Overview
- The Boston Celtics used the 40th overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft to select Dillon Mitchell, a 6'7–6'8 wing who finished his college career at St. John's.
- Mitchell is being brought in for his perimeter defense, length and athleticism, qualities that earned him Big East All-Defensive recognition and drew years of scouting attention from Celtics personnel.
- Offense is a clear development project for Mitchell because he made only one of 15 three-point attempts last season and shot roughly 48–49% from the free-throw line across his college career.
- Team leaders say they tracked Mitchell for multiple years and considered trading up to guarantee the pick, and Boston will now decide whether he signs a two-way deal or a standard rookie contract while working on shot mechanics in the club’s development system.
- The pick fits a Celtics draft approach that prioritized length and defensive upside over immediate scoring and could lead to Mitchell earning situational minutes as a defensive stopper if his shooting improves.