The Boston Celtics are already looking ahead to the future, and according to a new mock draft, they may have their eyes on a dynamic young forward to shake up their frontcourt. Following Sunday's NBA Draft Lottery results, ESPN's Jeremy Woo released a two-round mock draft projecting the Celtics to select Alabama's Amari Allen with the 27th overall pick.

Allen, a freshman standout for the Crimson Tide, brings a "versatile" skill set that could fit seamlessly into Boston's system. "Allen's positional versatility and ability to augment lineups on both sides of the ball give him a path to finding a long-term NBA role," Woo wrote. While his 3-point shooting (34.1%) and shot creation need refinement, his playmaking flashes and defensive instincts provide a solid foundation. The Celtics, known for valuing taller perimeter players, could afford Allen time to develop alongside their star core.

In 32 games this season, the 6-foot-9 forward averaged 11.4 points and 6.9 rebounds, showcasing his ability to impact the game on both ends. It's a bold move for Allen to enter the draft as a freshman, and he still has the option to return to school after the combine. But if he commits, Boston could land a raw yet promising talent who fits their mold of versatile, defensive-minded wings.

For Celtics fans, this pick signals a continued focus on building depth with young, adaptable players who can grow into rotational roles. Whether Allen becomes the next piece of Boston's puzzle or heads back to college, the draft buzz is already heating up.