As the 2024 NBA Draft approaches, the excitement builds, despite this year’s class being seen as less promising compared to previous years. While there’s no standout like Victor Wembanyama, the draft pool still has intriguing talents ready to make their mark. Here’s a breakdown of our mock draft selections:
No. 1: Atlanta Hawks – Alex Sarr, F/C, Perth Wildcats (Australia)
The Atlanta Hawks leapfrogged from a 3% chance to win the lottery to secure the No. 1 pick. They are set to select Alex Sarr, a 7-foot-1 French prospect who previously spent time in Atlanta with Overtime Elite. Alex Sarr’s rim protection and defensive versatility make him an ideal fit alongside Jalen Johnson and Onyeka Okongwu, potentially making Dejounte Murray expendable. Alex Sarr’s addition could significantly bolster the Hawks’ frontcourt, providing essential coverage for Trae Young’s defensive shortcomings.
No. 2: Washington Wizards – Zaccharie Risacher, G/F, JL Bourg-en-Bresse (France)
The Wizards are embarking on a long-overdue rebuild, and Zaccharie Risacher stands out as a solid choice. At 6-foot-8, Risacher offers a well-rounded game, making him a versatile fit for the Wizards’ evolving roster. His shooting potential could elevate him into a crucial role-player, complementing future creators the Wizards aim to acquire.
No. 3: Houston Rockets – Reed Sheppard, G, Kentucky
Benefiting from a lottery pick owed by the Nets through the James Harden trade, the Rockets are eyeing Reed Sheppard. Known for his sharpshooting skills, Sheppard can play off the ball or as a backup point guard. However, the Rockets have been actively shopping this pick, which might lead to a trade.
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No. 4: San Antonio Spurs – Nikola Topic, G, KK Crvena Zvezda (Serbia)
The Spurs, aiming to support Victor Wembanyama, could select Nikola Topic, a promising young guard. At 6-foot-6, Topic brings excellent passing and shot creation abilities. While his three-point shooting needs improvement, his potential as a playmaker makes him a valuable addition to the Spurs’ young core.
No. 5: Detroit Pistons – Matas Buzelis, F, G League Ignite
Standing between 6-foot-8 and 6-foot-11, Matas Buzelis is a versatile forward with promising athleticism and multi-positional capabilities. Despite a somewhat inconsistent season with G League Ignite, Buzelis’ shooting form suggests potential for significant improvement, making him a high-upside pick for the Pistons.
No. 6: Charlotte Hornets – Stephon Castle, G, UConn
To complement LaMelo Ball, the Hornets could select Stephon Castle. Known for his versatility and defensive prowess, Castle can play both on and off the ball, providing reliability in the Hornets’ backcourt. Continued improvement in his shooting could make him a vital player for Charlotte.
No. 7: Portland Trail Blazers – Donovan Clingan, C, UConn
With Scoot Henderson, Anfernee Simons, and Shaedon Sharpe already in their backcourt, the Blazers could benefit from adding Donovan Clingan, a 7-foot-2 center known for his rebounding and rim protection. Clingan’s experience leading UConn to consecutive NCAA championships adds to his appeal.
No. 8: San Antonio Spurs – Robert Dillingham, G, Kentucky
The Spurs might double down on guards by selecting Robert Dillingham. Though small at 6-foot-1, Dillingham’s shooting prowess makes him an exciting prospect. If he can enhance his playmaking skills, he could become a key asset alongside Wembanyama.
No. 9: Memphis Grizzlies – Ron Holland, F, G League Ignite
Amidst their recent turmoil, the Grizzlies could find value in Ron Holland. Despite a challenging G League season, Holland’s athleticism and defensive capabilities make him a promising addition to Memphis’ roster, potentially fitting well alongside Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr.
No. 10: Utah Jazz – Dalton Knecht, G/F, Tennessee
At 23, Dalton Knecht’s experience and shooting efficiency (39.7% from three) make him a viable option for the Jazz. His ability to score from various spots on the court and his maturity could provide immediate benefits to Utah’s lineup.
No. 11: Chicago Bulls – Tidjane Salaun, PF, Cholet (France)
Tidjane Salaun’s recent performance in the French LNB playoffs has boosted his draft stock. At 6-foot-9, Salaun’s offensive capabilities and potential to develop further make him a valuable pick for the Bulls, especially if they decide to trade Zach LaVine and focus on rebuilding.
No. 12: Oklahoma City Thunder – Ja’Kobe Walter, G/F, Baylor
Ja’Kobe Walter’s defensive skills and movement shooting abilities make him an attractive prospect for the Thunder. At 6-foot-5, Walter’s versatility on both ends of the court could fit well with Oklahoma City’s developing team, providing depth and potential long-term value.
No. 13: Sacramento Kings – Cody Williams, F, Colorado
Cody Williams, a 6-foot-9 wing, offers athleticism and scoring ability. Despite not having a standout season at Colorado, his potential as a solid defender and impressive finisher makes him a valuable addition to the Kings, who continue to build on their recent success.
No. 14: Portland Trail Blazers – Jared McCain, PG, Duke
If the Blazers don’t secure Clingan earlier, Jared McCain could be their choice at No. 14. McCain’s scoring ability and playmaking potential make him a useful asset, even if he initially serves as a backup behind Henderson and Simons.
No. 15: Miami Heat – Zach Edey, C, Purdue
The Heat could use Zach Edey’s size and scoring ability in the post. At 7-foot-3 with a 7-foot-10 wingspan, Edey’s physical presence and scoring efficiency could complement Bam Adebayo, offering a different dynamic in Miami’s frontcourt.
No. 16: Philadelphia 76ers – Devin Carter, G, Providence
Devin Carter’s defensive skills and athleticism make him a strong fit for the 76ers. With a 7-foot-1 wingspan, Carter can immediately contribute to Philadelphia’s rotation, providing depth and defensive intensity around Joel Embiid.
No. 17: Los Angeles Lakers – Tristan da Silva, F, Colorado
Should the Lakers retain this pick, Tristan da Silva could be their choice. At 6-foot-9, da Silva’s two-way abilities and shooting accuracy (39.5% from three) make him an appealing prospect who can contribute immediately, especially if LeBron James continues his career.
No. 18: Orlando Magic – Johnny Furphy, SG/SF, Kansas
With a promising future ahead, the Magic might take a chance on Johnny Furphy. At 6-foot-9, Furphy’s offensive skills and potential for growth make him a high-upside pick, giving Orlando another young talent to develop.
No. 19: Toronto Raptors – Kyshawn George, SG/SF, Miami
Kyshawn George’s defensive potential and three-point shooting (40.8% from deep) align with the Raptors’ needs. His physical profile and shooting ability could help Toronto improve their perimeter game and complement Scottie Barnes.
No. 20: Cleveland Cavaliers – Carlton Carrington, G, Pittsburgh
With questions surrounding Donovan Mitchell’s future, the Cavaliers could opt for Carlton Carrington, a high-upside 18-year-old guard. Carrington’s potential and athleticism make him a valuable prospect for Cleveland’s evolving roster.
No. 21: New Orleans Pelicans – Isaiah Collier, PG, USC
Once considered a top-10 pick, Isaiah Collier’s size and strength make him an intriguing choice for the Pelicans. If he can refine his shooting and reduce turnovers, Collier could provide significant value at the point guard position.
No. 22: Phoenix Suns – Kyle Filipowski, PF/C, Duke
The Suns, in win-now mode, could benefit from Kyle Filipowski’s size and skillset. At 7-foot, Filipowski’s rebounding and defensive abilities could address some of Phoenix’s immediate needs, adding depth to their frontcourt.
No. 23: Milwaukee Bucks – Yves Missi, C, Baylor
Yves Missi’s raw talent and defensive potential make him a solid pick for the Bucks. At 7-foot with a 7-foot-10 wingspan, Missi could provide much-needed rim protection and verticality when Brook Lopez rests.
No. 24: New York Knicks – Tyler Smith, F, G League Ignite
The New York Knicks could use Tyler Smith’s length and potential as a stretch big. At 6-foot-11 with a 7-foot-1 wingspan, Smith’s development could eventually offer New York valuable frontcourt depth.
No. 25: New York Knicks – Kel’el Ware, C, Indiana
With back-to-back picks, the New York Knicks might also select Kel’el Ware. His mobility and budding shooting skills could provide New York with another promising big man to develop, enhancing their roster flexibility.
No. 26: Washington Wizards – Bobi Klintman, F, Cairns (Australia)
The Wizards, continuing their rebuild, could take a chance on Bobi Klintman. His versatility and potential on both ends of the court make him an intriguing prospect with significant upside.
No. 27: Minnesota Timberwolves – Baylor Scheierman, SG/SF, Creighton
Baylor Scheierman’s performance at the combine has boosted his draft stock. At 6-foot-7, Scheierman’s shooting (38.1% from three) and immediate readiness could provide the Timberwolves with a valuable rotation player.
No. 28: Denver Nuggets – Tyler Kolek, PG, Marquette
Tyler Kolek’s seasoned pick-and-roll game makes him a smart choice for the Nuggets. At 23, Kolek’s experience and playmaking abilities could fill potential gaps in Denver’s backcourt rotation.
No. 29: Utah Jazz – Justin Edwards, SG/SF, Kentucky
Despite a disappointing season, Justin Edwards’ potential and physical attributes make him a worthwhile gamble for the Jazz. His ability to improve on the perimeter could provide Utah with another promising wing.
No. 30: Boston Celtics – Daron Holmes II, F, Dayton
Daron Holmes II’s improved shooting and defensive skills make him a solid pick for the Celtics. His ability to space the floor and protect the rim could enhance Boston’s frontcourt, providing valuable support for their playoff ambitions.
The 2024 NBA Draft may not feature a generational talent, but it still promises to deliver future stars and key contributors. Keep an eye on these prospects as they embark on their NBA journeys.
