2024 NBA Mock Draft 1.0: Hawks, Trae Young take center stage

The Atlanta Hawks have won the NBA Draft Lottery, the first time they have ever been awarded the first overall pick. This came after they entered Sunday with just a 3 percent chance of securing the top pick. Now, the biggest question heading into the 2024 NBA Draft on June 26 revolves around what they will do with their roster and the potential top choice. Ahead of what many are calling the least talented draft in quite some time, the Hawks have already been projected to take a few different players in NBA mock drafts across the country.

Alexandre Sarr from France is the favorite to be the first pick as of right now, but the Hawks have decisions to make regarding Trae Young and Dejounte Murray, two players who have prominently heard their names in rumors since the trade deadline in February. Unlike last season, when Victor Wembanyama to the San Antonio Spurs was a done deal as soon as they were awarded the top pick during the lottery, there is no telling as to what is to come when the 2024 NBA Draft rolls around. Expect plenty of movement, plenty of rumors, and plenty of deals to be made.

The most shocking surprise during this year's draft lottery was the Detroit Pistons, who finished with the worst record in the league at 14-68 but ended up with the fifth pick for the third consecutive year. The Houston Rockets, who own the Brooklyn Nets' pick this year, moved up to third overall, and the Spurs own both the fourth and eighth overall selections. All of these picks are in play to be traded between now and June 26.

This is a very interesting draft class. There may not be a Wembanyama or talents like Anthony Edwards or Paolo Banchero, but there is still a ton of potential. After all, you never know when a team will find a diamond in the rough that turns out to be the next cornerstone of their franchise.

With the NBA Draft Combine starting up and teams formulating their first thoughts after the lottery, there is a lot to talk about in ClutchPoints' first official 2024 NBA Mock Draft. After previously assembling the 2024 NBA Draft Big Board 1.0 in advance of the draft lottery, now it's time for my 2024 NBA Mock Draft 1.0, which is filled with projections for all 58 picks based on intel from scouts, agents, and executives from around the league.

1. Atlanta Hawks – PF/C Alexandre Sarr – France (Perth Wildcats – NBL)

When the Hawks entered the draft lottery, the expectation was that they were going to have the 10th pick in the draft and major decisions to make on the future of their two star guards. Everything has changed now that they have been awarded the first pick in this year's draft, as this could escalate the front office's thought process to go through some sort of reset by dealing either Young or Murray. Although they have Clint Capela and Onyeka Okongwu in their frontcourt, early indications point in the direction of the Hawks looking to move Capela in a trade this upcoming offseason. A move to do so would make sense, with Alexandre Sarr viewed as the most likely player to be selected first on June 26.

Sarr possesses the length, physicality, and defensive abilities to make an impact in the NBA upon being drafted. He may not be a double-double-like player, but Sarr has those intangible traits and versatility that teams look for in modern-day big guys. There is always a chance of the Hawks looking to see what type of value they could capture for this pick in a trade to move down a few spots in this year's draft. Still, the early belief among league executives is that the Hawks will be making a selection with this draft pick.

Unlike Capela, Sarr has the ability to play with confidence on the perimeter. Assuming they want to keep Young as their All-Star point guard, Sarr makes the most sense for the Hawks with the first pick, seeing as he can thrive in pick-and-roll sets. For the first time in franchise history, the Hawks will set the standard for what the NBA Draft will look like.

2. Washington Wizards – SF Zaccharie Risacher – France (JL Bourg – LNB)

What are the Washington Wizards looking for? At this point, coming off of a 15-win season, expectations shouldn't be too high for this franchise. After all, president Michael Winger has made it clear that the team is going to be building for the future, and general manager Will Dawkins comes from the Oklahoma City Thunder front office, which is notorious for gathering future assets for future success. The Wizards are going to be going with a high-potential pick in this spot. Assuming he doesn't go first overall, Zaccharie Risacher needs to be their pick.

Risacher is one of those high-potential prospects in this year's draft, but he will be a work in progress, much like Bilal Coulibaly was when the Wizards took him last summer. The French wing is a 6-foot-10 forward who has really strong instincts as a shooter from three-point range. He has a high IQ for knowing where to float around on the wing, and the 19-year-old has vastly improved his shooting form over the last year.

A duo of Coulibaly and Risacher on the wing for the Wizards instantly creates a lengthy coupling that sets the foundation for the team defensively. Risacher can be a centerpiece for the Wizards moving forward since they can spend the most time out of any team in the league fine-tuning his craft.

3. Houston Rockets – PG Rob Dillingham – Kentucky

This is where the 2024 NBA Draft will really begin. It is where most NBA mock drafts will differ. The Houston Rockets want to win right now after coming up just short of the play-in tournament, and they are going to be very aggressive in their hunt for talent that can help them improve right away. Through the years, the Rockets have gone after long-term investments with upside, such as Jalen Green, Alperen Sengun, Jabari Smith Jr., and Amen Thompson last year. As of right now, this third pick in the 2024 NBA Draft is certainly in play to be traded due to the fact that the Rockets are looking to add talent that can impact winning during the 2024-25 season. Should they potentially keep this pick, Rob Dillingham is a player they must consider with the third pick.

Over the course of his freshman year at Kentucky, Dillingham showed clear growth as a facilitator and playmaker at the point guard position. In terms of scoring, his arsenal is endless. We have seen it with Tyrese Maxey and Immanuel Quickley, two crafty scoring guards out of Kentucky. It is Dillingham's time to be the latest to make an offensive impact in a team's backcourt. There is no doubt that Dillingham can turn into the best guard in this draft class. He is ready to play from Day 1 in the league on offense as a result of his abilities to get to and score at the rim while also shooting with confidence from the perimeter.

The best part about possibly taking Dillingham is that he could play alongside Fred VanVleet or Amen Thompson in the backcourt. A pick like this also gives the Rockets a little assurance in the event that they look to trade Jalen Green or if they can't agree to an extension with him in the final year of his rookie contract. Do not be shocked if general manager Rafael Stone and the Rockets circle back with the Brooklyn Nets regarding Mikal Bridges. Houston can offer this third pick, which originally belonged to Brooklyn, second-round picks this year, a plethora of future first-round picks, and a combination of Dillon Brooks, Green, or others.

4. San Antonio Spurs – PG Nikola Topic – Serbia (Crvena zvezda – Serbia)

Once again, the Spurs found themselves lucky during the NBA Draft Lottery. The Spurs moved up one spot inside the top four, and they're now in a position to bolster their roster around Victor Wembanyama. Whether or not San Antonio keeps this pick is a mystery right now, as the No. 4 and No. 8 picks could be packaged together in a blockbuster deal to potentially land a star. Then again, why not grab two high-level, high-potential players to pair with Wemby for the future? That is why Nikola Topic needs to be the Spurs' selection should he drop to fourth overall.

Originally deemed the potential first overall pick several months ago, Topic's season overseas was cut short due to a knee injury. As of right now, there are no concerns about this injury impacting his transition to the NBA. Topic is a complete point guard who has shown a level of comfort running an offense at any speed. The Serbian guard is at his best when he is able to attack opposing defenses and get to the rim. The Spurs don't have a guard on their roster like this right now, and Topic could relieve a lot of pressure off of Wemby. Should they take him, the Spurs would be getting a true point guard who can score and make plays for others. This seems like a no-brainer in this situation.

5. Detroit Pistons – PG/SG Reed Sheppard – Kentucky

Another question mark in the draft lies with the Detroit Pistons. For the third straight year, the Pistons have ended up with the fifth overall pick. After taking Jaden Ivey in 2022 and Ausar Thompson in 2023, who will the Pistons take in 2024? If Donovan Clingan is available here, perhaps the Pistons will gauge interest in the pick to see if they can gather more assets while also moving down a few spots. Should they keep the pick, general manager Troy Weaver is going to be looking for a way to bring in a player who could impact the game from the perimeter. To me, that means either Reed Sheppard or Matas Buzelis would be their pick here.

In addition to being a key asset behind Cunningham and Ivey in the backcourt, Sheppard would instantly be a source of perimeter scoring for a team that ranked at the bottom of the league in shooting this past season. Sheppard shot 52.1 percent from three-point range during his freshman season at Kentucky, and he enters the 2024 NBA Draft as one of the better perimeter shooting threats. He is also the type of player who brings a certain level of grit and energy when he is on the floor.

Keep an eye on the Pistons because there is a sense of urgency to improve by any means necessary. That could potentially lead Detroit to trade talks involving this pick.

6. Charlotte Hornets – PG/SG Stephon Castle – UConn

If there is one thing the Charlotte Hornets need, it is insurance next to LaMelo Ball in the backcourt. Ball has been hurt way too often for the Hornets to be successful, and they will need to find ways to build their roster around Brandon Miller moving forward since he proved to be the real deal during his rookie season. Stephon Castle is a combo guard who has shot up draft boards ever since he helped lead UConn to their second title in as many seasons. The freshman guard displayed strong playmaking skills and checks off all the boxes for being a difference-maker on defense.

The best part about a player like Castle is that he is always involved, even when the ball isn't in his hands. While he shot below 30 percent from deep in college, Castle's movement off the ball on offense is what opens up driving lanes for his teammates. When he does have the ball in his hands, Castle has shown that he can really make a difference in pick-and-roll sets. The Hornets already have their frontcourt figured out when Mark Williams and Nick Richards are healthy, so finding that second complementary guard next to Ball is essential right now.

Castle could wind up being an absolute steal at sixth overall for the Hornets. He has a chance to turn into the best guard in this draft class, and it's not like his jumper is broken. Should he be able to display high confidence and decent numbers shooting wise throughout the pre-draft process, it is hard to see Castle falling out of the top six.

7. Portland Trail Blazers – C Donovan Clingan – UConn

Finally, Donovan Clingan comes off the board. As of right now, Clingan finds himself as the top-rated college prospect in this year's draft via my 2024 NBA Draft Big Board 1.o that was released before the draft lottery. The UConn big man improved from one title to the next, becoming more of a leader and defensive anchor for the Huskies this past season. He averaged 2.5 blocks per game and was fantastic against Zach Edey from Purdue, the two-time National Player of the Year, in the championship game. At this point, the Portland Trail Blazers just need winners.

Chauncey Billups is a winning head coach, and he is not the reason this team hasn't been able to succeed. Portland has a really strong scouting department when it comes to the draft, which is why getting Clingan in this spot would be a dream come true for them. Despite having Deandre Ayton, Clingan immediately improves what was one of the worst defensive teams in the league last season. They already have Scoot Henderson and Anfernee Simons in their backcourt, which is why grabbing a true pick-and-roll big man who could bring toughness and rim protection on defense would be the smart pick here.

After finishing last in the Western Conference, Portland is expected to be busy heading into the draft regarding trade talks. The Blazers are willing to discuss trades involving Robert Williams III, who is coming off of right knee surgery, and it is possible that they would make Ayton available if Clingan was their pick in the draft. When fully healthy, this Blazers team, on paper, doesn't look as bad as it turned out to be. Henderson, Simons, Shaedon Sharpe, and Clingan could create a strong, youthful core next to veterans like Jerami Grant and Malcolm Brogdon.

8. San Antonio Spurs – SF Matas Buzelis – G League Ignite

Already having Topic from the fourth overall pick, the Spurs now have a chance to grab another top-rated player from this draft class. The idea of packaging both of their first-round picks, or trading one away for more value, is certainly an option for the Spurs. But the idea of adding two more core pieces next to Wembanyama for many years to come is just too much to pass up on. In addition to Topic, the Spurs also have an interest in Rob Dillingham, sources told ClutchPoints. Dillingham, or Topic, if available, could be in play for the Spurs with this eighth pick if they go in a different direction at the top of the draft. However, after taking Topic, there is one clear answer for who San Antonio needs with this eighth pick.

Matas Buzelis is going to be utilized as a scoring weapon early on in his career due to his perimeter instincts. The G League Ignite product is yet another player who has heard his name come up in discussion with the first overall pick because he can practically play anywhere and be effective offensively. Unlike most 6-foot-11 wings, Buzelis is also a strong passer who can operate as a point forward at times. This would be a high-upside pick for the Spurs in this situation, who could really benefit from having a true weapon on the wing next to Devin Vassell.

A core of Wembanyama, Vassell, Topic, Buzelis, and Jeremy Sochan, with Keldon Johnson still on the roster, instantly puts the Spurs in a similar position to when Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobili, and Tony Park were first starting out with one another. Not to mention, the length this core would possess with Buzelis on the wing and Wemby underneath would be unmatched. Bright days are ahead for the Spurs.

9. Memphis Grizzlies – SF Cody Williams – Colorado

The Memphis Grizzlies always target athletes. Since drafting Ja Morant in 2019, the Grizzlies have drafted the likes of Trey Murphy III, Vince Williams Jr., and GG Jackson. Obviously, Murphy was sent to New Orleans before he was really ever a member of the Grizzlies. I would expect the trend of general manager Zach Kleiman targeting athletic wings to continue with the selection of Cody Williams, the brother of Oklahoma City Thunder guard Jalen Williams. There is a lot to like about Williams going to the Grizzlies, assuming Memphis holds onto this pick.

Williams is a lengthy 6'8″ forward with a wingspan that exceeds seven feet. He proved to be a great spot-up three-point shooter at Colorado, and Williams would be put in a system where he could really showcase his defensive abilities. This is especially true in transition. The Grizzlies are a fast team when they have Morant leading the way. The 2024-25 season is not only going to be about revenge for Memphis, but is also going to be about getting back to their roots. This team is weak on the wing right now, which is why a do-it-all guy who can play with or without the ball in his hands on offense makes a ton of sense here.

Keep an eye on the Grizzlies going after a big man in this draft, as they value Donovan Clingan's defensive abilities, sources said. However, general manager Zach Kleiman is always looking for experienced options. This narrative will remain the same heading into the offseason and free agency, as the Grizzlies look to prove they are still contenders in the West when at full strength. Do not be surprised if this pick is dangled in trade talks right up to when a selection needs to be made.

Also, keep tabs on the situation in New Orleans with Jonas Valanciunas. Word around the street is that the Pelicans and Valanciunas will be going their separate ways, with the veteran center hitting free agency. A reunion between the Lithuanian big man and the Grizzlies would make a lot of sense, especially if he is willing to give up a little bit of money to return to Memphis.

10. Utah Jazz – SF Ron Holland – G League Ignite

One player with a top-five grade remains on the board in this spot, and that is Ron Holland from the G League Ignite. It would not be surprising if some teams around the league have Holland rated as the top prospect in this year's draft class. If it weren't for a thumb injury this past G League season, Holland would be in the discussion for the top overall pick. In his limited playing time, Holland showcased his defensive abilities and really highlighted his potential as an explosive scorer on the wing.

Still just 18 years old and 19 by the time NBA Summer League rolls around, Holland is scratching the surface of the player he can become. The Utah Jazz already have their backcourt figured out with Jordan Clarkson, Collin Sexton, and rookie standout Keyonte George. Even if they were to trade Sexton or Clarkson, the Jazz would still be alright in the backcourt. Even though Lauri Markkanen was put in the small forward spot at times, he is more than comfortable sharing the court with another forward. Holland could be a very unique option for the Jazz here because he could take on the responsibility of being a primary defender, which allows Markkanen to focus more on his offensive game.

Holland can run 24/7, and he can be a deadly player when pushing the pace in transition. The Jazz ranked 10th in pace of play this past season. However, they were not all that great at scoring in transition or off turnovers. That is where Holland can come in handy because of his ability to poke the ball away and get down the floor before his opponents. He will obviously need to work on his shooting and ball-handling skills at the next level, but Holland can blossom into something special. Utah can afford to gamble on a player like this while they retool around Markkanen.

11. Chicago Bulls – PG Isaiah Collier – USC

DeMar DeRozan is a free agent this offseason, but the Chicago Bulls haven't shown any signs that they are prepared to move on from the veteran star. With Zach LaVine's future still in question, as well as Patrick Williams being a restricted free agent that the team may decline to pay a lot to if another organization signs him to an offer sheet, the Bulls need to start focusing on the future. However, trying to figure out what Chicago is going to do pertaining to the NBA Draft is a roll of the dice. Coby White needs another guard next to him that can help facilitate and create offense. That is where a guy like Isaiah Collier could come in handy.

Collier is a bigger guard at 6'5″ who is more than confident being the lead guard for his team's offense. At USC, he averaged 4.3 assists per game and displayed strong abilities for getting to the rim. At the same time, there are some concerns about Collier's ability to defend in one-on-one situations. Not to mention, he was a little too confident as a passer at times, which led to turnovers during his freshman season.

Overall, Collier is a scorer, much like how White was labeled coming out of North Carolina a handful of years ago. The Bulls need a player who is confident in his abilities to create scoring opportunities. Who knows what the future holds for LaVine at this point? So going out in the draft and adding a dynamic, flashy scorer who can lead the second unit is not a bad idea. Should he develop a consistent jumper and use his lateral quickness more efficiently on defense, Collier would be a terrific addition in Chicago.

12. Oklahoma City Thunder – SG/SF Dalton Knecht – Tennessee

Win or lose to the Dallas Mavericks in the Western Conference Semifinals, it is clear to see that Sam Presti's magic has worked for the Oklahoma City Thunder. This is an organization no longer rebuilding, so should they hold onto this lottery pick, the Thunder are going to be searching for a player who is able to come in and aid this team off the bench. Oklahoma City has a clear need for another big man for rebounding purposes next to Holmgren, but going after a player like Kyle Filipowski or Tyler Smith may not make the most sense in this spot. They really don't have a need for a guard right now after drafting Cason Wallace last season.

Dalton Knecht is an interesting name for the Thunder to consider for a variety of reasons. First off, he is the highest-rated senior and an experienced player who could be a key role player in the second unit right away. This past year at Tennessee, Knecht shot 39.7 percent from three-point range and averaged over 20 points per game. Despite being 23, there is still upside to Knecht because of his shooting abilities, either in catch-and-shoot situations or coming off screens.

If there is one thing the Thunder like, it is perimeter-oriented players who can make a difference as shooters while working on their defensive prowess. Knecht fits this mold perfectly, and he is even a player the Thunder could be using right now in the playoffs off of their bench. It wouldn't come as a shock if OKC has their eyes on someone else a little bit farther down the draft board. More clarity on this will be provided after the NBA Draft Combine.

13. Sacramento Kings – PG/SG Devin Carter – Providence

Missing the playoffs after winning 46 games has to sting for the Sacramento Kings. This organization has made a lot of moves through the years to build itself into a successful organization, yet the 2023-24 season presented them with a step back. Kevin Huerter had shoulder surgery, Keegan Murray has yet to truly step into the No. 2 scoring role they imagined he could, and Malik Monk is set to be a free agent. There are a lot of questions revolving around this franchise right now in terms of what they do to upgrade their immediate outlook in the Western Conference.

Regardless of whether Monk leaves in free agency, the Kings are going to need to find ways to get better defensively. They have the talent to be effective on offense, but many of the Kings' losses this past season came as a result of their inability to string together stops. Devin Carter is a two-way guard who can play with or without the ball in his hands offensively. Many teams are putting him at the top of the list as one of the best perimeter defenders in this class. His length also makes the 22-year-old a guard who could wind up defending multiple positions. Early on in his career, Carter is going to be a 3-and-D combo guard who would really be a solid rotational player for a team like Sacramento.

14. Portland Trail Blazers – SF/PF Tidjane Salaun – France (Cholet Basket – LNB)

The Trail Blazers are rebuilding. Although there is hope from their front office that Grant and Brogdon will be able to help turn things around rather quickly, the Blazers lack the overall talent to be a threat in the Western Conference. An emphasis needs to be put on building for the future, which is why Tidjane Salaun, another French prospect, is an intriguing option for the Blazers at the end of the lottery. Salaun is a 6'10” forward who is still very young and very raw in terms of what he can be. Teams are focused on what he has achieved defensively overseas, as Salaun has shown flashes of his abilities to be a terrific on-ball defender. He will need to improve his lateral quickness at the next level in order to become a key defensive option.

The fact of the matter is that the Blazers have enough guards. It is time for them to start adding depth on the wing and in their frontcourt. Already having Clingan from earlier, Salaun could be a worthy investment with this No. 14 pick. In time, he could become an all-around contributor out on the wing who will cause headaches for a lot of teams due to his ability to disrupt passing lanes and force turnovers. It is possible the Blazers could look to move down from this spot if they are not in love with Salaun or another player who is on the verge of falling out of the lottery.

15. Miami Heat – PG Jared McCain – Duke

Will the Miami Heat look to trade Jimmy Butler or Tyler Herro? Pat Riley appears to be open for business and willing to give an ear to what other executives around the league have to say to him about his players. Still, the Heat are in a championship position in the Eastern Conference when fully healthy. The one weakness this team has lies in their backcourt, with Terry Rozier not being healthy and Herro dealing with inconsistencies as the team's lead guard. That is where a player like Jarred McCain could come in handy.

The Heat are always wildcards when it comes to the NBA Draft. There is always the possibility of them going after another wing who could possibly fill Caleb Martin's role should he eventually depart South Beach, but McCain can play immediately as a facilitator. The 20-year-old is just a super smart and sound player who thrives in the spotlight. Miami needs a player like this who is confident enough to lead their backcourt. The pick-and-roll game is where McCain can do a lot of damage, which makes him an intriguing name in sets with Bam Adebayo. He is also capable of knocking down multiple triples in a game.

It seems like McCain, Carter, and Collier are all options for the Heat in this spot.

16. Philadelphia 76ers – SF/PF Tristan Da Silva – Colorado

There is a growing belief that the Philadelphia 76ers are going to be moving this draft pick in order to add more established talents to their roster around Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey, league sources said. The urgency to win right now is growing in Philadelphia. Should they not turn things around quickly and prove to be a championship organization, Embiid will ultimately ask for a trade. That is why this organization needs to land a huge name like Paul George or someone else during the offseason. The No. 16 pick could certainly be in play as a result.

If they do hold onto the pick, the Sixers will have the option of adding frontcourt depth or versatile options on the wing. Tristan Da Silva fits the description of being a utility player on the wing for the 76ers because he can play off the ball as a shooter, while also operating as a guard for his team that can bring the ball up the floor and set his teammates up for scoring opportunities. At Colorado, he was the driving force behind his team's offense. When in doubt, Da Silva operated as a cooling presence for the Buffaloes on offense, hitting big shots from the perimeter when their offense fell apart.

Although he is not known for his athleticism, Da Silva closes out to his opponents on the perimeter really well defensively. He has great footwork and can rotate from one player to the next when being screened. The 76ers need players like this that they can bring into games off the bench. Not to mention, Nick Nurse would be pleased with a hard-working role player like Da Silva.

17. Los Angeles Lakers – PF/C Kyle Filipowski – Duke

The New Orleans Pelicans own the right to acquire this pick from the Los Angeles Lakers, but it is likely they will defer until 2025. This gives the Lakers the chance to trade the No. 17 pick, another scenario many around the league believe will happen. In the event that the Lakers do make a selection here, Kyle Filipkowski will certainly be on their draft board. Anthony Davis needs help in the frontcourt, and Los Angeles needs to find options who can play next to Davis in order to preserve the star. Filipkowski returned to Duke after undergoing hip surgery, and he proved to be the ideal stretch big man for NBA teams to consider.

Despite shooting just 34.8 percent from beyond the arc, Filipowski's jumper is smooth and NBA-ready. Rebounding is not a problem for the Duke product, and he has turned himself into a really solid passing big man as well. Perhaps he doesn't possess that “it” factor other players in the draft do, but Filipowski can play immediately and be a serviceable bench talent for a team like the Lakers. His ability to play from the perimeter is what makes him attractive for the Lakers.

18. Orlando Magic – SG Ja'Kobe Walter – Baylor

Buy stock in the Orlando Magic now. Head coach Jamahl Mosley had his young team playing at a very high level this season, making their future extremely bright. Although they lost in the first round of the playoffs, the Magic have suddenly become a team that can make a lot of noise in free agency and the 2024 NBA Draft this offseason. Their one glaring need is offensive help on the perimeter, and Ja'Kobe Walter can certainly help them here.

His 34.1 three-point shooting percentage during his freshman season at Baylor doesn't give him enough recognition, as Walter enters the draft as one of the better shooting threats. Catch-and-shoot threes are where Walter tends to thrive the most, especially when he is able to run from corner to corner on offense. Walter can create plays for himself at the shooting guard position, and he has a chance to turn into a really polished defender in a system like Orlando's. This would be a steal for the Magic in this spot if Walter somehow falls out of the lottery.

19. Toronto Raptors – SF/PF Bobi Klintman – Sweden (Cairns Taipans – NBL)

Masai Ujiri and the Toronto Raptors are always searching for ways to improve their immediate outlook. That is why they went and got Kawhi Leonard in 2019. However, this organization is rebuilding, and it is highly unlikely that they will be able to trade their way to the top of the league again. The obvious route for this team is to continue finding high-potential players who can make an impact on both ends of the floor, similar to Scottie Barnes. Bobi Klintman is the picture-perfect player for Toronto to target, given his length and versatility at either forward spot.

After declaring for the 2023 NBA Draft, Klintman withdrew his name and decided to work on his craft in Australia's NBL. This was a terrific decision, as Klintman evolved into a better three-point shooter and versatile defender who can realistically guard any position on the court. Klintman's overall impact on the game doesn't always show up in his stats, as he really made his mark as a defender and offensive player who can easily create space for himself and others by cutting to the rim, given his explosiveness and athleticism. The Raptors have time to spend developing their players, making Klintman an attractive name in this spot.

20. Cleveland Cavaliers – PF Tyler Smith – G League Ignite

Tyler Smith has a chance to be the biggest riser throughout the pre-draft process. The 19-year-old forward from the G League Ignite is nothing more than a prospect with potential. Nobody should really expect him to come into the league and make a difference from Day 1, as he will likely spend a vast majority of his rookie season fine-tuning his craft in the G League. Still, he is an appealing 6'11” power forward who shot 36.4 percent from three-point range. He is a true pick-and-pop threat from the perimeter that could become an excellent secondary defender in the frontcourt next to Evan Mobley.

Where the Cleveland Cavaliers go from here depends on what happens with their series against the Boston Celtics. Assuming they lose, there will be questions about not only Donovan Mitchell's future but that of Jarrett Allen's as well. Allen has been a hot topic of discussion in trade rumors dating back to before the 2023-24 season began. He is by no means Kevin Love, but Smith kind of fits that mold of a stretch power forward who could wind up being a focal point for the Cavs offense. With room to grow, Smith is certainly a high-upside pick in this spot.

21. New Orleans Pelicans – C Yves Missi – Baylor

Brandon Ingram has suddenly become the best star coming up in trade rumors ahead of the 2024 NBA Draft. That is why it is hard to project what the New Orleans Pelicans are going to do in NBA mock drafts. It seems like Valanciunas' time with the Pelicans has come to an end as the big man enters unrestricted free agency, with the team likely heading in a new direction. Regardless of what happens with Ingram and the Pelicans in trade talks, New Orleans is going to need to address their frontcourt.

Yves Missi is a traditional, lengthy big man who thrives in pick-and-roll sets and can be a force defensively as a rim protector. The Pelicans could use a young center with a 7'6″ wingspan to help command the paint, an area in which they have lacked defensive awareness. While he still needs to grow into a complete product, Missi is explosive enough to play alongside Zion Williamson.

One interesting scenario we could see play out here is the Pelicans pursuing Dejounte Murray and Clint Capela from the Hawks. The Pelicans have held interest in Murray previously, and Capela could come in and fill Valanciunas's role in the final year of his contract. There really isn't a clear-cut choice here at No. 21 overall for New Orleans. At the same time, getting both Murray and Capela would result in the Pelicans likely having to part ways with Larry Nance Jr., a player they have a lot of faith in as a locker room leader and veteran presence in the frontcourt off the bench. Expect movement and a slight roster rehaul in New Orleans this offseason.

22. Phoenix Suns – PG Tyler Kolek – Marquette

If Missi falls to this spot, the Phoenix Suns could be a realistic landing spot for the Baylor big man. They could also look to target a wing, seeing as they will be filling out their roster around Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, and Bradley Beal with athletic, versatile players. While all of this is true, so is the fact that the Suns need a true point guard that can allow Booker, Durant, and Beal to thrive as the scorers they are instead of having to be responsible for primary facilitating duties. Tyler Kolek may just be the most sound point guard in this draft class regarding his playmaking skills.

Kolek has the ability to be a lead point guard for any team in the league, especially teams that have solidified stars that he can get the ball to and make their lives easier. He is great in pick-and-roll situations, and the 23-year-old would be best for a team looking to win right now rather than develop for the future. Think of Kolek as a player with a similar build and mindset as TJ McConnell, only he is better than the Indiana Pacers guard as a shooter. The Suns have long held interest in McConnell, which is why Kolek should stand out to them.

The Suns want and need to put an emphasis on winning right now. That is why going after a project late in the first round wouldn't make a whole lot of sense. Kolek fits a clear need this franchise has, and he would be a very safe pick for Phoenix.

23. Milwaukee Bucks – SG/SF Kevin McCullar Jr. – Kansas

The Milwaukee Bucks, like the Suns, are in a position where winning right now with the stars that they have is essential. Another first-round exit from the postseason doesn't sit well with management, nor does it sit well with Giannis Antetokounmpo. Now 29 years old, Giannis needs to begin thinking about his future and where he can truly cement his legacy in the league. Will this be in Milwaukee? The Bucks could benefit from adding two-way wings who already carry a solid amount of experience with them. Kevin McCullar Jr. is a 23-year-old senior from Kansas who can do a little bit of everything on the court, especially next to stars like Giannis and Damian Lillard.

McCullar missed the late portion of the college season for Kansas due to a mysterious knee injury. This could potentially result in him slipping to the early second-round portion of the 2024 NBA Draft depending on how he looks in pre-draft workouts. Still, he is great when he gets going in transition, especially when he is able to display his athleticism and throw the ball down. Defensively, McCullar plays well on or off of the ball, given his length and lateral quickness. If he is healthy, McCullar can play right away as a rotational player in this league, with scoring upside as a shooter from the perimeter.

24. New York Knicks – SF Ryan Dunn – Virginia

Both the No. 24 and the No. 25 picks that the New York Knicks own could be packaged together for a win-now type of talent. Tom Thibodeau doesn't run with a deep bench, and it is hard to imagine that he would be inclined to give significant minutes to a rookie that was taken at the end of the first round. Then again, Ryan Dunn would be a decent fit in New York because of his defensive background at Virginia. The questions for Dunn revolve around whether he can be an impactful three-point shooter, a trait he would need to develop if he were to be a factor for the Knicks.

Dunn would provide the Knicks with more defensive versatility, especially on the wing. The Virginia product is one of the best all-around defenders in this draft class, and he possesses a long wingspan that is utilized when Dunn is a primary on-ball defender out on the wing. Offensively, Dunn is explosive and can get to the rim quickly against those who look to press him. Learning from guys like Donte DiVincenzo and Josh Hart, Dunn could instantly become a favorite of Thibodeau's, much like how Miles McBride has earned his stripes recently.

25. New York Knicks – C Kel'El Ware – Oregon

While the Knicks could go after a guard in this year's draft, they do not necessarily need one with McBride stepping up. However, the Knicks will need to add some help in their frontcourt with Julius Randle coming off of shoulder surgery and Isaiah Hartenstein entering free agency. Kel'El Ware has been a sneaky riser on draft boards in recent weeks because of his length and shooting abilities. Ware is a strong one-on-one player who can be a great defensive anchor for a team given his 7'7″ wingspan.

Averaging 15.9 points, 9.9 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game while shooting 42.5 percent from three-point range is impressive for a big man at the college level. It will take time to adjust to a new system like the one the Knicks run, but with the right level of conditioning, Ware could turn into an instant source of production off the bench for the Knicks. This would be a strong value pick with the No. 25 overall selection. At the same time, it would be a little surprising to see the Knicks take two rookies back-to-back. Expect a trade in this area of the 2024 NBA Draft.

26. Washington Wizards – PG Carlton Carrington – Pittsburgh

The future of the Wizards depends on what they do with the Nos. 2 and 26 picks this year. Risacher could potentially be a stud next to Bilal Coulibaly, and Carlton Carrington could be the future of their backcourt. Carrington is one of the best scoring guards in this year's draft class, and he is not afraid to let the ball fly from anywhere on the court. Not to mention, his isolation game and shooting stroke are NBA-ready. .

Whether or not his decision-making holds him back from being a first-round pick is something executives will find out more about during the pre-draft process. The key thing with Carrington is that he needs time to refine his offensive game and become comfortable playing at whatever speed is needed. The Wizards have time to spend developing a young guard like Carrington.

What the Wizards decide to do, especially at the top of the draft, will be very telling as to what we should expect to see regarding Tyus Jones, who is a free agent, and Kyle Kuzma. Washington would like to keep Jones around, but Kuzma is a potential trade candidate after the Wizards entertained offers for him leading up to the trade deadline this season. Should the Wizards draft a prospect like Matas Buzelis or Risacher earlier on, it could signal a potential trade in the works involving Kuzma. Just keep an eye on the former champion's status with Washington.

27. Minnesota Timberwolves – SG/SF Johnny Furphy – Kansas

Tim Connelly has always been excellent when it comes to drafting for the future. The problem is that Connelly may not be with the Minnesota Timberwolves come time for the 2024 NBA Draft should he leave for a lucrative offer from the Detroit Pistons to become their figure head in the front office. Regardless, the Timberwolves have a need for more wing talent. There are still a lot of unknowns surrounding Johnny Furphy, but he projects to be a solid three-point shooting weapon.

The Timberwolves simply need players who are capable of scoring from the perimeter and can spread the floor alongside Anthony Edwards. That is why Furphy, who could go as high as 18th to the Magic, is an interesting prospect in this spot. Due to the developments he still needs to make, it is possible that Furphy returns to Kansas in order to potentially turn himself into a lottery pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. If he were to end up with Minnesota, Furphy could be an energetic perimeter player who can shoot threes and crash the glass.

28. Denver Nuggets – SG/SF Jaylon Tyson – California

No organization finds experienced college players in the NBA Draft that can contribute right away like the Denver Nuggets. Christian Braun is an excellent example of this, and Jaylon Tyson would draw a lot of consideration from the Nuggets if he were on the board in this spot. Tyson can shoot, he can create opportunities off the dribble, and most importantly, he is a strong-minded wing that isn't afraid of the moment.

The good thing about going to the Nuggets is that Tyson would have more time to work on his strength and playmaking abilities. He checks off all the boxes right now for being a player who can become an all-around offensive weapon that primarily plays off the ball. Where Tyson ends up in the 2024 NBA Draft will depend on how he looks in the scrimmage portion of the NBA Draft Combine. It is possible that he works his way into the Top 20, similar to what happened with Jalen Williams a few years ago when he was taken by the Thunder after dominating the scrimmages.

29. Utah Jazz – PF Izan Almansa – G League Ignite

Already drafting Ron Holland, the Jazz can take a swing at another high-upside pick from the G League Ignite with Izan Almansa. Originally viewed as a lottery pick when he enlisted with the Ignite, Almansa has slipped slightly due to an underwhelming season. The 6'10” forward is only 18 years old and still has room to grow as a scoring weapon. Still, he has great footwork in the low post and can be tough to stop from crashing the glass on either end of the court.

The Jazz would be getting a potential lottery pick in this spot, but Almansa would definitely need time to grow. The Jazz, who have invested a lot in youthful talents through the last few drafts, would be smart to go after a high-potential player like Almansa in this spot. Expect Utah to shop this pick at the end of the first round in order to try and add future value.

30. Boston Celtics – SG Kyshawn George – Miami (FL)

The expectation surrounding their fan base is that the Boston Celtics will win their 18th championship in team history this year. Whether or not they can achieve this feat, Boston's only focus in the draft should be finding ways to continue building depth. The Celtics can go with the mindset of drafting the best player available in this spot, and freshman guard Kyshawn George certainly presents some upside moving forward.

George is a prospect many teams are interested in learning more about, given his perimeter-oriented focus on offense. As a lengthy shooting guard, George has the potential to make an impact defensively with the right team. While he could return to Miami, George has been projected to go anywhere from the late lottery to the early second round in NBA mock drafts. A solid performance at the combine and in pre-draft workouts will likely result in a promise from a team late in the first round, which would be good enough for George to remain in the draft.

31. Toronto Raptors – C Zach Edey – Purdue

32. Utah Jazz – PG Juan Nunez – Spain (Ratiopharm Ulm – Bundesliga)

Juan Nunez is a really solid playmaker who can be a serviceable backup point guard in the NBA. Perhaps he could be a valuable international player for the Jazz to hold onto, especially if they look to move Clarkson or Sexton at some point and open up a spot in their backcourt.

33. Milwaukee Bucks – PF DaRon Holmes II – Dayton

There is a lot to like about DaRon Holmes II, especially for a team like the Bucks, with Brook Lopez not getting any younger. Holmes shares some similarities with Bobby Portis in the sense that they can both be pick-and-op big men. The Bucks would be getting great value in this spot for a three-point shooting threat that can help protect the rim on defense.

34. Portland Trail Blazers – SG/SF Justin Edwards – Kentucky

Justin Edwards is a wildcard in this year's draft since he didn't really stand out during his freshman season at Kentucky despite being their top-rated prospect. A team like the Blazers, who have time to develop an explosive wing, can benefit from spending time developing a 20-year-old with a strong base to become a factor offensively.

35. San Antonio Spurs – PF/C Ulrich Chomche – Cameroon (Basketball Africa League)

Ulrich Chomche is rising up the draft boards. Standing 6'11” with a 7'4″ wingspan, Chomche is a prospect many teams want more information about because he can be an immediate stretch big man with three-point potential. At 18 years old, he is one of the youngest players in this draft and a player an organization like the Spurs could get the most out of.

36. Indiana Pacers – SF Harrison Ingram – UNC

Defense and rebounding are what the Indiana Pacers would be getting from Harrison Ingram. It is possible that Ingram could go late in the first round if a team believes in his shooting potential. Ingram can be a secondary playmaker and another strong rebounder that the Pacers pair with Aaron Nesmith on the wing.

37. Minnesota Timberwolves – C Oso Ighodaro – Marquette

Oso Ighodaro may be one of the best defensive big men in this draft class. The Timberwolves don't necessarily need another player in their frontcourt, but the team is going to be looking to cut costs. If they move Naz Reid, Jaden McDaniels, or someone else, Ighodaro could slide in and see minutes immediately, given his defensive-oriented approach.

38. New York Knicks – PG/SG Hunter Sallis – Wake Forest

After improving as a scorer, Hunter Sallis sees his draft stock in the 20-45 range. Sallis is a 2-guard who uses his size well to get past his defenders. Defensively, he is a combo guard who  has the ability to keep his opponents in front of him. This would be a good value pick for the Knicks in the second round.

39. Memphis Grizzlies – SG/SF Nikola Đurišić – Serbia (KK Mega Basket – ABA)

The Grizzlies need players that they can invest in for the future. Nikola Durisic has shown the potential for being a reliable shooting weapon, and he can help facilitate an offense from the wing. Memphis is going to be looking for players with two-way potential and shooting skills on the perimeter in the draft this year.

40. Portland Trail Blazers – SG Baylor Scheierman – Creighton 

Baylor Scheierman is going to be one of the better three-point shooters available in the second round of the 2024 NBA Draft. Portland could benefit from adding a player like him to their roster, especially since they ranked dead-last in perimeter shooting this past year.

41. Philadelphia 76ers – SG Terrence Shannon Jr. – Illinois

More information on Shannon's trial will be provided throughout the pre-draft process. 

42. Charlotte Hornets – SF Jalen Bridges – Baylor

Loading up on wings is not a bad idea for the Charlotte Hornets, especially experienced ones like Jalen Bridges. At Baylor, Bridges displayed his brilliance as an on-ball defender who is very smart with his decision-making. Offensively, Bridges shot 41.2 percent from deep during his senior season.

43. Miami Heat – SF Dillon Jones – Weber State

Think of Dillon Jones as a player the Heat can mold into their next Caleb Martin. He has the size and stature to be a tough rebounder, and Jones is strong with the ball in his hands. Jones possesses a 6'11” wingspan that will be a nice commodity for defensive-oriented teams like the Heat.

44. Houston Rockets – SG Cam Christie – Minnesota

The brother of Lakers guard Max Christie, Cam Christie, is starting to draw more attention during the pre-draft process as a result of his size on the wing. After grabbing Dillingham, the Rockets would solidify the back-end of their roster with a scoring weapon like Christie, who could develop into a key playmaker in time.

45. Sacramento Kings – SG Jamir Watkins – Florida State

Jamir Watkins is a versatile wing that tends to play off the ball as a crafty guard. He can shoot from the perimeter, but Watkins can really get going in pick-and-roll situations that allow him to get to the rim. There is definitely potential for Watkins to become a great two-way player.

46. Los Angeles Clippers – C Adem Bona – UCLA

The Los Angeles Clippers don't have a first-round pick this year, and they could really use some more depth behind Ivica Zubac. Adam Bona is a strong big man who tends to play well in pick-and-roll sets, as well as in the paint as a rebounder on both sides of the court. There isn't much reason to believe that Bona can't make a difference defensively early on in his career.

47. Orlando Magic – Alex Karaban – UConn

48. San Antonio Spurs – SG Payton Sandfort – Iowa

Payton Sanfort is one of the better perimeter shooters in this draft class. Whether it is coming off screens, dribble handoffs, or simply moving without the ball, Sandfort can do a lot of damage on the perimeter. Already adding versatile, high-potential players earlier, the Spurs should elect to target an experienced scorer in the second round.

49. Indiana Pacers – PG/SG Ajay Mitchell – UC Santa Barbara

The Pacers own three second-round picks. It is hard to imagine they will utilize all of them. Ajay Mitchell is a bigger combo guard who has a high understanding of the game. He knows when to give the ball up, and he uses pick-and-roll sets efficiently to keep defenders behind him. Three-point shooting will be the key to Mitchell unlocking his full potential on offense.

50. Indiana Pacers – SG Pacôme Dadiet – France (Ratiopharm Ulm – Bundesliga)

Pacome Dadiet is another intriguing prospect many teams are interested in getting a closer look at during the NBA Draft Combine. Dadiet already possesses a strong shooting form, and he tends to be a shooting guard who wants the ball in his hands more often than not. A big wing with a long wingspan, don't be shocked if Dadiet soars up draft boards.

51. Washington Wizards – SG Melvin Ajinca – France (Saint-Quentin – LNB)

The Wizards need more shooting weapons on the perimeter, and Melvin Ajinca can provide this. Ajinca is another lengthy French wing who has a strong feel for where to position himself beyond the three-point line. Teams will view him as a 3-and-D prospect in the second round of the draft. He could go as early as the first pick of the second round.

52. Golden State Warriors – SG Pelle Larsson – Arizona

Pelle Larsson is the picture-perfect second-round guy for the Golden State Warriors. After shooting 42.6 percent from deep at Arizona this past season, Larsson is the type of experienced college player that could impact a winning organization right away by coming off the bench and knocking down threes off of screens. No team in the league screens for their three-point shooters more than the Warriors, which is why they would be lucky to have a player like Larsson fall to them.

53. Detroit Pistons – PF Trevon Brazile – Arkansas

Beefing up their frontcourt wouldn't be a bad idea for the Pistons at this point in the draft. Trevon Brazile is a lengthy power forward that is not only a lob threat in pick-and-roll sets, but he has turned into a three-point shooter that teams will need to respect. A torn ACL at the end of his sophomore season has resulted in Brazile's stock dropping.

54. Boston Celtics – SG/SF Jaylen Wells – Washington State

The Celtics found a lot of success when they drafted a lengthy, athletic wing named Jaylen Brown years ago. Jaylen Wells is by no means Brown, but he is a strong shooter on the wing who uses his athleticism to his advantage. The Washington State product has a smooth looking jump shot, making him a possible plug-and-play guy early in his career.

55. Los Angeles Lakers – PG Bronny James – USC

56. Denver Nuggets – PG KJ Simpson – Colorado

Ending up with Jaylon Tyson and KJ Simpson would be a perfect draft for the Nuggets. Simpson is another hard-working guard who is a confident three-point shooter. He is also a hard-nosed defender who can guard multiple positions despite being slightly undersized. This would be a strong value pick for the Nuggets as they look to find depth behind Jamal Murray.

57 Memphis Grizzlies – PG/SG Trey Alexander – Creighton

Trey Alexander is definitely a prospect worthy of consideration for a late first-round pick, but he i not your average fast-paced guard. Still, he is able to get to his shots and be a strong scorer, especially in the mid-range area. The Grizzlies need at least one more guard in their backcourt behind Ja Morant.

58. Dallas Mavericks – PG Mark Sears – Alabama

Mark Sears has drawn a lot of comparisons to Jalen Brunson, given his size and scoring abilities coming off of screens. Well, the Dallas Mavericks once had Brunson, and they could use another serviceable, experienced guard. Dallas needs someone like Sears who can stabilize the second unit with his passing skills.

*NOTE: The Philadelphia 76ers (49) and Phoenix Suns (58) forfeited their second-round picks this year due to violating the league's tampering rules.

To see Brett Siegel’s FULL 2024 NBA Mock Draft 1.0, click here.

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