.foxsportsohio.com/06/19/12/NBA-Rumors--Draft-News-Day-10/landing.html?blockID=748790&feedID=3725

I wouldn't mind drafting him at all if he slips to 21, but not so sure I would trade up to get him.

What do you guys think ?

[Yogi]

Health issues aside, he's a 20/10 guy in the NBA.  Zach Randolph.

[rondohondo]

Health issues aside, he's a 20/10 guy in the NBA.  Zach Randolph.

no way, Randolph has superior post moves. To me Sullinger is somewhere in between BBD and David West.

[Yogi]

Health issues aside, he's a 20/10 guy in the NBA.  Zach Randolph.

no way, Randolph has superior post moves. To me Sullinger is somewhere in between BBD and David West.

He's 20.  He also has the most polished and physical post game in his class.

[cman88]

he's got potential all-star talent IMO...if he falls due to his health concerns I would grab him up in a heart-beat

I would LOVE this pick for the C's if he falls that far....even more if we can get him with #21 and can grab someone like Doron Lamb at #22

the C's would have a nice young core of Rondo, Bradley, sullinger

[Evantime34]

I'd love Sullinger, he can rebound, has great hands to catch Rondo and KG passes, can shoot and pass. I think while he loses weight his defense will improve.

[Celtics4ever]

Back issues and no athletic ability, no thanks.

[Who]

I'm sold. Happily give up the two picks for Sullinger.

Happy to trade up for Sullinger or M.Leonard.

[Mr October]

I imagine the Celtics could include a future 2nd and/or some cash to move up 3 or 4 spots with 1 of the 1st round picks. If thats all it takes, I'd pick him.

[cman88]

he's not athletic, but honestly I'll take skill over athleticism any time.

and any big with post moves like that would be Rondo's best friend.

[byennie]

IMO it would be a major coup for the Celtics if Sullinger dropped into their laps, as long as his potential problems are a few years out. We don't need him to be a cornerstone... if he's a 15/8 guy who clears a ton of space underneath in the short term that would be massively useful to us, especially on a rookie contract.

Draft Sullinger and open up our wallets for Hibbert or McGee and I think things get very interesting. I think we can afford to pay those guys with Rondo, Bradley, Moore, JJJ, Sullinger would all be making less combined than one max player for a couple more years.

A big man rotation of Garnett, Sullinger, Hibbert, Wilcox, JJJ, with Jeff Green able to play some 4, would be a lot for any team to match up with.

[bfrombleacher]

if he falls due to his health concerns I would grab him up in a heart-beat

"Health concerns"...I hate those two words. Aghh. They're like curse words to me now.

[fairweatherfan06]

He's NBA ready we need NBA ready I say get him

[ctrey]

I do not buy that we want him. That said he measures out almost exactly like Al Jefferson but with slightly better speed and jumping ability. I think if he is there at 21 then it is worth taking him. If he turns out to be as productive as a Bass or Davis then it is worth the contract cost at 21 as opposed to 6mill for Bass. However, I see no need to reach for him. I still think we need scoring and help at the 2 and 3 before help at the 4. As a side note, I will puke if we take any of the centers that may be around at 21 or 22. Fab Melo and Festus Ezeli are just flat out stiffs. Might as well get a C in the second round. Less money, basically same upside. I will call this draft no better than a "C" if we waste a first round pick on a center.

[ummidkme]

I wouldn't mind him if he drops and we get Royce White with the other pick. Not worth moving up at all. I'd prefer Jeff Taylor over him, even Nicholson and Harkless.