“We weren’t supposed to know this,” an insider whispered as word leaked from the Celtics’ practice facility.
In a hush-hush workout that’s only now surfacing, the Boston Celtics quietly brought in Tennessee’s Chaz Lanier — a lethal All-SEC sniper who lit up defenses with his 40%+ shooting from deep — just weeks ahead of the NBA Draft. The twist? No other playoff contender seems to have moved this boldly.
With the No. 28 and No. 32 picks, Boston may be preparing to shock fans by adding a weapon few outside SEC country fully understand. “He’s the sleeper of the draft,” one scout reportedly said. And with Celtics president Brad Stevens juggling payroll drama and trade rumors, this under-the-radar move could be the draft-night steal of the year.
Lanier, who transferred from North Florida to Tennessee for one standout season, averaged 18 points and dominated in matchups against elite competition. His 30-point explosion at Texas A&M, where he buried eight 3-pointers, left jaws on the floor. His rise was so rapid that he earned SEC Newcomer of the Year — and now, maybe, a spot on the league’s most storied franchise.
Fans are already buzzing. Some say this could be Stevens’ savviest move since becoming GM. Others wonder: will a quiet pre-draft workout lead to a loud postseason payoff?
