The Boston Celtics' future is a hot topic, and one name is already sparking excitement among fans: Hannes Steinbach. But here's where it gets controversial—could this 6’11” Washington center be the Celtics’ next big move, or is the real dream still AJ Dybantsa? Let’s dive in.
The Celtics’ season started with more questions than answers. After a summer of roster changes and uncertainty, the team’s identity was anyone’s guess. Fast forward to now, and they’re sitting at 6–7, 11th in the East, caught between growing pains and quiet optimism. It’s far too early to think about the draft, but that hasn’t stopped Boston fans from peeking ahead. Jonathan Wasserman’s latest Bleacher Report mock draft has the Celtics landing Hannes Steinbach, a prospect who fits the front office’s love for long-term, high-upside players.
Why Steinbach? The Celtics have always favored a specific type of big man—not the traditional back-to-the-basket giant, but someone who can think, move, and contribute beyond just athleticism. Steinbach checks all those boxes. His footwork is sharp, his reads are deliberate, and he plays with a calmness rare for a 19-year-old. His soft touch around the rim, reliable hands, and ability to find space without demanding the ball make him a standout. And his defense? It might be his most exciting trait. He’s shown versatility in switching and drop coverage, a must for the Celtics’ system.
But here’s the part most people miss: Steinbach isn’t being drafted to save the team. Boston doesn’t need a savior—they need a piece they can develop, someone who fits their culture. Steinbach feels like that kind of player.
Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room: AJ Dybantsa. Even with Steinbach in the mix, Dybantsa is the name on every Celtics fan’s lips. The Boston-born phenom, projected as a top-three pick, has become a full-blown obsession. At 6’9” with a grown-man frame at just 18, he’s dominating at BYU. His driving game is advanced, his physicality is real, and his upside is undeniable. But it’s more than talent—it’s the Boston connection. Dybantsa has openly expressed his desire to play with Jayson Tatum, calling it an ‘amazing duo.’ His recent social media posts about returning to Boston have sent fans into a frenzy, tapping into the city’s dream of seeing a homegrown star rise through the ranks.
But here’s the catch: As long as the Celtics stay competitive, they’re unlikely to land a top-three pick. Drafting Dybantsa would require a lottery miracle. Still, the dream persists. He’s powerful, confident, and charismatic—everything Boston loves. Even if the Celtics never get close to drafting him, the idea of Dybantsa in green isn’t going away.
Looking ahead, the season is just getting started, and the roster is still settling. November standings don’t tell the full story. Steinbach represents the realistic, forward-thinking pick Boston has historically excelled at, while Dybantsa is the fantastical dream fans will cling to until next June. For the Celtics, this mock draft feels like a snapshot of two paths: one grounded, one aspirational. Both are worth watching.
What do you think? Is Steinbach the smart move, or is Dybantsa worth the dream? Let us know in the comments—this debate is far from over.
