Last week in Chicago, the NBA Draft Combine showcased an array of talented prospects ahead of the highly anticipated 2024 NBA Draft. The event provided a mixture of measurements, drills, interviews, and scrimmages that reshaped the draft board. Post-lottery and post-combine analysis has stirred excitement and intrigue among fans and experts, highlighting some notable risers and those whose stock may have taken a hit.
A Close Look at the Movers and Shakers in the NBA Draft Rankings
Devin Carter: The Providence Phenom
Devin Carter‘s performance at the combine was nothing short of electric. The Providence guard, who recently clinched the Big East Player of the Year, showcased a blend of explosive athleticism and competitive spirit that left many impressed.
With a max standing vertical leap of 42 inches and a record-breaking sprint, Carter solidified his position as a top-15 prospect. His defensive prowess coupled with an improving offensive game makes him a coveted asset for teams like the Oklahoma City Thunder, Sacramento Kings, and New Orleans Pelicans.
Bronny James: Rising Despite Challenges
Bronny James, the USC guard and son of NBA legend LeBron James, faced mixed results early on but managed to turn heads on the second day of scrimmages. Standing slightly shorter than expected at 6-foot-1.5, Bronny James demonstrated significant athleticism with a 40.5-inch vertical leap and an impressive showing in the 3-point star shooting drill.
His assertive play and enhanced skills during the combine have solidified his draft prospects, positioning him among the top 60 players.
KJ Simpson: The Colorado Comet
KJ Simpson, another guard who shone at the combine, proved his worth with dazzling performances that highlighted his speed and agility. Reminiscent of Tyrese Maxey, Simpson’s ability to outpace defenders and score effectively boosted his draft stock considerably.
His 40.5-inch vertical leap and strong scrimmage showings have cemented his place in the top 50 prospects, promising a significant role in the NBA as a dynamic off-the-bench player.
Players Facing Draft Headwinds
Rob Dillingham’s Defensive Dilemmas
Rob Dillingham, once a top-five prospect, has seen his stock dip following the combine. The Kentucky guard’s smaller-than-expected stature and light frame have raised concerns about his defensive capabilities at the NBA level. Despite his offensive talents, the challenge of projecting his defensive improvement has made his top-10 status uncertain.
Hunter Sallis and Payton Sandfort: Struggles and Setbacks
Hunter Sallis from Wake Forest and Payton Sandfort of Iowa both experienced setbacks during the combine. Sallis underperformed in key metrics and opted out of scrimmages, which did little to bolster his draft hopes.
Meanwhile, Sandfort struggled significantly in scrimmage play, with his shooting prowess not translating as expected. These challenges have led to a reevaluation of their immediate futures, with a return to college basketball a potential consideration for both.
Final Thoughts as the Draft Approaches
As the NBA Draft nears, the combine in Chicago has undoubtedly reshaped the landscape of prospects. With players like Devin Carter and Bronny James making significant strides and others facing newfound hurdles, the anticipation for draft day continues to build.
As teams and scouts digest these performances, the final weeks leading up to the draft promise to be filled with speculation and strategic decisions. The impact of the combine cannot be understated, as it offers a glimpse into the future of the NBA, teeming with talent ready to make their mark.
