Boston Celtics 2012 Mock Draft: Early Edition

Despite turning around a disappointing season and coming to within two games of the division-leading 76ers" title="Philadelphia 76ers, there is plenty of uncertainty surrounding the Boston Celtics.

Between the trade rumors and the expiring contracts of both Ray Allen and Kevin Garnett, the future is unknown. What is known, however, is that the Boston Celtics possess three draft picks in the upcoming NBA draft.

They also possess a handful of needs.

One has got to give, and in the 2012 NBA Draft, the Celtics could begin to build a new, young dynasty with three players that could one day make their mark on Beantown.

Sound familiar?

First Round (No. 16): Patric Young, Center, Florida Gators

While there are plenty of holes to fill in the Celtics' aging roster, none quite measure up to their weakness at the center position. In adding Patric Young, they'd turn a weakness into a strength.

The Florida Gator is a bit undersized at 6'9", yet he never finds that to be a hindrance. Between his jaw-dropping leaping ability and giant-size wingspan, Young always finds a way to overcome a taller opponent.

Young is a dominant defender on the low post, utilizing his high basketball IQ to put himself in perfect position on every possession.

His offensive game is a bit raw, but his value as a defender should be cherished. He's not clueless on offense, but when compared to his dominance as a shot blocker, it's almost irrelevant.

With that being said, his ability to score the basketball would surely lessen the weight on the Celtics' backcourt.

When comparing Young to an NBA player, he'd have to be a young version of Ben Wallace. Leaping ability, defensive prowess and dominant rebounding are a staple in this kid's game.

Season averages: 10.3 PPG, 6.5 RPG, 61% FG

First Round (No. 24 Via Clippers): Draymond Green, Forward, Michigan State

Draymond Green is a born leader.

Despite receiving low expectations entering the 2012 season, Green has taken the Michigan State Spartans and helped them contend for the Big Ten Championship. If they win, that glory rests firmly on their star forward's shoulders.

For all of the questions posed about Green's weight, he has responded with surprising range and versatility as an offensive and defensive player. His 40-percent shooting from distance is a prime example of such.

Green is also an excellent passer, evidenced by his 11 games with at least five assists. When paired with his dominance as a rebounder, it's clear why Green could be a key component to the Celtics' long-term future.

Season averages: 16.3 PPG, 10.3 RPG, 3.6 APG, 1.5 SPG, 1.0 BPG

Second Round (No. 46): Will Barton, Shooting Guard, Memphis Tigers

One of the potential steals of the draft.

Will Barton is a well-rounded prospect who can dominate on the offensive end of the floor, combining elite athleticism with deep range on his jump shot. When paired with his ability to penetrate and finish above the rim, it's almost a given that he'll score 15-20 points every time out.

What is most impressive about the 6'5" shooting guard's game, though, is the addition of an ability to dominate the glass.

Despite playing the 2, Barton has managed to haul in 8.1 rebounds per contest in 2012—up from 4.9 as a freshman. He capped it off with 13 boards in Memphis' Conference USA championship win over Marshall.

He may not have the name value, but that shouldn't matter at this pick. He has the game value.

Season averages: 18.1 PPG, 8.1 RPG, 3.0 APG, 1.4 SPG