The Boston Celtics are at a crossroads as they prepare to make a pivotal draft decision at No. 27. This choice will send clear signals about the future of several current players and their free agency strategy. The Celtics were able to secure the second-best record in the Eastern Conference even without Jayson Tatum for the bulk of the season. With Tatum back, they were optimistic heading into the playoffs but collapsed in the first round, losing to the Philadelphia 76ers in seven games. This is a huge summer for the Celtics as they look to reset and get back to championship contention. Trading for Giannis Antetokounmpo could be on the table, although they haven't broadcast any willingness to part with Jaylen Brown. Other smaller trades are possible and they'll certainly be shopping for bargains in free agency. Their other lever for improvement is the 2026 NBA Draft, where they hold the No. 27 and No. 40 picks. They'll have plenty of solid options at both spots and what they do could ultimately mean these players aren't back for another run. Dalano Banton, a 26-year-old point guard, only appeared in four games for Boston last season and didn't do much to stand out. He has great size and a strong defensive reputation, and Boston does have a club option for him next year. However, this is an end-of-the-bench roster spot and they're probably better off filling it with someone with more potential upside. Christian Anderson from Texas Tech could be a fit if the Celtics were looking for a deep-bench point guard option to try and develop. Ron Harper Jr. had his moments this season, appearing in 26 games and averaging just over 11 minutes per game. His per-36 minute averages worked out to 13.9 points, 5.4 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 1.1 steals - which is pretty solid. However, Harper is now 26-years-old and there's not much reason to think he has a big leap coming. At this point, he's a solid deep bench option but, like with Banton, the Celtics might be better served finding a younger player with more upside to fill those minutes. If they opt to take a big at No. 27, it might make sense to pick up his club option and keep him around next season. But if they go for a wing or scoring option, it could be a sign that he's gone. Anderson, mentioned above, could also be a pick that pushes Harper off the roster. But LaFrance also identified several other scoring guards who could be available in that range and be appealing for Boston - Isaiah Evans of Duke and Meleek Thomas.