2024 NBA Mock Draft V.2
2024 NBA Mock Draft V.2
Let's Dance. The No Ceilings crew puts together V.2 of their Mock Draft for the 2024 NBA Draft cycle.
The calendar flipping over to 2024 is also a crucial turning point in the basketball season. Both college teams and NBA teams are nearing the halfway point for the most part, and fans of some NBA teams who aren’t all that draft-focused are already starting to look ahead to which players they might want to keep tabs on for the 2024 NBA Draft.
For any of those newcomers, and to all of you draft sickos who are with us year-round: welcome to V.2 of our Mock Draft. We put up V.3 of our collective BIG Board last week, but we had to gather the team for a War Room to hammer out our first Mock Draft of 2024 for today.
Two quick notes before we get started. This draft order is as of January 5th, 2024. Also, to remind No Ceilings veterans and rookies alike, a reminder of the process: we gathered as a group for this draft and nominated and debated players for every spot, putting both player evaluations and team needs into account.
Now that we’ve gotten that out of the way…
Enjoy, No Ceilings family!
#1. Detroit Pistons — Alexandre Sarr | Big | Perth Wildcats
Stats (as of 1/8/24):
9.8 PTS | 4.8 REB | 1.0 AST | 0.5 STL | 1.2 BLK
48.8 FG% | 28.3 3P% | 63.0 FT%
21 Games | 18.8 MIN
Albert: If the Detroit Pistons end up with the top pick in the draft, many will see this as a fitting end to a treacherous season. Enduring a 28-game losing streak would be tough on any roster, but winning the draft lottery and getting the chance to pick first in most years would feel like an awesome reward. Many will say this might be the worst year to have the first pick because of the perceived lack of high-end talent. If the Pistons were to walk away with a talent like Alexandre Sarr, though, that could be a major win for the franchise.
Sarr is injured and on the road to recovery after sustaining a hip injury while playing for the Perth Wildcats of the NBL. Before his injury, Sarr was able to highlight some of his eye-opening abilities. Sarr’s calling card from day one will be his defensive versatility. For a guy standing 7’1”, he moves well laterally, uses his length well to deter and deflect shots at the rim, and has shown flashes of being able to switch out to guards and wings. Not only does Sarr have great measurables and athleticism, but he also has great instincts. He can be a terror in passing lanes and knows how to put himself in the right spots as a team defender.
Sarr also offers versatility on the offensive end as well. Sarr will be a threat as a screener in screen and roll actions, has shown good instincts as a cutter, and is growing as a ball-handler and potential pick-and-pop option. Things get interesting with Sarr as he continues to work on his ball-handling. Combining his ball-handling and strong passing could make him a terror in DHO situations on the next level. Sarr has a long way to go with his outside shot, but if it continues to trend in the right direction, you have to wonder if there is a ceiling on his potential.
There is a log jam on the Pistons roster with all the big men they have, but it would be well worth it for the Pistons to clear the deck for Sarr to come in and grow into a future pillar of their franchise.
#2. San Antonio Spurs — Nikola Topic | G | Crvena Zvezda
Stats (as of 1/8/24):
16.4 PTS | 3.6 REB | 6.1 AST | 0.9 STL | 0.2 BLK
49.8 FG% | 28.2 3P% | 87.8 FT%
19 Games | 30.8 MIN
Ignacio: Despite their 5-30 record the Spurs have reasons to be hopeful. Victor Wembanyama is as good as advertised, and both Devin Vassell and Keldon Johnson have continued to be reliable perimeter scoring options for San Antonio. The final piece of the puzzle might be the lack of a primary playmaker, which the Spurs address here by selecting Nikola Topic.
Before making the move to Red Star in the middle of the season, the Serbian guard thrived in a high-usage role for Mega in the Adriatic League, where he showed the ability to consistently collapse a defense and exploit his gravity as a driver to set up teammates for open shots. Topic has not only mastered the art of passing on the move and finding open teammates consistently, but he also has shown the ability to run pick-and-rolls with timing, accuracy, and creativity. San Antonio’s current core could also provide the ideal context to maximize Topic’s potential and minimize the two biggest concerns around him, namely his three-point shooting and his defense.
#3. Washington Wizards — Reed Sheppard | G | Kentucky
Stats (as of 1/8/24):
12.6 PTS | 4.7 REB | 4.2 AST | 2.5 STL | 0.8 BLK
57.4 FG% | 54.7 3P% | 87.1 FT%
13 Games | 26.2 MIN
Corey: For many, this may feel early to see the 6’3” Kentucky guard’s name called. However, Sheppard has not only been the most productive and proficient college freshman in college basketball this season, but he has been one of the most effective freshmen in college basketball over the last 15 years. He may not look the part, but his 14.8 BPM places Sheppard fourth on a list of freshman BPA leaders dating back to 2008. The other members of the Top 5 include Zion Williamson, Anthony Davis, Super Cool Beas, and Kevin Love. The dude just contributes to winning basketball every time he steps on the floor. Sheppard has a valid argument for the best shooter in the class, he processes the game at light speed, and he impacts the game on both ends—as evidenced by his 5.2 STL% and 3.6 BLK%. Washington has precisely one player that they should include in their long-term plans; adding Reed Sheppard to Bilal Coulibaly gives them two.
#4. Charlotte Hornets — Zaccharie Risacher | F | JL Bourg
Stats (as of 1/8/24):
11.4 PTS | 3.7 REB | 1.0 AST | 0.9 STL | 0.4 BLK
52.8 FG% | 47.3 3P% | 70.9 FT%
29 Games | 22.8 MIN
Ignacio: This selection works for Charlotte on two different timelines. The short-term view is that the Hornets will need to add someone who can play the three and the four right away with both Gordon Hayward and Miles Bridges hitting free agency at the end of the 2023-24 season. Enter Risacher, who is shooting the ball at an elite clip in the French LNB (converting 47.3% of his three-point attempts), and projects as someone who can make an impact from day one with his versatile defense.
The long-term fit, however, might be even more enticing. With Risacher, the Hornets add a perimeter weapon who is the perfect complement to LaMelo Ball’s playmaking and Brandon Miller’s scoring with his ability to space the floor, move the ball, attack closeouts, and defend multiple positions.
#5. Portland Trail Blazers — Cody Williams | F | Colorado
Stats (as of 1/8/24):
14.0 PTS | 4.6 REB | 2.0 AST | 0.9 STL | 0.3 BLK
62.3 FG% | 60.0 3P% | 66.7 FT%
7 Games | 28.0 MIN
Nick: The Trail Blazers already have a talented and deep backcourt with Anfernee Simons, Shaedon Sharpe, and Scoot Henderson. With Deandre Ayton locked in at center and Toumani Camara starting to establish himself as a do-everything type of defender, Portland could really use a tertiary scorer and secondary playmaker on the wing. Cody Williams slots in perfectly to that role as someone who can create plays with the ball in his hands while also being lethal without it. His transition play is exceptional, ranking in the 99th percentile per Synergy, and he’s also been very effective on spot-ups and cuts. He could stand to be more aggressive with his shot, though his threes have been going in when he takes them, but his ability to play well off others makes it easy to envision him succeeding with the players that would be around him in Portland.
#6. Memphis Grizzlies — Ja’Kobe Walter | G | Baylor
Stats (as of 1/8/24):
15.3 PTS | 4.4 REB | 1.6 AST | 1.3 STL | 0.2 BLK
42.7 FG% | 40.0 3P% | 87.3 FT%
14 Games | 36.0 MIN
Corey: Just as things were looking up for Memphis and they looked as if they might not be long for the lottery, Ja Morant goes down with a season-ending injury, and they’re back in prime lotto position like they never left. When Ja is healthy, the team has weapons all over but what they have consistently searched for is help at the wing spot between Jaren Jackson and Desmond Bane. They’ve taken worthy swings, but ultimately no prospect has been able to cement themselves into the slot. At 6’5”, Ja’Kobe Walter may not have the true wing height they crave, but his strong frame and plus wingspan should make up for it. From a skill set perspective, Walter has been shooting the cover off the ball. While Walter can dance with the rock a bit, he is at his best flying off screens and running to spots to get his looks off. That is exactly what he can continue to do by slotting into a healthy Grizzlies lineup that will allow him to play to his strengths and cover for his weaknesses.
#7. San Antonio Spurs (via TOR) — Tidjane Salaun | F | Cholet
Stats (as of 1/8/24):
9.0 PTS | 3.0 REB | 0.8 AST | 1.2 STL | 0.2 BLK
42.3 FG% | 37.9 3P% | 76.4 FT%
27 Games | 21.4 MIN
Metcalf: Tidjane Salaun is one of the biggest home run swings in this draft. After taking an offensive maestro in Nikola Topic, Salaun immediately adds athleticism and versatility to the San Antonio frontcourt at a minimum. Salaun has an incredible motor on both ends of the court, which constantly leads to him winning 50/50 balls, creating extra possessions, and doing the dirty work most players don’t want to do. On top of that, Salaun’s shot continues to look legitimate by the game. Salaun is very confident and takes a tough variety of outside shots. The questions with Salaun come with his feel for the game. Salaun is still very raw. His on-ball creation has been inconsistent at best, and there are some defensive lapses that don’t align with his work rate. Salaun’s long-term defensive versatility, work rate, and shooting would be a great pairing alongside Victor Wembanyama in the frontcourt.
#8. Atlanta Hawks — Stephon Castle | G | UConn
Stats (as of 1/8/24):
9.4 PTS | 4.7 REB | 3.3 AST | 1.1 STL | 0.6 BLK
51.7 FG% | 20.0 3P% | 75.0 FT%
9 Games | 22.6 MIN
Rucker: Things could get tricky here for the Atlanta Hawks, who have been rumored to be trending towards shaking things up when it comes to the upcoming trade deadline. Atlanta has found a heck of a piece moving forward in young forward Jalen Johnson. Despite a crowded backcourt, the Hawks have a star in Trae Young, and they invested a first round pick last year in combo guard Kobe Bufkin. While Atlanta could go in a number of different directions here, there could be a desire to simply go with the best player available on the board. After returning from injury, UConn freshman Stephon Castle continues to take steps in the right direction. He’s got the size and versatility to be a dynamic weapon in the backcourt. While many expected Castle to be a versatile offensive threat this year, he’s started to impress in other areas. Castle’s defense has been outstanding, and his motor has been running on high. Regardless of what the Hawks look to do for the future, the idea of having two young guards in Kobe Bufkin and Stephon Castle is some sensational depth building and could start the shift of mentality for this roster.
#9. Chicago Bulls — Matas Buzelis | F | G League Ignite
Stats (as of 1/8/24):
11.8 PTS | 5.5 REB | 1.6 AST | 1.1 STL | 1.5 BLK
41.8 FG% | 22.4 3P% | 78.3 FT%
14 Games | 28.1 MIN
Corey: It isn’t hard to see the appeal in a 6’10” wing that can dribble, pass, and shoot. The Chicago Bulls, a team stuck in the middle, get an opportunity to swing on a versatile forward to their roster with the mini Buzelis slide. While a bit stiff in the hips as a mover, at his best, Buzelis looks like Orlando’s Franz Wagner, displaying the ability to work out of ball screens, knocking down dribble jumpers and making slick reads to teammates while defending multiple positions on the other side of the floor. Buzelis has had an up-and-down season for the G League Ignite as he looks to find some consistency adjusting to the speed and physicality of the pro game, but the flashes of creation and shot-making have been as intriguing as advertised. Matas Buzelis has the combination of size and skill to entice any team in the Top 10.
#10. Utah Jazz — Ron Holland | F | G League Ignite
Stats (as of 1/8/24):
17.5 PTS | 6.6 REB | 2.6 AST | 2.2 STL | 0.9 BLK
45.1 FG% | 21.7 3P% | 75.0 FT%
21 Games | 30.4 MIN
Rucker: There’s no prospect in this draft that has as much intrigue and hesitation as G League Ignite forward Ron Holland. He’s one of the top overall talents in this class, and when you ask around, there are still plenty of fans in NBA circles. Despite that, Holland’s stock has started to cool, which could make him an intriguing investment for some team in the lottery. Insert the Utah Jazz, who could be a sensational fit for both parties. Danny Ainge has shown a history of stressing patience with the development of his young players. After adding an assortment of talent in the 2023 class, Holland could come in and be an intriguing piece alongside some offensive talents like Keyonte George and Brice Sensabaugh. There’s potential for Holland to be a heck of a find for a team, especially if they have some offensive pieces in place. The upside could be too intriguing for Utah to pass up here.
#11. Houston Rockets (via BKN) — Rob Dillingham | G | Kentucky
Stats (as of 1/8/24):
13.7 PTS | 3.6 REB | 4.2 AST | 1.5 STL | 0.1 BLK
46.1 FG% | 41.2 3P% | 77.1 FT%
13 Games | 22.6 MIN
Maxwell: The Rockets will still ultimately need a long-term answer at the point guard position. Enter Kentucky’s Robert Dillingham. He’s a shot-making dynamo with outrageous speed. He does a fantastic job of generating space East-West, with loads of moves and dribble combinations at his disposal. He’s a deadly pull-up shooter with limitless range. Dillingham isn’t just a bucket-getter, though—he’s a savvy ball-screen operator and creative passer. Despite knocks about his smaller, thinner frame, he’s also done a solid job of pressuring the rim and finishing this season.
The added appeal of Dillingham is that he won’t be stepping on the toes of the rest of Houston’s young core. He’s an awesome shooter off the catch and a selfless creator, but he also has the juice to take over a game. This makes him a seamless offensive fit. Defense will always be an issue given his size, which could make a pairing of him and Alperen Sengun tricky to navigate. But as Sengun continues to grow, and given the number of large, athletic players surrounding them, things could click in a big way.
#12. New Orleans Pelicans (via LAL) — Donovan Clingan | C | UConn
Stats (as of 1/8/24):
13.9 PTS | 6.3 REB | 1.3 AST | 0.5 STL | 2.0 BLK
63.2 FG% | 0.0 3P% | 53.2 FT%
12 Games | 20.7 MIN
Nick: The New Orleans Pelicans could potentially lose Jonas Valanciunas this offseason when he enters free agency, but New Orleans could still use a short-term backup center and potential long-term starter even if he does re-sign. Donovan Clingan’s foot injury is certainly a concern that teams will consider carefully on Draft Night, especially given his limited minutes even before the injury. However, Clingan continues to be incredibly effective at controlling the paint on both ends of the floor when he does play. With the talented crew of perimeter defenders on the Pelicans and with Herb Jones blanketing everyone else, Clingan would be able to do what he does best–and in the process, provide an excellent and rising Pelicans defense the chance to cement their defense as truly elite.
#13. Portland Trail Blazers (via GSW) — Ryan Dunn | F | Virginia
Stats (as of 1/8/24):
10.1 PTS | 6.9 REB | 0.9 AST | 2.0 STL | 2.1 BLK
55.7 FG% | 21.7 3P% | 58.0 FT%
15 Games | 26.7 MIN
Metcalf: The core of the Trail Blazers is their backcourt with Scoot Henderson, Shaedon Sharpe, and potentially Anfernee Simons. They also have a young, experienced center to build around in Deandre Ayton, but the depth and versatility on the wing still remain in question. Cody Williams has a ton of upside and will hopefully be that third star for them. However, they still need some day one help. Ryan Dunn is not only one of, if not the, best defenders in this class, but also one of the rare rookies who could be a positive NBA defender right away. Dunn does have a lot of overlap with what Matisse Thybulle already does for them, but he would more closely align with their young core at a cheaper price if they don’t move Thybulle altogether. Almost the entirety of Dunn’s intrigue is on the defensive end, but that doesn’t mean there is nothing to like about the offense. Dunn has proven to be a good cutter and offensive rebounder, and he rarely turns the ball over. He’ll offer next to nothing in terms of playmaking, and the shot must improve, but in terms of finding an elite, versatile defender, there aren’t many better than Dunn.
#14. Oklahoma City Thunder (via HOU) — Kevin McCullar Jr. | G | Kansas
Stats (as of 1/8/24):
20.1 PTS | 6.8 REB | 4.5 AST | 1.6 STL | 0.6 BLK
48.4 FG% | 36.2 3P% | 83.9 FT%
14 Games | 34.5 MIN
Rucker: The Oklahoma City Thunder have been one of the most impressive teams in the league throughout the first half of the 2023-24 season. Big man Chet Holmgren looks like a rising star. Cason Wallace looks to be a sensational asset for this team moving forward. So what do you give a team that has a stacked roster of youth and a treasure chest of picks? How about another absolute dawg? OKC continues to stress the desire to add players who can play their role at a high level early on. They love to add players who can impact early on with shooting, playmaking, and overall versatility. Kansas Jayhawks senior Kevin McCullar has been one of the most impressive players in college basketball this year. McCullar is a dynamic defensive weapon who stands out with his ability to make winning plays on a regular basis. Adding him to the mix here would give the Thunder another tremendous asset who should fit with this team like a glove.
#15. Phoenix Suns — Zach Edey | C | Purdue
Stats (as of 1/8/24):
22.3 PTS | 10.6 REB | 1.7 AST | 0.3 STL | 2.3 BLK
63.4 FG% | 0.0 3P% | 75.2 FT%
15 Games | 29.0 MIN
Nick: Zach Edey’s exceptional production has become increasingly difficult to deny, and the Phoenix Suns run out a guard-heavy rotation without much size outside of Jusuf Nurkic and Kevin Durant. It might be a bit of a reach to some, but Edey slots in pretty neatly as a scoring bench big who can help out as a drop defender. Given how much he has done to shore up those weaknesses, his undeniability in the paint, and his continued dominance, he could certainly end up being more than a valuable rotation player. Even if his limited defensive mobility and versatility outside of drop coverage limit him from being a long-term NBA starter, though, Phoenix could certainly use the massive boost that he could provide to their scoring off the bench.
#16. Miami Heat — Kyle Filipowski | Big | Duke
Stats (as of 1/8/24):
16.8 PTS | 8.5 REB | 3.1 AST | 1.3 STL | 2.0 BLK
50.3 FG% | 31.0 3P% | 70.6 FT%
14 Games | 29.2 MIN
Albert: The Miami Heat hit the jackpot when they hit on their pick of Jaime Jaquez Jr. in the 2023 draft. Adding a multi-talented big like Kyle Filipowski could be another major win for them. Although they have Bam Adebayo as their starting center, adding someone like Filipowski to come in and be his primary backup would be a great choice. The thing about Filipowski that’s interesting is that you could even see him playing next to Adebayo in short spurts because of the defensive mobility both guys offer. Filipowski may not have the fleetest feet, but they’re plenty fast, and he offers a strong frame and length to help him. Filipowski is pretty average as a rim protector, but that doesn’t mean he’s bad.
On the offensive end, Filipowski has been very productive for Duke this season and will offer a good punch of scoring off the bench for this Heat squad. Filipowski has good feet as a low post scorer, is growing as a pick-and-pop guy, and can handle the ball pretty well for a guy his size. Where Filipowski struggles a little bit is finishing over length. Filipowski is a big man, but he’s not a great vertical athlete. Filipowski’s outside jumper looks beautiful, but his efficiency must improve for him to become a real threat from outside. I’m a believer in the shot long-term, but at this point, he still needs some work.
#17. Orlando Magic — Dalton Knecht | W | Tennessee
Stats (as of 1/8/24):
15.1 PTS | 4.1 REB | 1.6 AST | 0.6 STL | 0.6 BLK
45.3 FG% | 36.1 3P% | 80.4 FT%
14 Games | 27.1 MIN
Rucker: Orlando has been one of the most exciting young teams in the league this year. It looks as if the pieces are starting to find their groove and the picture is starting to get clearer about who can be the foundation surrounding Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner. Jalen Suggs has become one of the top storylines this year when it comes to a player taking a massive stride in his development.
Despite spending a lottery pick last year on rookie Jett Howard, Orlando is going to find themselves in a clear position to double down on finding some floor-spacing assets. They have the pieces to keep taking the next steps forward, but Orlando needs to have some options who can stretch the floor and open things up for the rest of the pieces. Dalton Knecht will make some believe that he’s a smooth-shooting wing, but there’s some serious versatility to his game. The 6’6” wing is a crafty scorer with some legit athleticism. He’d be a great get here.
#18. Cleveland Cavaliers — Tyler Smith | F | G League Ignite
Stats (as of 1/8/24):
13.2 PTS | 5.3 REB | 1.5 AST | 0.9 STL | 1.0 BLK
47.5 FG% | 38.7 3P% | 66.7 FT%
22 Games | 21.9 MIN
Metcalf: Regardless of what the Cavaliers do with the Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen pairing, Tyler Smith can play with either of them. Smith has been one of the most consistent and intriguing prospects from the G-League Ignite. His low-maintenance approach to offense would fit perfectly with this Cav’s roster, which already has plenty of mouths to feed. Smith is proving to be a reliable floor spacer either out of the pick-and-pop or spotting up. Smith has also shown a lot of promise as a weak side rim protector. Staggering the Mobley/Allen minutes would be a breeze with Smith’s versatility.
#19. New York Knicks — Yves Missi | C | Baylor
Stats (as of 1/8/24):
10.8 PTS | 6.7 REB | 0.2 AST | 1.1 STL | 1.9 BLK
67.5 FG% | N/A 3P% | 50.9 FT%
13 Games | 20.6 MIN
Maxwell: Given the injury woes that Mitchell Robinson has faced the past few years, additional depth at the center position could go a long way for the Knicks. Enter Yves Missi, a scheme-versatile defender with an NBA-ready frame. At 7’0” and 235 pounds, Missi can hang with anybody inside, and he had the lift to turn away opponents at the rim. Still, he’s light enough on his feet to guard on the perimeter with the speed to jump passing lanes. Offensively, he has a simple game, primarily acting as a screener and play finisher, but he excels in that role. He’s also an exceptional offensive rebounder, which will be exhausting for opposing big men to deal with. Adding an injection of youth at the big spot with a high-level clean-up man on offense and adaptability on defense is too much for the Knicks to pass up here, especially given how Missi can help Jalen Brunson on both ends.
#20. New Orleans Pelicans — Isaiah Collier | G | USC
Stats (as of 1/8/24):
15.6 PTS | 2.6 REB | 4.3 AST | 1.3 STL | 1.2 BLK
50.3 FG% | 31.9 3P% | 67.1 FT%
15 Games | 29.1 MIN
Corey: I know what you’re thinking—how could Isaiah Collier possibly slide into the twenties of the draft? It happens every year. Cam Whitmore is living proof of that fact right now. While Collier is clearly very talented with impressive physical tools, he has not figured out how to best utilize those tools. Collier knocked down jumpers early, but he is down to 32% from three and 67% from the free-throw line. For every fun playmaking flash, there has been an equally troubling turnover. For someone as athletic and explosive as Collier is, he has been allergic to the defensive glass and he has just one (yes, one) dunk on the year at the moment. For perspective, Reed Sheppard has three dunks, and Rob Dillingham has four. Perhaps most troubling is that there just hasn’t been much historical precedent for freshmen that have struggled as much as Collier has to become rotation-level players in the league, as there have been only three prospects (Zach Lavine, Peyton Watson, and Jaden McDaniels) that left after their freshmen seasons that had a BPM less than 3. Collier currently has a BPM of 2.4. There is still time for Collier to turn things around, but it’s getting late early.
#21. New York Knicks (via DAL) — Tyler Kolek | G | Marquette
Stats (as of 1/8/24):
14.6 PTS | 5.2 REB | 6.3 AST | 1.7 STL | 0.1 BLK
51.3 FG% | 41.2 3P% | 93.0 FT%
15 Games | 36.0 MIN
Albert: The Knicks just gave Miles McBride a new three-year extension to be the primary backup for Jalen Brunson. Since the trade of Immanuel Quickley and RJ Barrett to the Toronto Raptors, McBride has seen an increase in playing time. Adding a small guard like Tyler Kolek might seem like an interesting choice, but Kolek has a different skill set from McBride. Kolek has really improved as an outside shooter and has become a real threat. Kolek is a classic point guard who does a great job of playing at his pace and controlling the tempo for the offense. Kolek is a really strong pick-and-roll playmaker and is a threat to let it fly if guards make the fatal choice to go under. Kolek will add more toughness to an already tough squad and could easily fit a role for this Knicks team. McBride is a much stronger defender, but Kolek’s playmaking and outside shooting would be a welcome addition and would add to the overall depth of the roster.
#22. Indiana Pacers — Kwame Evans Jr. | F | Oregon
Stats (as of 1/8/24):
9.5 PTS | 5.9 REB | 1.8 AST | 1.9 STL | 1.5 BLK
47.1 FG% | 25.6 3P% | 81.8 FT%
15 Games | 24.6 MIN
Rucker: The Indiana Pacers continue to add impressive talent to the mix and look to be one of the “next” teams on the rise around the league. Armed with a couple of picks in the first round, Indiana could be a team that goes in a number of different directions. Oregon Ducks freshman Kwame Evans Jr came into the year as a potential “sleeper” to keep an eye on. After a slow start, Evans has started to find his groove and is making some movement up boards. The game looks to be slowing down for the versatile 6’9” forward. Evans is showcasing comfort with his role and is allowing the game to come to him. He’s got the potential to be a Swiss army knife with the upside to be a floor-spacing asset and offers defensive versatility. For now, Indiana jumps on the upside at 22, although Evans could continue to climb if he can keep this type of play up.
#23. Atlanta Hawks (via SAC) — PJ Hall | Big | Clemson
Stats (as of 1/8/24):
19.5 PTS | 6.4 REB | 2.0 AST | 1.1 STL | 2.1 BLK
54.5 FG% | 34.9 3P% | 77.6 FT%
14 Games | 27.5 MIN
Maxwell: Once again, the Atlanta Hawks have been one of the league’s most gun-shy teams from behind the arc. PJ Hall can change that from the 4 and 5 spots. The 6’11” senior is a knockdown shooter with logo range who can hit off movement. He also does a great job of using his strong body to set devastating screens, which should help get Trae Young some openings. Plus, Hall’s ability to space the floor can allow him to play alongside either of their current centers in jumbo lineups. Defensively, Hall isn’t the quickest or the most explosive leaper, but he’s become a fundamentally sound drop defender and improved rim protector. Hall gives the Hawks a plug-and-play option who helps their shooting deficiencies while complementing the rest of their roster.
#24. Oklahoma City Thunder (via LAC) — Dillon Jones | F | Weber St.
Stats (as of 1/8/24):
19.4 PTS | 10.2 REB | 4.9 AST | 1.8 STL | 0.1 BLK
50.6 FG% | 39.1 3P% | 82.8 FT%
14 Games | 35.4 MIN
Maxwell: Dillon Jones and Oklahoma City are a match made in heaven. They love guys who have long arms, and Jones has a 6’11” wingspan. They love smart players who can pass, and Jones does too, owning a preposterous 29 AST% from the forward position. Lastly, the Thunder could benefit from adding more of a rebounding punch, and Jones has averaged more than 10 boards per game each of the last three seasons. The Weber State wing does a little bit of everything. The two questions about him were always his fitness levels and shot. But Jones got into great shape this off-season, and he’s shooting a career-high 39.1% from deep despite taking mostly contested looks from behind the arc. Recent drafts have shown us not to overlook productive players, even if they’re not the most conventional. Jones fits that mold, but he also fits the Thunder’s style of play while bringing a rebounding punch they’ve lacked.
#25. Denver Nuggets — Oso Ighodaro | Big | Marquette
Stats (as of 1/8/24):
13.6 PTS | 6.8 REB | 2.2 AST | 1.0 STL | 0.9 BLK
61.3 FG% | 0.0 3P% | 64.2 FT%
15 Games | 31.3 MIN
Nick: What to get for the team that has (almost) everything? How about a backup big who’s a brilliant cutter and excellent transition player who pairs that with being an awesome playmaker for his position? Ighodaro might not make sense for all teams, but he’s more NBA-ready than most. Also, he would be going to a team where his lack of a shot is less of a fit issue, and his cutting and passing are more of a bonus. His above-average passing for a center and potential to succeed as a non-shooting 4 with Nikola Jokic in the game would give more offensive options to a team already rolling in them.
#26. Indiana Pacers (via OKC) — Bobi Klintman | F | Cairns Taipans
Stats (as of 1/8/24):
10.9 PTS | 4.8 REB | 1.0 AST | 1.1 STL | 0.6 BLK
44.3 FG% | 33.8 3P% | 82.4 FT%
22 Games | 21.9 MIN
Ignacio: The Pacers don’t seem to have many glaring holes to fill, as they have done a good job of building a deeply talented squad around their superstar point guard Tyrese Haliburton. With their second pick in the draft, Indiana adds a versatile offensive weapon in Bobi Klintman, who is playing his best basketball of the season, averaging 10 points per game and 39.4% from three-point range since December 1st. Klintman hasn’t produced much as a defender, but the idea of a forward with elite size who can shoot from the perimeter and put the ball on the floor to lead the break and attack closeouts is certainly enticing at this point in the draft.
#27. Philadelphia 76ers — Tristan da Silva | F | Colorado
Stats (as of 1/8/24):
15.8 PTS | 5.2 REB | 2.8 AST | 1.1 STL | 0.5 BLK
52.4 FG% | 36.8 3P% | 83.0 FT%
12 Games | 31.0 MIN
Metcalf: The 76ers are clearly in win-now mode, so taking a long-term developmental project doesn’t make a ton of sense. They also have two clearly defined stars in Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey, so continuing to add complementary pieces to them is a must. We’ve seen plenty of upperclassmen contribute immediately and outperform their draft stock in recent years; Tristan da Silva could very easily be that prospect in this year’s draft. The frustrating part about da Silva’s game is that there isn’t anything that leaps off the screen at you. He isn’t an explosive athlete or dynamic scorer, but he does all the little things at an exceedingly high level. Year over year, da Silva has posted quality numbers on high efficiency. He can stretch the floor, rebound, keep the ball moving, score in the post, and defend multiple positions. Trying to find a legitimate contributor at the end of the first round is hard, but da Silva could be a home run on the 76ers.
#28. Milwaukee Bucks — Tyrese Proctor | G | Duke
Stats (as of 1/8/24):
9.5 PTS | 2.3 REB | 4.3 AST | 0.8 STL | 0.2 BLK
45.7 FG% | 33.3 3P% | 77.3 FT%
11 Games | 26.4 MIN
Nick: This season has been a bit disappointing in some ways for Tyrese Proctor, who was a lottery player on many boards (including V.1 of our No Ceilings BIG Board) heading into his sophomore season after an exceptional close to his freshman season. Still, while he hasn’t had a breakout season this year, he has gotten much more efficient from two-point range, both around the basket and in his mid-range game. He’s also gotten more efficient with his passing, boosting his assist rate while also cutting down on turnovers. The Milwaukee Bucks could certainly use his playmaking gifts and size at point guard in their rotation, and they can afford to bring along the rest of his game slowly. Even if he turns out to be a longer-term project than some might have expected, Proctor’s skill set as it is now would give him a clear avenue for playing time on the Bucks–and a chance to be a steal at this slot if he gets more consistent with his shot and his overall game.
#29. Minnesota Timberwolves — AJ Johnson | G | Illawarra Hawks
Stats (as of 1/8/24):
3.0 PTS | 1.0 REB | 0.9 AST | 0.2 STL | 0.1 BLK
34.4 FG% | 30.8 3P% | 75.0 FT%
19 Games | 8.9 MIN
Albert: The Minnesota Timberwolves are legitimate championship contenders, and a lot of that is due to their strong overall roster. Having awesome vets like Naz Reid, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, and Kyle Anderson coming off the bench is a true luxury. For a roster laden with strong veterans and young stars, they could easily afford to take a bet on a higher-risk talent like A J Johnson. Johnson is an extremely fluid athlete who knows how to go and get a bucket. He has a good shooting stroke and real potential to become a dynamic scorer one day. He has real lead-guard abilities, as he’s also a strong passer, but he needs to continue to work on his shot selection and decision-making. Johnson also has good length and quickness on the defensive end of the ball, but he is on the thin side and needs to continue developing his frame. Johnson won’t be a contributor from day one, but a roster like Minnesota’s can wait for a talent like this to develop.
#30. Boston Celtics — Justin Edwards | F | Kentucky
Stats (as of 1/8/24):
9.5 PTS | 4.4 REB | 0.9 AST | 1.0 STL | 0.4 BLK
47.2 FG% | 25.7 3P% | 71.4 FT%
13 Games | 24.0 MIN
Rucker: Coming into the 2023-24 NCAA season, there was a chance that Kentucky Wildcats freshman Justin Edwards could make some noise as a potential Top 5 pick. Edwards shows flashes of being a versatile piece on both sides of the ball, but the consistency just hasn’t come around. Time will tell if Edwards can start to make a serious push towards revamping his draft stock, and he could be a name that returns for another year and supercharges his draft stock. For now, Edwards looks like a talent that could be an interesting developmental piece for an organization. Boston has one of the deepest rosters in the league, but it would be too juicy for a team like the Celtics to pass up a talent like Edwards. If Boston is convinced he could unlock his game, he could be a nice piece early on, especially with the potential for the Celtics to make things “simple” with plenty of surrounding talent.
SECOND ROUND
#31. Toronto Raptors (via DET) — Wooga Poplar | G | Miami
#32. San Antonio Spurs — Juan Nunez | G | Ratiopharm Ulm
#33. Detroit Pistons (via WAS) — Alex Toohey | F | Sydney Kings
#34. Portland Trail Blazers (via CHA) — Izan Almansa | Big | G League Ignite
#35. Milwaukee Bucks (via POR) — Harrison Ingram | F | North Carolina
#36. Minnesota Timberwolves (via MEM) — Jared McCain | G | Duke
#37. Los Angeles Clippers (via TOR) — DaRon Holmes II | Big | Dayton
#38. Portland Trail Blazers (via ATL) — Pacome Dadiet | F | Ratiopharm Ulm
#39. Boston Celtics (via CHI) — Jamir Watkins | F | Florida State
#40. Houston Rockets (via BKN) — Adem Bona | C | UCLA
#41. New York Knicks (via UTA) — Otega Oweh | G | Oklahoma
#42. San Antonio Spurs (via LAL) — Ariel Hukporti | C | Melbourne United
#43. Houston Rockets (via GSW) — Trey Alexander | G | Creighton
#44. Oklahoma City Thunder (via HOU) — Aaron Bradshaw | C | Kentucky
#45. Washington Wizards (via PHX) — Kel’el Ware | C | Indiana
#46. Philadelphia 76ers (via NYK) — Carlton Carrington | G | Pittsburgh
#47. Los Angeles Clippers (via CLE) — Bronny James | G | USC
#48. Orlando Magic — Alex Karaban | W | UConn
#49. Miami Heat — Devin Carter | G | Providence
#50. Boston Celtics (via DAL) — Ajay Mitchell | G | UCSB
#51. New Orleans Pelicans — Jaxson Robinson | W | BYU
#52. Indiana Pacers — DJ Wagner | G | Kentucky
#53. Sacramento Kings — Dillon Mitchell | F | Texas
#54. Los Angeles Lakers (via LAC) — Trevon Brazile | F | Arkansas
#55. Forfeited — Phoenix Suns (via DEN)
#56. Forfeited — Philadelphia 76ers
#57. Houston Rockets (via OKC) — Kobe Johnson | W | USC
#58. Indiana Pacers (via MIL) — Ruben Prey | F | Joventut Badalona
#59. Denver Nuggets (via MIN) — Keshad Johnson | F | Arizona
Why do you think you’re so much higher on castle?
This is a WILD draft year. Really levels the playing field on scouting ability / player projections at the NBA level. Would be fun to track big boards and accuracy rates