As the Boston Celtics prepare for a future beyond Al Horford, the team is eyeing potential replacements who can bring fresh energy and skills to the court. The 38-year-old Horford, having just clinched his first championship, is nearing the end of his storied career. With that in mind, the Celtics are scouting new talent who could step into the big man’s shoes. Among these prospects, JT Toppin the Next Big Thing could play a pivotal role. Here’s a look at five intriguing prospects from the 2025 NBA Draft who might just be the key to the Celtics’ next chapter.
Is JT Toppin the Next Big Thing for the Celtics? The 2025 Draft’s Hidden Gem
1. JT Toppin – Texas Tech: The Rising Star
JT Toppin, currently making waves at Texas Tech, is a player to watch. Projected as a late first-round pick, Toppin’s journey has been anything but conventional. After transferring from New Mexico, he’s ready to prove himself in his sophomore year. Standing 6-foot-9, Toppin possesses the physical attributes needed for an NBA big man. Although his three-point shooting needs work, his boundless energy and potential make him a compelling project for the Celtics.
2. Jarin Stevenson – Alabama: The Defensive Dynamo
At 6-foot-10, Jarin Stevenson offers a significant size advantage and a knack for three-point shooting, despite a shaky freshman season. With only 16.6 minutes per game in his debut year, Stevenson is poised for a breakout season at Alabama. His defensive prowess and evolving perimeter game could make him a late first-round steal, and his potential alignment with Boston’s needs is intriguing.
3. Adou Thiero – Arkansas: The Diamond in the Rough
Adou Thiero represents a bit of a gamble. Still developing after two years with the Arkansas Razorbacks, Thiero’s growth on both ends of the floor is evident. His increased playing time last season and solid rebounding ability show promise. Although his three-point shooting is minimal, Thiero’s defensive skills and potential could make him a valuable late first or early second-round pick for the Celtics.
4. Trevon Brazile – Arkansas: The Versatile Weapon
Another Arkansas standout, Trevon Brazile, brings versatility and a solid three-point shooting ability to the table. After a year at Missouri and two productive seasons with the Razorbacks, Brazile has showcased his athleticism and shooting skills. Though projected to be a middle-second-round pick, his older age and impressive performance might make him an appealing option for the Celtics.
5. Carey Booth – Illinois: The Mobile Big Man
Carey Booth is an emerging talent who will make his mark at Illinois after a freshman year at Notre Dame. Known for his mobility and defensive prowess, Booth’s shooting ability is still developing. Standing out in the late first-round projections, Booth could be an asset for the Celtics if he continues to refine his game. His fit with Boston’s style of play makes him a player to keep an eye on.
The Celtics are in a prime position to revamp their roster with promising talent. Each of these prospects offers unique attributes that could complement Boston’s evolving strategy. From Toppin’s potential and Stevenson’s size to Thiero’s raw defensive talent and Booth’s versatility, the 2025 NBA Draft could be a goldmine for the Celtics. As Horford’s era winds down, these rising stars could usher in a new era of Celtics basketball.
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