2024 NBA Mock Draft V.6
The No Ceilings Crew puts together V.6 of their 2024 NBA Mock Draft.
The 2024 NBA Draft Lottery has come and gone. The shocking results certainly shook up the draft world, while also marking a major milestone on the road to the draft itself.
The Atlanta Hawks won the day, jumping up from #10 to #1, while the San Antonio Spurs also secured themselves picks #4 and #8 on the heels of winning the Victor Wembanyama sweepstakes last year. Sadly, the Detroit Pistons saw themselves falling back from the best overall odds to the #5 pick for the third year in a row.
The order for the 2024 NBA Draft is finally set, and we here at No Ceilings had to break down the situation now that the last Tankathon sim for the draft cycle has been run and the real thing is here. Without further ado, here is our full mock draft with the finalized order, including write-ups for the entire first round.
Enjoy, No Ceilings family.
#1. ATLANTA HAWKS - Alexandre Sarr, F/C, Perth Wildcats
Profile: 7’1”, 217
Year: 2005 Born (18)
9.6 PTS, 4.5 REB, 1.0 AST, 0.4 STL, 1.5 BLK
50.0 FG%, 27.6 3P%, 70.7 FT%
The Atlanta Hawks were the biggest winners of the lottery after jumping from #10 to #1. While this class may not have a consensus top pick as we’ve seen in previous years, Alexandre Sarr has been consistently at or near the top of most boards all season. Sarr’s combination of physical tools, defensive versatility, and offensive upside make him one of the most intriguing prospects in this class.
With these lottery results, the Hawks can go in a myriad of directions. If they do decide to move Trae Young and/or Dejounte Murray, they can bring in a ton of assets to build around Sarr going forward. If they decide to run it back, though, Sarr is a fantastic complement to either guard. He provides a ton of versatility out of the pick-and-roll with his shooting upside, midrange scoring, and athleticism. He has also shown stretches of dynamic shot creation and playmaking upside. Defensively, though, Sarr’s upside is astronomical.
He doesn’t have the bulk of traditional centers, which has led some to think he could play as a power forward, but his competitiveness, physical tools, and versatility make him one of the best defenders in this class. Regardless of what the Hawks decide to do with their roster construction, Sarr provides long-term upside, immediate production, and roster versatility.
#2. WASHINGTON WIZARDS - Nikola Topic, G, Crvena Zvezda
Profile: 6’7”, 203
Year: 2005 Born (18)
15.6 PTS, 3.5 REB, 5.9 AST, 1.0 STL, 0.1 BLK
49.8 FG%, 31.3 3P%, 87.8 FT%
The Washington Wizards showed us that they were taking a long-term view with their rebuild when they selected Bilal Coulibaly in the 2023 NBA Draft. The Wizards are flush with toolsy wings, but they don’t have a long-term option at point guard or center. Nikola Topic could very easily be their answer at point guard.
Finding a true offensive engine is really difficult, and there may not be a better one in this draft than Topic. He is a brilliant playmaker with fantastic positional size. His passing vision, accuracy, and creativity are constantly on display as he routinely manipulates and dissects defenses. Topic will have no issues setting up Washington’s off-ball scorers. While Topic is fascinating, he is far from perfect as there are some questions with his scoring and defense.
Topic is a below-the-rim finisher, but he gets there at will and finishes at nearly 70% at the rim. He doesn’t have much of an in-between game, but there is promise with his outside shot. As long as he can knock down threes at a league-average rate, he should be fine. With his size, scoring upside, IQ, and playmaking brilliance, there aren’t many more exciting swings as Topic.
#3. HOUSTON ROCKETS (via BRK) - Rob Dillingham, G, Kentucky
Profile: 6’3”, 176
Year: Freshman (19)
15.2 PTS, 2.9 REB, 3.9 AST, 1.0 STL, 0.1 BLK
47.5 FG%, 44.4 3P%, 79.6 FT%
The Houston Rockets had a terrific season that was buoyed by their athleticism and defense. Unfortunately, their offense frequently got bogged down due to their lack of shooting. While Rob Dillingham lacks positional size and defense, he more than makes up for it with his offensive brilliance. Dillingham not only exceeded expectations this year at Kentucky, but he made the preseason concerns look outright foolish. Dillingham is a dynamic scorer who can fill up the scoring column in the blink of an eye. Additionally, he showed improved decision-making, creative playmaking, and confident shot creation.
With the Rockets, Dillingham would provide a change of pace look off the bench with a ton of upside to grow into more than a role player. He would provide a versatile scoring presence and playmaking creativity that would complement the cutters and off-ball scorers like Cam Whitmore, Dillon Brooks, Amen Thompson, and Jabari Smith. Dillingham’s defense will drive his coach insane, but his ability to jump passing lanes and the already-established starters should be enough to insulate his lapses.
#4. SAN ANTONIO SPURS - Zaccharie Risacher, F, JL Bourg
Profile: 6’8”, 204
Year: 2005 Born (19)
10.6 PTS, 3.6 REB, 0.9 AST, 0.9 STL, 0.4 BLK
46.1 FG%, 38.8 3P%, 71.6 FT%
The biggest gripes with Zaccharie Risacher’s game have been his shooting versatility and lack of offensive creation. With the San Antonio Spurs, though, those would quickly be masked over. From day one, Risacher could be put in a simplified role that perfectly elevates his strengths and allows him to contribute to winning basketball. Risacher has terrific physical tools that make him a menace on defense. Risacher can not only guard nearly anyone on the perimeter, but he is also an incredibly reliable team defender.
Pairing his length, athleticism, and defensive prowess with Victor Wembanyama and Devin Vassell is very exciting. Offensively, Risacher’s game is very limited. He’s a terror in transition and proved all season to be a highly reliable spot up shooter. He has shown flashes of fun on-ball creation, but he’ll likely rarely be put in a position to do that anyway. Instead, he can maximize his off-ball movement and scoring by being a reliable cutter and spot-up shooter playing off Wembanyama’s gravity.
#5. DETROIT PISTONS - Reed Sheppard, G, Kentucky
Profile: 6’3”, 187
Year: Freshman (19)
12.5 PTS, 4.1 REB, 4.5 AST, 2.5 STL, 0.7 BLK
53.6 FG%, 52.1 3P%, 83.1 FT%
The Detroit Pistons were the biggest losers of lottery night as they fell from #1 to #5. Having the first pick is always better than not having the first pick, but this could be a blessing in disguise for the Pistons. Reed Sheppard proved all season that he is an elite shooter, something the Pistons desperately need. All season, Sheppard played on and off the ball and constantly punished defenses for giving him the slightest window. However, Sheppard isn’t “just” a shooter, as he also thrives with his playmaking and decision-making.
Sheppard is an elite outlet passer, which will nicely complement the transition games of Jaden Ivey and Ausar Thompson, and he does a great job of reading the weak side of the floor out of the pick-and-roll. Defensively, Sheppard has some holes, but his hands, defensive playmaking, and instincts are phenomenal. The Pistons still have yet to see who is a legitimate long-term piece outside of Cade Cunningham, but Sheppard’s shooting, IQ, and malleability could help answer some of those questions.
#6. CHARLOTTE HORNETS - Stephon Castle, G, UConn
Profile: 6’6”, 215
Year: Freshman (19)
10.7 PTS, 4.7 REB, 2.9 AST, 0.8 STL, 0.6 BLK
47.0 FG%, 26.2 3P%, 76.0 FT%
The questions with Stephon Castle’s jumper are legitimate, but they may not matter—especially with the Hornets. Over the last two seasons, Castle has proven he can be a defensive stopper, an offensive engine, or an off-ball role player. His main concern hasn’t been individual accolades but winning. Castle has long term upside to play more as an offensive initiator like he did in high school, but his lone season at UConn proved that he can contribute in other ways as well. Castle showed all season that he was one of the best perimeter defenders in the country. Additionally, Castle created for others, was a dynamic cutter, and was a highly effective rebounder.
With the Hornets, Castle can provide physical, consistent, and versatile perimeter defense that can help establish a team identity. Playing with Mark Williams and Brandon Miller, the Hornets could start building a really strong defensive core. On offense, Castle can easily play off Miller and LaMelo Ball. His offensive rebounding, transition creation, and off-ball movement will thrive off of their gravity. He’ll consistently make their lives easier by being in the right spot and making the right decision on nearly every possession. Castle’s upside is that of an All-Star wing, but even if the shot never comes around, he has more than enough skills that will contribute to winning basketball.
#7. PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS - Donovan Clingan, C, UConn
Profile: 7’2”, 280
Year: Sophomore (20)
12.9 PTS, 7.5 REB, 1.5 AST, 0.5 STL, 2.5 BLK
64.3 FG%, 28.6 3P%, 57.4 FT%
Several teams walked away a little frustrated–Portland included. The Blazers had the fourth-best odds in landing the number one pick, but came away with the seventh pick. BUT…not all is lost, Blazer fans! Somehow they were able to land the fourth-best player on the No Ceilings BIG Board. Portland oddly has a number of players at each position that are talented, but Clingan serves the purpose of getting the best player available, while being able to play in a big man rotation. As a freshman, Clingan played behind Adama Sanogo. This year, he played ahead of Samson Johnson. So splitting time with Deandre Ayton and Robert Williams should be no problem.
Clingan has made a name for himself for his incredible finishing around the rim, monstrous defensive presence, relentless rebounding, and the ability to set jaw-jarring screens. What Clingan does that sometimes go unnoticed is make very good reads. This makes him an ideal big to have the offense flow through him. There are some who are big believers that the big man can eventually stretch the floor. Even if he doesn’t, Portland would be able to land one of the most prolific rim protectors to come out of college in quite some time. Drafting centers in the NBA is extremely similar to drafting a left tackle in the NFL; it may not be the most sexy path, but going big is a step in the right direction for a team desperately in need of one.
#8. SAN ANTONIO SPURS (via TOR) - Dalton Knecht, W, Tennessee
Profile: 6’6”, 213
Year: Senior (22)
21.7 PTS, 4.9 REB, 1.8 AST, 0.7 STL, 0.6 BLK
45.8 FG%, 39.7 3P%, 77.2 FT%
The Spurs still need point guard help, but there aren’t any point guards that make a ton of sense in this range. Devin Carter could be a nice fit, but it’d be a bit of a reach. Instead, doubling down with another electric off-ball scorer makes a lot of sense. Dalton Knecht was one of the most versatile and reliable scorers in the country as he routinely dropped 30 in the SEC. At Tennessee, Knecht had to do nearly everything on offense, which led to some inefficiencies and limitations.
With the Spurs in more of an off-ball role, though, Knecht could quickly emerge as an immediate contributor. As defenses collapse and focus on Wembanyama, Knecht is the ideal outlet. He is a fantastic off-ball shooter who can also create his own look. The Spurs offense frequently struggled to find scoring, but Knecht could be a very quick fix to their shooting struggles.
#9. MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES - Cody Williams, F, Colorado
Profile: 6’8”, 190
Year: Freshman (19)
11.9 PTS, 3.0 REB, 1.6 AST, 0.6 STL, 0.7 BLK
55.2 FG%, 41.5 3P%, 71.4 FT%
This is a good spot for Cody Williams to go. Coming off a tumultuous freshman season, there are tons of question marks revolving around Williams. Before you let his freshman season mess with you too much, it’s vital to note that Williams fought back from multiple injuries to make it back in time for the NCAA tournament. With that in mind, Williams has prototypical NBA wing size. He’s worked to improve his frame and strength. The passing flashes he showed off when he was healthy were a real treat. Also, his touch around the rim is damn good. His shooting splits of 55.2/41.5/71.4 can be a little misleading, considering the amount of time he missed and the low volume from three, but it’s not crazy to think that Williams could develop into a strong shooter because of his great touch.
Memphis may have some PTSD with how the Ziaire Williams experience has gone, but there’s real reason to believe that Williams won’t be another Ziaire. The passing is real with Cody, and if he’s healthy and continues to add strength like his older brother, the ceiling with him could be ridiculous. The handle will also need some tightening, but I don’t believe the Grizzlies will be looking for him to contribute a ton in year one. With time and patience, Cody could really redeem the whole Ziaire experiment.
#10. UTAH JAZZ - Ron Holland, F, G League Ignite
Profile: 6’7”, 204
Year: 2005 Born (18)
19.5 PTS, 6.7 REB, 2.9 AST, 2.3 STL, 0.9 BLK
46.0 FG%, 24.0 3P%, 72.8 FT%
Members of Utah’s front office have been known to go star hunting and focus on swinging on prospects with the highest upside. Few prospects in this draft, let alone this range, have as much upside as Ron Holland. Holland had far from an ideal season with the G League Ignite as he was an inconsistent shooter, a questionable decision-maker, and an inconsistent defender. However, he also had some jaw-dropping performances with sublime shot-making and suffocating defense.
Holland has long been lauded for his exhaustive play style, athleticism, and defensive tenacity. If he can continue improving his shot, improve his decision-making, and clean up his defensive fundamentals, his upside is that of a multiple-time All-Star. This range of the draft is always tricky, but if you can find a player with Holland’s potential and pedigree, it’s an easy swing to take. With Utah, Holland will be put in a terrific developmental system where he will be put in a position to succeed.
#11. CHICAGO BULLS - Matas Buzelis, F, G League Ignite
Profile: 6’10”, 195
Year: 2004 Born (19)
14.1 PTS, 6.6 REB, 1.9 AST, 0.9 STL, 1.9 BLK
45.5 FG%, 26.1 3P%, 69.6 FT%
One of the great mysteries of the 2024 NBA offseason will be what the Chicago Bulls do with their roster. The Bulls were a strange team to watch all season long. They were never as bad as some people made them out to be, nor were they ever as good as others made them out to be. With star players missing big chunks of the season due to injury, the Bulls relied heavily on Demar DeRozan and Coby White to carry the team for most of the year. Now, how does Matas Buzelis fit with all of this? The idea of Buzelis is a ton of fun. The issue with Buzelis is that most of his game is theoretical.
For everyone claiming he’s a good shooter, he was not a good shooter playing for the G League Ignite this season. He’s never had a ton of scoring punch off the dribble, isn’t a big-time athlete, and needs to add strength and awareness on the defensive side of the ball. Buzelis makes sense at this point in the draft because of the lotto ticket that his future presents. Buzelis is gigantic, and he has some passing feel to him. If the jumper ever comes around, he could be dangerous as a perimeter gravity guy. Once again, the issue is that he hasn’t shown much of that up to this point. The Bulls, with all of their question marks, could look to Buzelis as a long-term building block of the future whenever they decide to move on from their current crop of vets.
#12. OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER (via HOU) - Tidjane Salaun, F, Cholet
Profile: 6’9”, 203
Year: 2005 Born (18)
9.5 PTS, 3.8 REB, 0.9 AST, 1.0 STL, 0.2 BLK
39.6 FG%, 31.6 3P%, 81.5 FT%
With a young roster and impressive depth at nearly every position, there are not a lot of holes that the Thunder can fill with the players left at this point in the draft. Oklahoma City then swings for the fences with Tidjane Salaun. Listed at 6’9”, Salaun has shown impressive flashes of shotmaking from the perimeter in his first full season at the senior level in France. His combination of size, off-ball scoring, and defensive motor fit extremely well around Shai’s playmaking, Chet’s paint dominance, and Jalen Williams’s two-way impact. If the flashes of perimeter self-creation turn into a consistent weapon, Salaun could be the missing piece that gets the Thunder over the hump.
#13. SACRAMENTO KINGS - Jared McCain, G, Duke
Profile: 6’3”, 197
Year: Freshman (20)
14.3 PTS, 5.0 REB, 1.9 AST, 1.1 STL, 0.1 BLK
46.2 FG%, 41.4 3P%, 88.5 FT%
The Kings have a good roster, but they are coming off a bit of a letdown. They didn’t make the playoffs, and they seemed to have had some players regress in production. To make things more difficult, one of their most important players–Malik Monk–may be one of the highest-paid free agents this summer. Should they lose a bidding war to keep him around, Sacramento can recoup some of what they would lose in drafting Jared McCain. McCain is about the same size and build as Monk, and had a season where he shot over 41% on threes on very good volume.
While there may be concerns about his wingspan (about neutral to his 6’3” height), Jared was a very good rebounder–one of the most translatable skills. He is also built very sturdily and is capable of taking on contact. He was also more of an on-ball player in high school, so there may be some strong upside in that regard. The upside is nice, but his instant-fix floor spacing gets him on the floor should Monk play elsewhere.
#14. PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS (via GSW) - Tristan da Silva, F, Colorado
Profile: 6’9”, 229
Year: Senior (22)
16.0 PTS, 5.1 REB, 2.4 AST, 1.1 STL, 0.6 BLK
49.2 FG%, 39.5 3P%, 83.5 FT%
The Trail Blazers need some legitimate two-way versatility on the wing. They have some intriguing hypothetical players who could eventually grow into quality players, but almost none of them have shown the year-over-year consistency that Tristan da Silva has. Da Silva doesn’t have an overly sexy game, but it is incredibly consistent and reliable. There are plenty of players who have a higher ceiling, but almost none of them have as reliable of a floor.
Da Silva is one of those players that teams just shouldn’t overthink. He is an efficient scorer, smart passer, and versatile defender. He’s consistently in the right place and making the right decisions. Da Silva is the exact type of forward who makes life easier for his teammates because of his consistency and versatility.
#15. MIAMI HEAT - Devin Carter, G, Providence
Profile: 6’3”, 195
Year: Junior (22)
19.7 PTS, 8.7 REB, 3.6 AST, 1.8 STL, 1.0 BLK
47.3 FG%, 37.7 3P%, 74.9 FT%
No culture clash here, as Devin Carter to the Heat may be the most frequent pairing you’ll see across all outlets. Carter is essentially college basketball’s version of Troy Polamalu, as he plays basketball with great infectious intensity. It’s like his hair is on fire. Son of former NBA player, Anthony Carter, Devin has a very strong frame, which allows him to guard up and down the lineup. He is also one of the best rebounders in college basketball–not just for a guard. Consider how valuable rebounding guards are.
You need to look no further than the playoffs. Players like Josh Hart and Brandin Podziemski are tremendously valuable for their squads because they can end or continue possessions solely from their effort on the glass. Carter has also grown as a three point shooter, putting up a percentage just under 38% on 11.2 attempts per 100. Even if his percentage turns out to be “just average” at the next level, teams will still have to respect him from deep while also fearing him on the other side of the floor. Not every player is guaranteed to see the floor in their rookie season–and that expectation drops as the picks continue. But, one way for a player to earn the trust of their coaches is doing the winning things. That is where Devin should excel.
#16. PHILADELPHIA 76ERS - Kyle Filipowski, F/C, Duke
Profile: 7’0”, 248
Year: Sophomore (20)
16.4 PTS, 8.3 REB, 2.8 AST, 1.1 STL, 1.5 BLK
50.5 FG%, 34.8 3P%, 67.1 FT%
There aren’t very many 7-footers in the NBA that can do the things that Kyle Filipowski can do on offense. There also aren’t many teams that can play two 7-footers next to each other and still be able to function on both sides of the ball. “Flip” has the ability to dribble-pass-shoot, and could easily line up as the four for the Sixers. He and Joel Embiid can space the floor for one another. Kyle running a DHO with Tyrese Maxey could prove to be very potent.
While Filipowski may not have high marks on the defensive end, he can be very solid on that end. He plays hard, is mobile enough to be neutral in space, rebounds well, and doesn’t shy away from contact in the paint. Should Embiid need to sit out for injury/rest, there is also some upside with Flip playing some five. There are several possibilities for Philly during their offseason, but taking one of the more offensively diverse 7-footers in the class could help the Sixers win on the margin.
#17. NEW ORLEANS PELICANS (via LAL) - Isaiah Collier, G, USC
Profile: 6’4”, 205
Year: Freshman (19)
16.3 PTS, 2.9 REB, 4.3 AST, 1.5 STL, 0.2 BLK
49.0 FG%, 33.8 3P%, 67.3 FT%
The New Orleans Pelicans will generate plenty of buzz this offseason when it comes to the direction of the organization. Although many have pointed to this class as “weaker” overall, the depth could be intriguing for a team like New Orleans, who is armed with two picks in the first round. The Pelicans have a roster that features a wide range of versatile pieces. For now, the Pelicans add one of the top talents remaining on the board in USC freshman guard Isaiah Collier.
Considered during the preseason as one of the top floor generals in this class, Collier could offer some steal appeal in this class, especially with the right fit. He’s a bully-ball point guard, who can overpower defenders with his strength and ability to get downhill in the blink of an eye. Collier struggled in the beginning of the year with turnovers, but he showed some tremendous improvements in the second half of the year. For a team like the Pelicans, Collier could be a legit burst of life in the backcourt rotation, with the upside to turn into a strong asset moving forward.
#18. ORLANDO MAGIC - Kyshawn George, W, Miami
Profile: 6’8”, 205
Year: Freshman (20)
7.6 PTS, 3.0 REB, 2.2 AST, 0.9 STL, 0.4 BLK
42.6 FG%, 40.8 3P%, 77.8 FT%
At this point in their timeline, we know what the Magic are. They’re one of the best defensive teams in the league; they have some really fun young guys that they’re building around and just took the Cavaliers to seven games in the first round of the playoffs. As fun as this team has been to watch, watching them try to score at the end of games has been not so fun. This team needs more shooting. The Magic took a shot on Jett Howard in the lottery last year, hoping he’d add perimeter shooting and spacing. Howard spent much time playing for Orlando’s G League affiliate this past season. Although the organization still believes in Howard, adding a sniper like Kyshawn George at this point of the draft would not be a terrible idea. George played on a cluttered Miami team and was asked to play a simplified role with many returners.
George spent much of his time sitting in the corner, but he didn’t waste that time, hitting 40.8% of his shots from three and was in the 92nd percentile on catch-and-shoot jumpers. Kyshawn is a jumbo wing at 6’9”, can handle the ball, and can really pass as well. With all their multi-faceted wings on their roster, adding another one that can actually shoot it from outside could be a lot of fun for an already fun Orlando squad. This wouldn’t be a sign that they’re giving up on Jett Howard; this would just be them doubling down on a real area of need and hoping one or both pan out. In the modern NBA, you can never have enough shooting.
#19. TORONTO RAPTORS - Jaylon Tyson, G, California
Profile: 6’7”, 215
Year: Junior (21)
19.6 PTS, 6.8 REB, 3.5 AST, 1.2 STL, 0.5 BLK
46.5 FG%, 36.0 3P%, 79.6 FT%
Jaylon Tyson has been a player that has seen his name rise as of late. The 6’7” Junior coming from California has great size for the swing position–something that is fairly lacking outside of the projected lottery players. Not only does he possess good size and athleticism, but Tyson brings true two-way promise. He shot 36% from deep–oftentimes self-created–and had success around the basket. Defensively, he figures to guard out on the wing fairly well.
At Cal, Jaylon had to do a ton with the ball in his hands, which helped him develop skills that will help him in the future. With a more scaled-down role with Toronto, Tyson can be trusted to hit open shots, make the right reads when he is chased off the line, be a plus-transition player, and finish well at the rim. The Raptors do have a number of wings, but going with a player with lottery-level upside makes this decision make sense, and gives Toronto more options within their rotations.
#20. CLEVELAND CAVALIERS - Tyler Smith, F, G League Ignite
Profile: 6’11”, 224
Year: 2004 Born (19)
13.7 PTS, 5.1 REB, 1.3 AST, 0.8 STL, 0.9 BLK
48.0 FG%, 36.0 3P%, 73.2 FT%
Regardless of whatever roster shakeups the Cavaliers experience, Tyler Smith provides a ton of complementary tools that this rotation could use. Smith’s perimeter defense was a mess this season, but there’s room for optimism as he showed some really promising signs as a weakside shot blocker. The selling point with Smith, though, is his shooting and athletic tools. Smith can really punish a defense from outside via spotting up or pick-and-pop. Smith’s athletic tools also give him a ton of upside as a cutter and attacking closeouts. His combination of outside shooting and shot blocking makes him a fun complement to either Evan Mobley or Jarrett Allen’s defense.
#21. NEW ORLEANS PELICANS (via MIL) - Kel’el Ware, F/C, Indiana
Profile: 7’0”, 233
Year: Sophomore (19)
15.9 PTS, 9.9 REB, 1.5 AST, 0.6 STL, 1.9 BLK
58.6 FG%, 42.5 3P%, 63.4 FT%
After adding some backcourt depth earlier with the selection of Isaiah Collier, the Pelicans could look to add some frontcourt depth here. The 2024 NBA draft class is going to offer some intriguing depth, especially when it comes to the big man position. Kel’el Ware transferred to Indiana after a disappointing freshman year at Oregon, and he delivered when it came to the flashes of potential.
It was a favorable fit for Ware this year, as Indiana gave him the opportunity to showcase his tools with plenty of touches. There have been previous concerns about the motor before, but Ware produced at a high level this year and could be an interesting fit for New Orleans given the defensive assets on the roster. With some intriguing shot-blocking upside and floor spacing potential, Ware could be an intriguing add for a Pelicans team that could make his role simple early on, given their roster depth.
#22. PHOENIX SUNS - Hunter Sallis, G, Wake Forest
Profile: 6’5”, 185
Year: Junior (21)
18.0 PTS, 4.1 REB, 2.5 AST, 1.1 STL, 0.6 BLK
48.7 FG%, 40.5 3P%, 78.3 FT%
It turns out that the point guard position is very important. In fact, it was apparently asked for, but shot down at one point during Phoenix’s season. It’s very unlikely that the Suns go into the next year without a point, and there are still a number of guard prospects that they could draft here. Hunter Sallis may not be the biggest name on the biggest of boards, but the former Top 25 prospect made a name for himself (again) at Wake Forest.
Listed at 6’5”, Sallis brings good size, but also some juice on the ball that teams won’t find outside of the lottery. He made huge strides as a shooter this season, and some dynamic, creative finishing skills. He isn’t widely known as a playmaker, but he did take a good step in that regard as well. Hunter posted a positive assist-to-turnover ratio and rarely turned the ball over. At Gonzaga, Sallis showed very good perimeter defense, and he posted solid numbers for the Decs, too. Sallis’s ability to create on and off of the ball gives him the edge in terms of fit with Phoenix’s big three–all of whom have a high probability of returning.
#23. MILWAUKEE BUCKS (via NOLA) - Nique Clifford, W, Colorado State
Profile: 6’6”, 191
Year: Senior (22)
12.2 PTS, 7.6 REB, 3.0 AST, 1.4 STL, 0.9 BLK
52.2 FG%, 37.6 3P%, 75.9 FT%
The Milwaukee Bucks looked old this year. There was an alarming lack of athleticism, perimeter defense, and off-ball scoring. When we look at Nique Clifford’s game: check, check, and check. Clifford still isn’t getting the recognition his season deserves, but he is very much a first round talent. For starters, Clifford is a terrific perimeter defender who can match up with nearly anyone. He is strong, physical, and fundamentally sound.
He’d quickly be one of Milwaukee’s best perimeter defenders. Offensively, Clifford isn’t an on-ball threat, but he is an elite off-ball scorer. He’s an efficient spot-up shooter and is far from inept when run off the line. Clifford consistently attacked closeouts to finish at the rim, score in the midrange, or create for others. With the Bucks, Clifford’s two-way effectiveness and versatility will make life easier for their stars.
#24. NEW YORK KNICKS (via DAL) - Ja’Kobe Walter, G, Baylor
Profile: 6’5”, 195
Year: Freshman (19)
14.5 PTS, 4.4 REB, 1.4 AST, 1.1 STL, 0.2 BLK
37.6 FG%, 34.1 3P%, 79.2 FT%
If the Knicks walk away with Ja’Kobe Walter at this point in the draft, it would be another masterclass from Leon Rose and company. Walter did not have the freshman season that many thought he would have after coming out hot at the beginning of the season. Let’s talk about what Walter is: he can shoot the cover off the ball, has good size for an off-ball guard/wing, and is projected to be a strong defender.
Walter might be available here because he didn’t get to show off a ton of that in his freshman season. He shot 37.6% from the field, which might make your eyes bleed, but the mechanics of the shot are good. Thibs is famous for not playing rookies a ton, so this may be the perfect spot to sit behind and learn from guys like OG Anunoby and Josh Hart. Miles McBride spent a couple of years on the Knicks bench and is now playing crucial minutes in the playoffs for the Knicks. The Knicks could use more shooting and scoring around Brunson and Randle, and in a couple of years, Walter may become that guy.
#25. NEW YORK KNICKS - DaRon Holmes II, F/C, Dayton
Profile: 6’10”, 221
Year: Junior (21)
20.4 PTS, 8.5 REB, 2.6 AST, 0.9 STL, 2.1 BLK
54.4 FG%, 38.6 3P%, 71.3 FT%
Taj Gibson 2.0? Maybe. DaRon Holmes is listed at 6 '10”, and can play the four or the five. He is a very good athlete that posted a minutes percentage of 80.7%. Holmes does a great job of rebounding, even as a player that saw most of his offensive role drift to the outside. That’s not to say that he can’t play on the interior; Holmes finished in the 86th percentile around the rim last season. While he can score inside and shoot almost 39% from deep, he also competes on defense.
We all know that is a “must” for Coach Thibodeau. Holmes has never posted a block percentage below 6.5, and he is also coming off a season with a steal percentage of 1.8. Holmes crashes the glass with the best of them, and he also takes great care of the ball. We’ve seen Coach Thibodeau have success with players like Gibson and Bobby Portis. DaRon Holmes looks to be next in line to earn a strong reputation and play in the NBA for a long time.
#26. WASHINGTON WIZARDS (via LAC) - Yves Missi, C, Baylor
Profile: 6’10”, 235
Year: Freshman (19)
10.7 PTS, 5.6 REB, 0.4 AST, 0.6 STL, 1.5 BLK
61.4 FG%, N/A 3P%, 61.6 FT%
The Wizards need to cover a multitude of holes within their roster. Grabbing Missi here gives DC the best chance they have at correcting their big man position at this stage in the draft. Missi isn’t going to offer up the upside on offense that other bigs can, but he can screen and role at a good clip. That just so happens to fit well with what their earlier pick, Nikola Topic, will need. Missi, as a lob threat, meshes with Topic well, but he can also get up the floor in transition. He is also a prolific offensive rebounder.
Defensively, Yves can do the things big men in the NBA do: keep the ball out of the basket. Putting up a block percentage of 7.1, Missi can be a rim deterrent. That will help cover mistakes that could come from Washington’s perimeter defense. There will likely be teams that look to space Missi off the floor but his ground coverage is impressive. Some teams ahead of Washington may fall in love with the allure that comes with big men who can shoot. That just means that the Wizards can get a contributor in the latter part of the first round.
#27. MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES - Dillon Jones, F, Weber St.
Profile: 6’6”, 235
Year: Junior (22)
20.8 PTS, 9.8 REB, 5.2 AST, 2.0 STL, 0.1 BLK
48.9 FG%, 32.4 3P%, 85.7 FT%
The Minnesota Timberwolves have started to become a team that looks destined to be a top-notch defensive team for years to come. Given that identity, it will be interesting to see if the Wolves pivot to look toward adding some offensive versatility in this year’s class. One of the most fascinating names in the 2024 class is Weber State forward Dillon Jones.
After an impressive 2022-23 season and NBA Draft combine outing, Jones decided to return to Weber State for another year to double down on improving his draft stock. It was a wise decision, as Jones put up eye-opening production across the board. There will be fans in front offices, as Jones has an impressive feel for the game offensively that pairs well with his versatility. He’s shown the ability to stretch the floor while also bullying his way to the basket with ease. If teams are buying that Jones can provide some lineup versatility with his offensive weaponry, he could be a name that goes comfortably in the first round.
#28. DENVER NUGGETS - Alex Karaban, F, UConn
Profile: 6’8”, 210
Year: RS-Sophomore (21)
13.5 PTS, 4.9 REB, 1.4 AST, 0.9 STL, 0.8 BLK
49.6 FG%, 38.2 3P%, 87.7 FT%
The Denver Nuggets have been the team stuck on repeat in a very good way. They continue to find players that fit within their system. That system demands players who make smart reads and are able to bring a skill that doesn’t overlap but also complements the other four players on the floor. That is what has made them a winning team. Bringing in another player who is a winner, complements the talent around him, and makes good reads seems to be the best way to go. Alex Karaban is such a player. Playing on a multi-time championship team brings a certain allure that winning teams covet.
It also helps when you’re anywhere from 6’8” to 6’9”, and have a flamethrower from deep. In his two seasons with UConn, Alex shot just under 39% from three. He’s also averaged about five rebounds per game and is one of the more under-appreciated defenders in this class. He isn’t the most bursty forward, but shows good anticipation skills and understanding of how to utilize his length. Karaban is likely to be passed up by several teams in the draft but should the Nuggets get him, everyone will writhe in anguish if he were to fall to them. This may be one of the best player/team fits on this mock.
#29. UTAH JAZZ (via OKC) - Tyler Kolek, G, Marquette
Profile: 6’3”, 195
Year: Senior (23)
15.3 PTS, 4.9 REB, 7.7 AST, 1.6 STL, 0.2 BLK
49.6 FG%, 38.8 3P%, 85.1 FT%
Keyonte George made meaningful strides as an on-ball creator last season, but he still projects as more of a combo guard. After taking a swing on a dynamic wing in Ron Holland in the lottery, the Jazz could still use a ready-to-play point guard. Enter Tyler Kolek. Few players in the country ran a better offense than Kolek did at Marquette this season.
He’s a big-time shooter who effortlessly collapses the defense. While Kolek isn’t an overly explosive athlete, he has a quick first step that allows him to find his way to the rim with ease. Once there, Kolek is an excellent below-the-rim finisher and, more importantly, playmaker. Kolek won’t necessarily change the championship odds for the Jazz, but he makes his teammates better and certainly raises the team’s floor.
#30. BOSTON CELTICS - Zach Edey, C, Purdue
Profile: 7’4”, 300
Year: Senior (22)
25.0 PTS, 12.2 REB, 2.0 AST, 0.3 STL, 2.2 BLK
62.4 FG%, 50.0 3P% (0.1A), 71.0 FT%
The Boston Celtics are going to find themselves with a roster that doesn’t feature a lot of holes. The foundation is signed for the foreseeable future, meaning that the Celtics could be looking to build out the depth on their roster, especially with the new CBA impact.
No player in college basketball has been as impressive as former Purdue big man Zach Edey over the last couple of years. Edey is a gigantic human being, but the strides in conditioning and feel have been sensational over the years. For a team like the Celtics, Edey can be a strong asset in the rotation to give valuable minutes off the bench. Edey is a force on the boards who could thrive with additional defensive-minded assets around him. For a team like the Celtics, Edey would be an intelligent addition, as it could pay off to have a unique weapon off the bench.
SECOND ROUND
#31. TORONTO RAPTORS (via DET) - Ryan Dunn, W, Virginia
Profile: 6’8”, 216
Year: Sophomore (21)
8.1 PTS, 6.9 REB, 0.8 AST, 1.3 STL, 2.3 BLK
54.8 FG%, 20.0 3P%, 53.2 FT%
#32. UTAH JAZZ (via WAS) - Johnny Furphy, W, Kansas
Profile: 6’9”, 202
Year: Freshman (19)
9.0 PTS, 4.9 REB, 1.0 AST, 0.9 STL, 0.3 BLK
46.6 FG%, 35.2 3P%, 76.5 FT%
#33. MILWAUKEE BUCKS (via POR) - Carlton Carrington, G, Pittsburgh
Profile: 6’5”, 190
Year: Freshman (18)
13.8 PTS, 5.2 REB, 4.1 AST, 0.6 STL, 0.2 BLK
41.2 FG%, 32.2 3P%, 78.5 FT%
#34. PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS (via CHA) - AJ Johnson, G, Illawarra Hawks
Profile: 6’5”, 160
Year: 2004 Born (19)
2.9 PTS, 1.2 REB, 0.8 AST, 0.2 STL, 0.1 BLK
35.5 FG%, 27.8 3P%, 53.8 FT%
#35. SAN ANTONIO SPURS - Mark Sears, G, Alabama
Profile: 6’1”, 185
Year: Senior (22)
21.5 PTS, 4.1 REB, 4.1 AST, 1.7 STL, 0.1 BLK
50.4 FG%, 43.4 3P%, 85.9 FT%
#36. INDIANA PACERS (via TOR) - Kevin McCullar, W, Kansas
Profile: 6’7”, 212
Year: Senior (23)
18.3 PTS, 6.0 REB, 4.1 AST, 1.5 STL, 0.4 BLK
45.4 FG%, 33.3 3P%, 80.5 FT%
#37. MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES (via MEM) - Pacome Dadiet, W, Ratiopharm Ulm
Profile: 6’8”, 187
Year: 2005 Born (18)
6.5 PTS, 2.2 REB, 0.6 AST, 0.6 STL, 0.1 BLK
49.2 FG%, 35.0 3P%, 75.3 FT%
#38. NEW YORK KNICKS (via UTA) - Payton Sandfort, W, Iowa
Profile: 6’7”, 215
Year: Junior (21)
16.4 PTS, 6.6 REB, 2.7 AST, 0.7 STL, 0.4 BLK
44.6 FG%, 37.9 3P%, 91.1 FT%
#39. MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES (via BRK) - Jonathan Mogbo, F, San Francisco
Profile: 6’8”, 225
Year: Junior (22)
14.2 PPG, 10.1 REB, 3.6 AST, 1.6 STL, 0.8 BLK
63.6 FG%, 0.0 3P%, 69.2 FT%
#40. PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS (via ATL) - Trentyn Flowers, F, Adelaide 36ers
Profile: 6’8”, 205
Year: 2005 Born (19)
5.5 PTS, 3.1 REB, 0.6 AST, 0.2 STL, 0.1 BLK
43.6 FG%, 35.7 3P%, 64.9 FT%
#41. PHILADELPHIA 76ERS (via CHI) - Jamal Shead, G, Houston
Profile: 6’1”, 200
Year: Senior (21)
12.9 PTS, 3.7 REB, 6.3 AST, 2.2 STL, 0.5 BLK
40.9 FG%, 30.9 3P%, 77.9 FT%
#42. CHARLOTTE HORNETS (via HOU) - Baylor Scheierman, W, Creighton
Profile: 6’7”, 205
Year: Senior (23)
18.5 PTS, 9.0 REB, 3.9 AST, 0.9 STL, 0.1 BLK
44.8 FG%, 38.1 3P%, 87.6 FT%
#43. MIAMI HEAT - Bobi Klintman, F, Cairns Taipans
Profile: 6’10”, 225
Year: 2003 Born (21)
10.2 PTS, 4.7 REB, 0.9 AST, 1.0 STL, 0.5 BLK
43.4 FG%, 33.7 3P%, 81.3 FT%
#44. HOUSTON ROCKETS (via GSW) - Adem Bona, C, UCLA
Profile: 6’9”, 243
Year: Sophomore (21)
12.4 PTS, 5.9 REB, 1.2 AST, 1.1 STL, 1.8 BLK
58.8 FG%, 0.0 3P%, 69.6 FT%
#45. SACRAMENTO KINGS - Ajay Mitchell, G, UC Santa Barbara
Profile: 6’5”, 190
Year: Junior (21)
20.0 PTS, 4.0 REB, 4.0 AST, 1.2 STL, 0.4 BLK
50.4 FG%, 39.3 3P%, 85.8 FT%
#46. LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS (via IND) - Justin Edwards, W, Kentucky
Profile: 6’8”, 203
Year: Freshman (20)
8.8 PTS, 3.4 REB, 0.9 AST, 0.9 STL, 0.2 BLK
48.6 FG%, 36.5 3P%, 77.6 FT%
#47. ORLANDO MAGIC - Antonio Reeves, G, Kentucky
Profile: 6’6”, 195
Year: Senior (23)
20.2 PTS, 4.2 REB, 1.6 AST, 0.7 STL, 0.2 BLK
51.2 FG%, 44.7 3P%, 86.3 FT%
#48. SAN ANTONIO SPURS (via LAL) - Cam Spencer, G, UConn
Profile: 6’4”, 205
Year: Senior (24)
14.3 PTS, 4.9 REB, 3.6 AST, 1.5 STL, 0.3 BLK
48.4 FG%, 44.0 3P%, 91.1 FT%
FORFEITED - PHILADELPHIA 76ERS
#49. INDIANA PACERS (via CLE) - Jamir Watkins, F, Florida State
Profile: 6’7”, 210
Year: Junior (22)
15.6 PTS, 6.0 REB, 2.8 AST, 1.9 STL, 0.8 BLK
45.7 FG%, 34.4 3P%, 79.5 FT%
#50. INDIANA PACERS (via NOLA) - Cam Christie, G, Minnesota
Profile: 6’6”, 190
Year: Freshman (18)
11.3 PTS, 3.6 REB, 2.2 AST, 0.6 STL, 0.3 BLK
40.3 FG%, 39.1 3P%, 79.1 FT%
#51. WASHINGTON WIZARDS (via PHX) - Nikola Djurisic, F, MEGA
Profile: 6’8”, 218
Year: 2004 Born (20)
15.2 PTS, 2.9 REB, 3.4 AST, 1.1 STL, 0.4 BLK
44.9 FG%, 32.5 3P%, 76.2 FT%
#52. GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS (via MIL) - Harrison Ingram, F, North Carolina
Profile: 6’7”, 233
Year: Junior (21)
12.2 PTS, 8.8 REB, 2.2 AST, 1.4 STL, 0.4 BLK
43.0 FG%, 38.5 3P%, 61.2 FT%
#53. DETROIT PISTONS (via NYK) - Melvin Ajinca, W, Saint Quentin
Profile: 6’8”, 210
Year: 2004 Born (19)
10.1 PTS, 3.2 REB, 0.8 AST, 0.5 STL, 0.1 BLK
39.9 FG%, 34.8 3P%, 79.7 FT%
#54. BOSTON CELTICS (via DAL) - Isaiah Crawford, F, Louisiana Tech Bulldogs
Profile: 6’6”, 220
Year: Senior (22)
16.3 PTS, 6.2 REB, 2.4 AST, 2.1 STL, 1.7 BLK
48.5 FG%, 41.4 3P%, 72.8 FT%
#55. LOS ANGELES LAKERS (via LAC) - KJ Simpson, G, Colorado
Profile: 6’2”, 189
Year: Junior (21)
19.7 PTS, 5.8 REB, 4.9 AST, 1.6 STL, 0.1 BLK
47.5 FG%, 43.4 3P%, 87.6 FT%
#56. DENVER NUGGETS (via MIN) - Ariel Hukporti, C, Melbourne United
Profile: 7’0”, 250
Year: 2002 Born (22)
8.0 PTS, 7.1 REB, 0.7 AST, 0.5 STL, 1.5 BLK
56.3 FG%, N/A 3P%, 61.7 FT%
#57. MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES (via OKC) - Ulrich Chomche, F/C, NBA Academy Africa
Profile: 6’11”, 225
Year: 2005 Born (18)
13.0 PTS, 9.0 REB, 3.3 AST, 1.3 STL, 2.7 BLK
42.4 FG%, 38.1 3P%, 75.0 FT%
* 3 Games *
FORFEITED - PHOENIX SUNS (via DEN)
#58. DALLAS MAVERICKS (via BOS) - PJ Hall, F/C, Clemson
Profile: 6’10”, 245
Year: Senior (22)
18.3 PTS, 6.4 REB, 1.4 AST, 0.8 STL, 1.4 BLK
48.8 FG%, 31.5 3P%, 77.9 FT%
I think lots of teams will be very active in packaging picks from this draft in trades...Houston reportedly wants to move its 3rd to get a win-now player
Interesting drops for Walter and McCullar. Any chance either can rebuild that stock before June?