As part of WEEI.com’s coverage of the 2012 NBA draft, we are profiling all players considered likely candidates to be drafted June 28. The Celtics own three picks: 21, 22 (from the Thunder in the Kendrick Perkins trade) and 51.

Perry Jones III has size and athleticism, but he is young and needs lots of work to reach his potential. (AP)

PERRY JONES III

Position: Small forward/power forward

School: Baylor

Age: 20

Height: 6-foot-11

Weight: 234 pounds

Achievements: 2012 All Big-12 third team, 2011 All-Big 12 second team, 2011 Big-12 All-Rookie team

Key 2011-12 stats: 14.0 points, 7.7 rebounds, 50.0 FG%, 30.7 minutes

What he brings: Jones, who leaves Baylor after his sophomore season, is one of the most athletic players in the draft, as his size and quickness give him the potential to be an impact player at the NBA level. He is a smooth ball-handler, a good shooter from mid-range, and a good rebounder thanks to his 7-foot-2 wingspan.

While he moves quickly like a big guard, he could be tougher in the paint if he wants to handle the contact at the NBA level. For a player his size, he needs to work on his post play and his aggressiveness if he wants to reach his full potential.

He was not very consistent at the college level and his effort was questioned at times. If the Celtics do draft Jones, they will draft him based upon his potential and not necessarily his production in college.

Where the Celtics could get him: Jones has been mocked all around the first round, including at pick No. 21 to the Celtics. Jones has a good chance of being in line for the Celtics to take him with either one of their first two picks.

Notes: The NCAA declared Jones ineligible toward the end of the season after an investigation about whether he received improper benefits from an AAU coach before going to college. He would have had to serve a five-game suspension and pay back $700 if he wanted to return to Baylor next year.

Recent articles:

Sports Illustrated: Baylor’s Jones finally tapping into potential

Fox Sports Ohio: Jones a gifted mystery man

Video: Here is a highlight package of Jones’ sophomore season