Kris Joseph to Celtics: Scouting Report, Video Highlights and Analysis

At 6'10'' and 210 pounds, Kris Joseph has the size to make an immediate impact in the NBA at the small forward position. In his final three seasons at Syracuse, Joseph accumulated totals of 12.8 points, 5.1 rebounds and 1.4 steals per game, and that's the kind of production he can bring to the NBA.

The biggest question surrounding Joseph is if he'll be able to adapt to the NBA's constant man defense after playing in Syracuse's vaunted 2-3 zone for the past four years. Joseph certainly needs to add some polish to his offensive skill set, but once he does that he'll be a productive small forward coming off the bench in the NBA.

What Joseph Brings to the Team

Joseph is the kind of player who can come in and immediately add athleticism at the wing. He's capable of running transition and controlling the ball with his well-developed ball-handling skills.

There's no doubt that Joseph's greatest asset is his extremely explosive athleticism. When harnessed with his impressive size, Joseph's athleticism is something that will help him excel early on in the NBA.

If Joseph wants to work his way up the depth chart though, he'll certainly have to work on adding range and polish to his jumper, as it's arguably the weakest part of his game right now. No matter where Joseph stands right now, he'll bring a solid work ethic to the locker room and practice court which will positively impact those around him.

What Experts Are Saying About Joseph

The consensus on Joseph and his impact in the NBA is that he's a developmental talent whose potential rides on him being able to add some strength to his frame and polish to his jump shot.

While Joseph is one of the older prospects in this year's draft class, there's no doubt that he makes up for lack of youth with his work ethic and athleticism.

ESPN's Chris Ford reports that Joseph's basketball I.Q. isn't off the charts, and if he wants to excel in the NBA that's something he'll have to dramatically improve on, especially on the defensive side of the ball.

Joseph has a lot to work on coming into the NBA, but that doesn't mean that he's not ready to have an impact both on and off the court.

Joseph's Rookie Impact

Joseph's biggest impact as a rookie will come with his ability to excel in the transition offense. One of his greatest assets is his explosive athleticism and that will be best showcased when he's running in transition.

The fact that Joseph is a little unpolished offensively will be masked by his ability to get to the rim with serious authority. With a little work on his isolation defense, Joseph will be able to earn minutes coming off the bench and increase the level of athleticism and efficiency on the court.

Don't be shocked if Joseph ends up being one of the biggest steals of the 2012 NBA draft.

Pick Analysis

Although the Celtics aren't picking Kris Joseph to replace Kevin Garnett—who, let's face it, is irreplaceable—they will be getting someone whose size and athleticism adds a fresh and exciting element to their offense.

His defense will likely be lacking at the NBA level, but that doesn't mean he won't crack Boston's rotation at some point.