I've got a feeling that number three or four is where we're destined to be at - the top of the second tier, but ultimately missing out on the star talent of this draft. And as the ultimate kick in the groin to us ardent followers of the Brooklyn Nets over this past season, Phoenix will win it all from the number four spot.
So I see either of the following scenarios:
1: Phoenix
2: Philly
3: Boston
4: Philly (via Lakers)
OR
1: Phoenix
2: Philly
3: Lakers
4: Boston
The perfect scenario would be something like:
1: Boston
2: New Orleans
3: Philly (via Sacramento)
4: Sacramento (via Philly)
5: Philly (via Lakers)
6: Phoenix
Then Boston offers up a package based around the number one pick (among other things) for Anthony Davis, and New Orleans agrees in order to build around the wings Ingram and Simmons for the future rather than losing Davis in three years! Banner 18 here we come, baby!
I was with you till the end there.
My best case scenario is the Celts get #1 and Danny commences to construct the team around Simmons, with the aim of peaking in three or four years when Simmons does, while still competing in the meantime.
Second best scenario is the Celts get #3 or #4 and trade the pick along with a couple other assets, e.g. Bradley and Young, for Okafor. Philly then uses the pick to select the playmaking guard they so desperately need.
I will content myself with #4 or 5 and the Celts taking Murray, Dunn, or Hield. The guard jumble, along with half a dozen other issues, will need to be addressed over the summer.
Just please by Golly don't let Ainge select Jaylen Brown with a top 5 pick.