Boston Celtics projected to take bouncy, rim-protecting big man in too-early 2025 mock NBA draft

While it is far too early for most of us to be thinking about the 2025 NBA draft, that is exactly what experts on the league’s annual event to replenish aging rosters with younger prospects have been up to of late. And such is the case for Bleacher Report NBA draft analyst Jonathan Wasserman.

Wasserman has put together a way-too-early (at least, for most of us anyway) mock draft for next summer’s big day. And he has a prospect in mind for the Boston Celtics to take with what is currently (and understandably, given their title defense) projected to be the 30th and final pick of the first round. If that prospect’s last name sounds familiar, it is because he is the younger brother of Indiana Pacers forward Obi Toppin, JT Toppin.

“Toppin doesn’t have the most modernized skill set, but NBA teams may deem his production worth buying, particularly if he builds on his 3-point shooting flashes,” suggests Wasserman,

“Toppin had some encouraging moments at the NBA combine, both around the basket and behind the arc,” adds the B/R draft expert.

“His potential to bring hustle buckets, rebounds, efficiency, defensive playmaking and possible floor spacing should eventually draw solid NBA interest.”

A 6-foot-9 swingman who hit 34.4% of his treys last season on low volume who put up 12.4 points, 9.1 rebounds, 1.1 steals, and 1.9 blocks per game, the New Mexico alum would be an excellent prospect for Boston to consider should he still be on the board when the Celtics pick.

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