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Sources told Sporting News on Wednesday morning that the Boston Celtics have expressed interest in Texas center Mohamed Bamba. According to Sporting News, the Celtics interviewed Bamba at the pre-draft combine just two weeks ago.
NBA trade rumors: Celtics interested in Mo Bamba, could move up in draft, SN sources say https://t.co/GPZMyUyLrd
— Sean Deveney (@SeanDeveney) May 30, 2018
Bamba is a rim-protecting force with a 7-10 wingspan, who’s expected to be one of the top picks this year’s draft. He averaged 12.9 PPG, 10.5 RPG, and 3.7 BPG, while shooting 54% in his only season at Texas.
Boston owns the 27th overall selection in this year’s draft, in addition to several future assets. It would take more than just picks to trade into a slot high enough to choose Bamba, however. The Memphis Grizzlies (#4) and the Dallas Mavericks (#5) have both said that they are willing to deal away their lottery picks for the right return.
The Celtics would have to pay a very steep price to trade up for Bamba, so take this rumor with a grain of salt.
The 2018 NBA Draft takes place on Thursday, June 21 at 7:00 PM EST.