Celtics want to work out Lonzo Ball, Josh Jackson
In light of their reported new draft position, the Boston Celtics are eyeing two prospects in particular.
The Celtics are believed to be sending the No. 1 pick in next week's draft to the Philadelphia 76ers in exchange for the No. 3 selection and a future first-rounder. Washington alumnus Markelle Fultz is considered the top prospect, and all signs point to the Sixers taking him first overall.
With the deal expected to be finalized Monday, Boston's narrowed down the list to a pair players it could take third overall next Thursday: former UCLA star Lonzo Ball, and Kansas product Josh Jackson.
However, Celtics GM Danny Ainge indicated that neither of the college standouts has agreed to work out for his club.
"As of right now, we have not seen (Jackson)," Ainge told the Boston Globe's Adam Himmelsbach on Saturday. "We're trying to get to see him and Lonzo Ball, are two guys we haven't seen that we'd like to see, and so far they've chosen not to come in."
Related: Ainge says Lonzo Ball 'politely' declined workout with Celtics
While neither has made the trek to Beantown, both Ball and Jackson have worked out for the Los Angeles Lakers, who own the No. 2 pick, two times each.
Ball, and his outspoken father LaVar, have been adamant he only needs to work out for the Lakers, though the point guard may have had a change of heart since. The 19-year-old put up 14.6 points, 7.6 assists, six rebounds, and 1.8 steals as a freshman with the Bruins.
It's believed Jackson would be the ideal choice for the Celtics, whose backcourt is already set with All-Star Isaiah Thomas and defensive stalwart Avery Bradley.
The 6-foot-8 swingman averaged 16.3 points, 7.4 rebounds, three assists, 1.7 steals, and 1.1 blocks in his lone season with the Jayhawks. It was reported Boston would consider drafting him even if he doesn't come in for a workout.
Related: Josh Jackson deletes tweet calling out Fultz for lack of talent
Fultz met with the C's earlier this month and was slated to return for another visit, but it was canceled amid the trade reports.