I have spent far too much time studying this, but I am going on record as saying this is the guy I want the Celtics to draft. I do not care if we stay at 21 and 22 and pick him then, or if we can drop back a few picks, get another asset of some sort and get him then.
The more I watch film, not just highlight reels but actual replays of games the more I like this kid. I live in Houston and two of the schools here, Rice and University of Houston, are in C-USA with Memphis so I have had the opportunity to watch a lot of replay games and this kid can play. He puts up very solid numbers in every category. His mid range game and finishing ability is outstanding. I have visions of the C's going small with Jeff Green at PF, Barton at the 3, Bradley and Rondo in the back court while either Hollins or Williams play the five while we give KG and PP a rest. It would be a tremendous line up that would maintain defensive intensity while still putting points up which we desperately need. Every way you look at his game it is productive, even when you start talking about by pace adjustment and other factors. He rebounds well, does not turn the ball over, gets to the foul line, is a bawl hawk, everything.
He could be a better long range shooter and needs to get bigger and stronger but for where we are picking I think we have to take him. Look, if some other players stunningly slip then fine, that would be great. However I think that chance is slim and considering that we need a guy who can swing between the 2 and 3 coming off the bench, Will Barton should be our guy.Thoughts?