Could the Celtics Target 6’6″ Wing With Kawhi Comparisons?

The Boston Celtics are entering a critical pivot point. They won it all in 2024—but after a brutal Achilles injury to Jayson Tatum, mounting second apron pressure, and now the Jrue Holiday trade, Brad Stevens has to reshape a contender on the fly—with the 2025 NBA Draft offering one potential path forward.

One intriguing possibility? Cedric Coward, a fast-rising 3-and-D prospect with elite length, nonstop motor—and real comparisons to Kawhi Leonard.

College basketball analyst Jeff Goodman believes Coward could be exactly the kind of player worth trading up for. On The Off C’season via NBC Sports Boston, Goodman said he would explore packaging picks 28 and 32 to move into the early 20s if Coward is still on the board.

“I think you keep it, you see if you’re Brad in the early 20s, can you package both of those — 28 and 32 — and move up if there’s a guy that’s sliding that you really like. To me, a guy like that is Cedric Coward,” Goodman said.

He praised Coward’s maturity, shooting, and defensive versatility, calling him one of the most intriguing wings in the class.

“He’s a 6-foot-6 3-and-D guy who, to me, he’s athletic, he can shoot it, he can guard, he’s mature. He’s a guy that I think I would roll the dice on.”

 

From D3 to Draft Boards

Coward’s path is as unorthodox as it is impressive. He started his college career in Division III, transferred to Eastern Washington, then leveled up again at Washington State. In just 21 games there, he averaged 17.7 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 3.7 assists, while shooting 40% from three.

He isn’t just a one-year wonder either. Across three seasons, he hit 39% of his threes—peaking at 40.6% on catch-and-shoot looks. Combine that with a 6’6″ frame, 7’3″ wingspan, and 38.5″ vertical, and you’ve got a defensive disruptor with major upside on both ends.

Trade-Up Fuel: Celtics Picks and Hauser in Play?

Coward is rising fast—The Ringer slots him at No. 13, Yahoo at No. 15—well ahead of Boston’s 28th and 32nd picks.

If the Celtics want in, they’ll need to move. One option? Packaging those picks with Sam Hauser, the sharpshooting forward coming off a 42.4% season from three on a budget-friendly deal.

With Baylor Scheierman waiting in the wings and Anfernee Simons newly acquired from Portland, Boston suddenly has more flexibility in reshaping their backcourt and wing depth.

Kawhi Leonard Comparisons: Real or Reaching?

The comparisons to Kawhi Leonard aren’t just lazy scouting. Coward shares Kawhi’s physical tools—a 7’3″ wingspan, powerful base, and defensive feel—as well as his quiet demeanor and off-ball IQ.

He’s also drawn comparisons to Jalen Williams for his mid-major rise, fluid athleticism, and ability to adapt to multiple roles on the fly.

That said, Coward’s game still needs polish. His handle isn’t fully there, and his lateral quickness is solid but not elite. But in the right system—one with elite development, a winning culture, and minutes available? His ceiling gets scary fast.

Could This Be the Celtics’ Next Wing Bet?

With Tatum sidelined, Jrue Holiday gone, and luxury tax constraints looming, the Celtics don’t just need stars—they need cost-controlled contributors who can defend and shoot from Day 1.

Cedric Coward fits that mold.

If Boston believes in his trajectory—and the Kawhi-lite skill set is real—don’t be surprised if Stevens makes a move. Packaging Hauser and picks for a shot at Coward may be bold, but this is a team that’s never been shy about going all in.

This isn’t about chasing upside for its own sake. It’s about finding the next two-way wing who helps you win right now—and keeps you winning later.