Experts have labeled the 2012 Draft as one of the deepest in a few years and The Celtics should find themselves in a nice position to catch a few falling 1st rounders, especially when it comes to talented big men. Because of KG's performance in the 2nd half of the regular season and The Playoffs fans are starting to become comfortable with the idea of Garnett coming back as Boston's center. That's a great plan and I'm completely with them on it, but that doesn't mean Ainge shouldn't be looking to take a skilled 7 footer in this draft. Just look at the work KG has put in with guys like Stiemsma and Hollins, imagine if he could tutor a young center with actual skill?
Meyers Leonard is one of the 3 big men I feel could provide Danny Ainge with the length and strength that his team has been missing in recent years. As of right now DraftExpress.com has Leonard going to Boston with the 21st pick but I've seen him on other drafts going about 6 picks higher or 4 picks later. Meyers is a 7'0, 240 lb, sophomore out of Illinois who shot 58% from the field, 73% from the line, and blocked just under 2 shots a game. Leonard's finish ability is great and he constantly looks to finish strong.
If picked up by Boston, Meyers could potentially play a big role as a rookie with a lot of The Celtics roster coming off the books. If Garnett returns next year Leonard could come off the bench and effectively replace the minutes currently held by Greg Stiemsma. On the other hand, if KG decides to hang it up or play elsewhere, Meyers would have an awful lot on his plate as a 20 year old rookie. Either way I feel that Meyers Leonard is a player who may not be the best right now but after a couple seasons I wouldn't be surprised if he's the best center from the 2012 Draft.
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