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Boston Celtics: Semi Ojeleye finding his stride in rookie season

By Tarringo Basile-vaughan

GREENBURGH, NY - AUGUST 11: Semi Ojeleye of the Boston Celtics poses for a portrait during the 2017 NBA Rookie Photo Shoot at MSG Training Center on August 11, 2017 in Greenburgh, New York. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
GREENBURGH, NY - AUGUST 11: Semi Ojeleye of the Boston Celtics poses for a portrait during the 2017 NBA Rookie Photo Shoot at MSG Training Center on August 11, 2017 in Greenburgh, New York. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) /
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Boston Celtics rookie Semi Ojeleye is starting to show just why he was projected as a first-round pick prior to the 2017 NBA draft.

While all the talk has focused around first-round draft pick Jayson Tatum, another Boston Celtics rookie has found his way over the last few games.

Labeled as a younger version of Jae Crowder, Semi Ojeleye has begun to show why he is considered by some experts as a steal in the 2017 NBA draft.  The 37th overall pick started off slowly, but during the team’s current six-game winning streak has shown his value with his versatile defense.

With the ability to defend against multiple positions, the 6-foot-7 forward out of SMU has already held his own against players like Giannis Antekokounmpo and Rudy Gay.  His strong play has increased his playing time, which means Boston Celtics head coach Brad Stevens loves what he sees.

"“I think Semi has a chance to be one of the better defenders around,” Stevens said following the team’s 108-94 win over San Antonio Monday night."

BOSTON, MA – OCTOBER 24: Michael Beasley
BOSTON, MA – OCTOBER 24: Michael Beasley /

With a combination of athleticism, strength and quickness to move laterally, Ojeleye processes the tools to be a valuable defensive asset this season for the Celtics.  With Gordon Hayward going down in the first minutes of the 2017 NBA season, the rookie has gotten his chance early and is certainly taking advantage.

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He is also doing the things off the court necessary to be successful.

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"“I just try to watch film” Ojeleye said, via NBC Sports Boston. “Try to prepare.  These are great guys.  I’m not going to stop every play.  You do what you can.”"

That is a great attitude and playing with players like Marcus Smart, who strives on defensive pressure, Semi Ojeleye has teammates he can watch and learn from.

With defense, comes the offense 

As impressive as Ojeleye has been on the defensive end, he is starting to find his touch on the offense.

Labeled as a versatile scorer coming out of college, the rookie has struggled a bit to find his scoring touch.  That is until Wednesday night in the team’s 113-86 win over the Sacramento Kings.

In that game, Semi Ojeleye found his long-range touch.  He nailed three treys in an 11-point performance. With a previous high of just 7 points the game prior versus the Spurs, it appears he is finding his comfort level.

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That can only mean good things for a young Boston Celtics team that has started to gel on both ends of the court.

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