Guard prospects in the 2027 draft range have already sparked interest. A notable name appearing in mock drafts is USC guard Alijah Arenas, who is positioned within Boston’s potential range at No. 27. Arenas comes from an athletic lineage, as the son of former NBA All-Star Gilbert Arenas, whose professional career spanned from 2001 to 2013. Scouts have highlighted Arenas’ advanced ball-handling, shot creation, and shot-making as evident during his freshman year. While his 21.3 percent three-point shooting and 40.5 percent two-point finishing marked room for growth, evaluators believe better decision-making and a more developed second-year feel could translate into sharper drives and jumpers. Given his size, movement, and athletic profile, there is growing speculation among scouts that he could develop into a legitimate NBA scorer if he improves consistency from beyond the arc.
Arenas’ collegiate debut was delayed due to a torn meniscus requiring surgery, causing him to miss the start of the season. He ultimately appeared in 14 games during the 2025-26 season, averaging 14.1 points, 2.9 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and nearly one steal per game. His efficiency numbers reflected the disrupted preparation and late start, with a field-goal percentage around 34.1% and three-point shooting near 21.3%. Despite the slow start, Arenas showed flashes of scoring ability and potential on the wing, including multiple 20-point games and a notable 29-point performance against Indiana in March. He also demonstrated defensive upside, recording a career-high three steals in a game against Ohio State and accumulating seven steals across a four-game stretch. He stands out for a 7-foot wingspan, which could contribute to defensive versatility and impact in the NBA.
As the 2027 cycle develops, Arenas’ stock could rise or fall depending on how he progresses during USC’s upcoming season. If he improves efficiency and continues to showcase his playmaking and scoring instincts, Arenas could become one of the more intriguing prospects for teams seeking a dynamic guard with two-way potential, including the Celtics, who may look to infuse more playmaking and shot creation into their backcourt.
In summary, the 2027 draft landscape features several guards with high upside who could fit a franchise’s developmental priorities. Arenas represents one of the strongest late-first-round or early-second-round possibilities, particularly for teams seeking a versatile guard with scoring ability and growth potential. As the college season unfolds, additional prospects will emerge, and the Celtics—or any contending team—will monitor how these players develop, aiming to bolster their long-term roster depth and youth pipeline.
