The Boston Celtics are already looking ahead to next season after an early playoff exit, and one NBA analyst believes they have their sights set on a dynamic two-way wing to share frontcourt duties with Jayson Tatum.

Following a surprising Game 7 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers in the first round, the Celtics are evaluating roster moves that could bring them back into championship contention. While several paths exist to strengthen the lineup, CBS Sports' Adam Finkelstein suggests that the 2026 NBA Draft could be the key.

In a mock draft released Tuesday, Finkelstein predicts Boston will select Alabama forward Amari Allen with the 27th overall pick. "Allen is a versatile wing who has an overlap of skill and toughness," Finkelstein wrote. "He's a good handler, passer, potentially better shooter than his numbers indicate, and a big-time wing rebounder."

The 6-foot-8 forward brings an intriguing blend of production and potential. During his lone season with the Crimson Tide, Allen appeared in 32 games (24 starts), averaging 11.4 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game. While his defensive game is still developing, scouts praise his innate competitiveness—a quality that fits perfectly with Boston's hard-nosed identity.

Interestingly, Allen's decision to enter the draft raised some eyebrows, as many analysts believed another year in college could have polished his game further. There's still a possibility he withdraws after the scouting combine, but if he stays in the draft, the Celtics could land a player who complements Tatum's scoring with rebounding, playmaking, and defensive tenacity.

For a team that prides itself on versatility and two-way play, adding a wing like Allen could be the perfect low-risk, high-reward move to bolster the frontcourt rotation. Whether he becomes a rotation piece right away or develops behind Boston's established stars, this draft pick signals the Celtics are thinking long-term while staying competitive now.