What happened: The Boston Celtics selected Chris Cenac Jr. with the 27th overall pick in the first round of the 2026 NBA Draft. The selection adds a developmental big man to Boston's pipeline as the franchise restocks at the back end of the first round.

Why it matters: A late first-round pick gives Boston a cost-controlled prospect to bring along behind its veteran core heading into the 2026-27 season. Cenac arrives as a frontcourt project, the same Chris Cenac Jr. who drew pre-draft interest around the league during the workout circuit.

What to watch: Watch how Boston brings Cenac along in Summer League and whether he factors into the rotation or develops as a longer-term frontcourt piece.