2016 Mock Draft: Simmons, Ingram, Bender still on top

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WALTHAM, MA - JULY 5: New Boston Celtics head coach Brad Stevens (R) is introduced to the media as Team President Rich Gotham, Co-Owner Steve Pagliuca, and President of Basketball Operations Danny Ainge look on July 5, 2013 in Waltham, Massachusetts. Stevens was hired away from Butler University where he led the Bulldogs to two back to back national championship game appearances in 2010, and 2011. (Photo by Darren McCollester/Getty Images)
WALTHAM, MA – JULY 5: New Boston Celtics head coach Brad Stevens (R) is introduced to the media as Team President Rich Gotham, Co-Owner Steve Pagliuca, and President of Basketball Operations Danny Ainge look on July 5, 2013 in Waltham, Massachusetts. Stevens was hired away from Butler University where he led the Bulldogs to two back to back national championship game appearances in 2010, and 2011. (Photo by Darren McCollester/Getty Images) /

player. 18. In this mock draft the Celtics have already selected Dragan Bender and Denzel Valentine, and now have the opportunity to bolster their front court even further by taking Ivica Zubac. Zubac is a 7-1, 19-year old who looks to have all the making of a solid big man in the NBA, a la Jonas Valanciunas. <p>Zubac had a rough to of it in 2015-16 playing for three different teams due to both financial instability and lack of playing time — such is life in international hoops from time to time. Zubac already has shown solid footwork, decent perimeter mobility for his size, the ability to be an above average rim protector, and an array of post-moves in his back pocket as well. He’s got a ton of skill yet to be realized and could be the perfect fit for a potential draft-and-stash for Boston this season.</p> <p>While he’s very skilled, it’s not likely he would be able to contribute right away for coach Stevens, however Danny Ainge is a huge fan of stockpiling young talent and Zubac could be a selection for the future to be sure. Another option is that the Celtics package this pick for future assets or to move up in the draft for their second selection. They have a bevy of options and Ainge will likely look at every available one.</p> <p><em>To read more about Ivica Zubac, <a href=. C. Croatia. Ivica Zubac . 23

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