NBA Mock Draft: LaMelo Ball jumps back up to No. 1; Warriors make a big trade

NBA Draft prospect LaMelo Ball (Photo by Ian Hitchcock/Getty Images)
NBA Draft prospect LaMelo Ball (Photo by Ian Hitchcock/Getty Images)
14 of 30
NBA Draft
NBA Draft RJ Hampton (Photo by Anthony Au-Yeung/Getty Images)

14. Boston Celtics – RJ Hampton, G, New Zealand

There’s a good chance that the Boston Celtics could end up trading this pick, but if they keep it there’s a chance that they could target a potential offensive spark that RJ Hampton could be for the team next season. Hampton was one of the highly touted prospects coming out of college but seemed to cool off after electing to play overseas rather than in college.

He’s done well to rebuild some of that draft stock and could sneak into the lottery. Hampton has good size, athleticism, and is known for being a streaky scorer. If he can consistently hit the 3-point shot, there’s a chance he could grow into being a very effective player at the NBA level.

With the Celtics, I’m not sure there’s a better landing spot. He could learn behind Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown and develop at the pace that he needs to. There wouldn’t be too much expectation and that’s how he’ll be more effective.