The NBA Draft is rapidly approaching. One clear need for the Boston Celtics is more big man depth, as Kristaps Porziņģis, Al Horford, and Luke Kornet all have uncertain futures with the team. With picks No. 28 and 32, the Celtics have an opportunity to bolster their big man depth. Michigan’s Danny Wolf is perhaps the most unique player in this draft and a clear target for the Celtics. During Wolf’s junior season at Michigan, he posted averages of 13.2 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 3.6 assists on 49.7/33.6./59.4 shooting splits. He played his previous two seasons at Yale. Wolf’s passing vision and ability to handle the ball separate him from other big men. Let’s dive into Wolf’s game and fit with the Celtics.
Celtics’ Draft Targets: One of a Kind Big Man is a Clear Fit
Wolf’s Playmaking Makes Him a Unique Prospect
At 6-foot-11, Wolf took on a lot of point guard duties and was the team’s main ball handler next to Tre Donaldson. Wolf operated as a ball handler in the pick-and-roll frequently, which showcased his impressive passing vision. He also threw deep passes in transition and made plenty of reads on drive-and-kick plays. Wolf’s passing ability and versatility make him stand out, especially given his size. In addition to his 3.6 assists, Wolf posted a 22.8 assist rate.
The game is trending toward everyone being able to handle to ball, making skilled players like Wolf more valuable. Wolf’s ball handling also allows him to create his own shot at a high level. Having a big man who can handle the ball, make passes, and create shots is a luxury. Furthermore, Wolf’s screening helps open up the game for his teammates. The Celtics have built an elite offense under head coach Joe Mazzulla, and Wolf would be an ideal fit for this offense. It would be interesting to see how a big man with Wolf’s skill set would be utilized in Mazzulla’s system. Wolf’s 25.7 net rating this past season highlights his immense overall value.
Danny Wolf was one of the most unique players in college basketball, shouldering significant point guard responsibilities at 7-feet, Igniting fast breaks, creating out of PNR, passing and finishing skillfully with both hands, his skill-level and creativity stood out all season. https://t.co/JgaKI2xZ6Z pic.twitter.com/lgwV3sVtZn
— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) April 16, 2025
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The Rest of Wolf’s Game
Wolf only shot 33.6 percent on 3.1 attempts from beyond the arc for his college career. Nevertheless, Wolf can space the floor and is respected as a shooter. This, paired with his impressive all-around skill set, makes Wolf an elite offensive prospect. One knock from Wolf’s critics is his 3.2 turnovers per game last season. However, his role in the offense needs to be considered. In the NBA, Wolf won’t be a de facto point guard, but he’ll handle the ball and playmake when needed. As a result, the best aspects of Wolf’s playmaking will be highlighted. Ultimately, Wolf is a gifted offensive prospect with a combination of the ability to make an immediate impact and tons of upside.
While Wolf is a high-level rebounder, leading the Big Ten with 9.7 boards per game, there are concerns about his defense. Wolf’s lack of speed and switchability make his defense a massive question mark at the NBA level. As a result, he could fall in the draft a bit. Regardless, with his rare offensive skill set, Wolf is certainly worth taking a look at for the Celtics.
The Last Word
The chances are that at least one of Porziņģis, Kornet, and Horford won’t be back next season. Consequently, the Celtics are likely to target a big man in the draft. Wolf’s playmaking and shot-creation abilities would give the Celtics a different element, both from the current big men and other draft options. A player like Creighton’s Ryan Kalkbrenner would offer a familiar skill set as a rim protector and lob threat. However, Wolf’s unique offensive skill set makes him a clear target for the Celtics. With Jayson Tatum missing at least the start of the season, it’s a good time to experiment with someone like Wolf. It’s unclear if Wolf will be available at pick 28; he is projected to go anywhere from late lottery to early second-round. Nevertheless, Wolf’s rare offensive game makes him a clear target for the Celtics, and if he’s available, they will consider drafting him.
Featured image: © Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images
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