2016 NBA Mock Draft: Ben Simmons Holds On To Number 1

Feb 23, 2016; Fayetteville, AR, USA; LSU Tigers forward Ben Simmons (25) reacts after committing a foul in the first half of a game with the Arkansas Razorbacks at Bud Walton Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gunnar Rathbun-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 23, 2016; Fayetteville, AR, USA; LSU Tigers forward Ben Simmons (25) reacts after committing a foul in the first half of a game with the Arkansas Razorbacks at Bud Walton Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gunnar Rathbun-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 5, 2016; Providence, RI, USA; Boston Celtics president of basketball operations Danny Ainge (left) speaks to fans during the first half of a game between the Providence Friars and the Marquette Golden Eagles at Dunkin Donuts Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark L. Baer-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 5, 2016; Providence, RI, USA; Boston Celtics president of basketball operations Danny Ainge (left) speaks to fans during the first half of a game between the Providence Friars and the Marquette Golden Eagles at Dunkin Donuts Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark L. Baer-USA TODAY Sports /

<p>This is the Celtics third selection of the first round, which makes it a great time to take a flyer on a high-upside big man like Jonathan Jeanne. A 7-2 power forward, Jeanne has the ability to knock down shots from the perimeter, and even take pull up jumpers off the dribble. He’s a competent ball-handler with good agility for a player of his size. Jeanne also has a freakish 7-7 wingspan that could make him one of the best rim protectors in the draft once he fills out his frame.</p> <p>Jeanne is only 18-years old and he’s not earning substantial minutes for his pro team yet because there are more experienced 7-footers on the roster. Even so, Jeanne’s physical profile and unique skill set make him a strong candidate for development even if he doesn’t come to the NBA right away.</p> <p>Boston will have plenty of flexibility at this point in the draft given that its front office possesses two higher selections to make roster improvements. It’s possible the Celtics will ultimately move this pick in order to collect a future asset in the 2017 draft. If not, though, selecting a high-upside international player makes sense in this spot.</p> <p><em>For more information about Jonathan Jeanne, <a href=. PF. Le Mans. Jonathan Jeanne. 22. player. 18

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