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Report: Celtics interested in NC State guard Dennis Smith Jr.

Rob Kinnan / USA TODAY Sports

Danny Ainge is doing the best he can to dominate headlines prior to Thursday night's draft. After moving down from the No. 1 spot to No. 3, recent rumors hinted at the Boston Celtics moving down once again.

The speculation could make sense considering the general manager's reported interested in N.C. State point guard Dennis Smith Jr.

According to the Boston Herald's Steve Bulpett, Ainge would "love" to make Smith the club's top pick.

Moving down to select Smith, who is projected to go between picks six and 10, would allow Ainge to both draft the player he wants and acquire another asset.

Markelle Fultz and De'Aaron Fox are two guards ranked ahead of Smith, while Frank Ntilikina is another highly rated guard likely to go in the top 10.

Smith recently worked out for the Celtics and spoke highly of head coach Brad Stevens.

"He's younger, so he's easier to relate to. He's a great guy, and he seems like he cares about his players," Smith said.

Smith averaged 18.1 points, 6.2 assists, and 4.6 rebounds in 32 games with the Wolfpack.

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