Boston Celtics Mock Draft: Projections for the Celtics' First 4 Picks in 2012

While all eyes are currently set on the 2012 NBA postseason, it's important to note that this offseason could potentially bring about a complete overhaul in Boston.

With both Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen poised to hit free agency, the Celtics could potentially be in need of replacements throughout their lineup. In order to do so, they'll look to free agency and the ever-important NBA Draft.

With two picks in the first round, as well as another two in the second round, don't be surprised to see some long-term acquisitions.

In other words, not everyone is going to start right away; with veterans soon to depart, however, their value is undeniable.

This is going to be an exciting year of youth for the Boston Celtics. Here's what they're going to do to make the most of their opportunity.

1st Round, Pick 20: Royce White, Iowa State Cyclones

Player Traits: Small Forward - Sophomore - 6'8" - 240 pounds

If you think Danny Ainge is unaware of what Paul Pierce has done for this franchise, you're wrong.

Due to his knowledge of such contributions, it's hard to imagine him passing on a player who could potentially be Paul Pierce version 2.0.

Much like Pierce, White is a big, physical forward who can defend multiple positions. He's also an excellent ball handler who thrives as a facilitator, something Pierce has proven time and time again that he is capable of. He's also a dominant scorer both inside and out.

Did I mention, he crashes the boards on both ends of the floor, too? You know, the "complete package."

However, there are two separating factors between the two, as Pierce is a much better shooter and White is a much greater athlete.

Regardless, this is an unheralded opportunity for the Celtics to breed their No. 3 of the future in nearly the exact same mold as their current franchise player.

Season Averages: 22.05 PER - 13.4 PPG - 9.3 RPG - 5.0 APG - 1.2 SPG - 0.9 BPG

1st Round, Pick 24 (via Clippers): Dion Waiters, Syracuse Orange

Player Traits: Shooting Guard - Sophomore - 6'4" - 215 pounds

The need for a No. 2 is quite overstated in Boston, as Ray Allen's return is not out of the question, and Avery Bradley's play over the past two weeks has been phenomenal.

Nevertheless, having a sixth man at in the position has proven to be as valuable as a talented starter.

Syracuse's sixth man, Dion Waiters, is an elite athlete who gets to the basket with Flash-like quickness and can finish above the rim with his unreal leaping ability.

He has also come a long way with his jump shot, improving from 32.9 percent in 2011 to 36.3 percent in 2012 from beyond the arc. Between his skill and confidence, Waiters has all the makings of a potential star.

As for his fit in Boston, Waiters athletic ability would give Rajon Rondo something he does not have outside of Avery Bradley—a partner in transition.

He's also an underrated defender who uses his length and quickness to shut down his opponents. If Doc Rivers can find a balance of playing time between Avery Bradley and him, the Celtics' back court would be as dangerous as ever.

Season Averages: 26.29 PER - 24.1 MPG - 12.6 PPG - 2.5 APG - 2.3 RPG - 1.8 SPG - 48% FG

2nd Round, Pick 42 (via Bucks): Jeff Withey, Kansas Jayhawks

Player Traits: Center - Junior - 7'0" - 235 pounds

If you can tell me something that makes Jeff Withey a worse fit than Fab Melo, I'll agree that the Celtics should take a center in the first round. Until then, I'm fine with this.

Jeff Withey set an NCAA Tournament record with 31 blocked shots this March, establishing himself as one—if not the best—defensive center in this draft class.

Considering the Celtics' woes at the center positions, this is exactly the type of low-risk player they need as a defensive stopper.

While the Celtics are poised to make a run at Roy Hibbert, JaVale McGee and Spencer Hawes come free agency, Withey's selection is a safe-but-necessary pick. He has taken on the burden of defending some of the NCAA's elite this postseason, including Ohio State's Jared Sullinger and Kentucky's Anthony Davis. The two combined to shoot 6-of-29 from the field.

Not too hard to see why this pick works.

Season Averages: 25.86 PER - 24.8 MPG - 9.0 PPG - 6.3 RPG - 3.6 BPG

2nd Round, Pick 50: Robbie Hummel, Purdue Boilermakers

Player Traits: Small Forward - Senior - 6'8" - 212 pounds

Seriously, why not?

The Boston Celtics drafted two Purdue teammates in 2011, selecting JaJuan Johnson and E'Twaun Moore. In selecting Robbie Hummel, the Celtics will have paired three mature former teammates up for what can only be described as a bright future.

While this could create a bit of a conflict at the No. 3 position, with two rookies and Paul Pierce, it would also create a solid situation for the future.

Hummel is a much better shooter than Royce White, offering the Celtics some perimeter help they'll certainly need once Paul Pierce leaves Boston.

For those with concerns about Hummel's injury-prone history, the senior showed all the signs of a full-recovery by playing in all 35 games this past season.

Furthermore, Hummel posted career highs in points, rebounds, blocks and three-point percentage. While injuries can always re-occur, a pick at this position is very low-risk.

Season Averages: 32.2 MPG - 16.4 PPG - 7.2 RPG - 1.9 APG - 1.2 BPG - 38.3% 3PT