2024 NBA Mock Draft 4.0: Hawks eyeing Donovan Clingan, Zaccharie Risacher

We have officially reached draft week. The 2024 NBA Draft will begin on Wednesday, June 26, with the Atlanta Hawks facing a decision that will not only impact their organization but the rest of how this year's draft will play out. For the first time in many years, there is no clear-cut name sitting at the top of NBA Draft boards. As a result, NBA mock drafts are all over the place.

Many teams around the league anticipate the Hawks selecting Zaccharie Risacher, a 6'10” French wing who possesses the potential to be an impactful two-way talent. Then there are other teams that believe Donovan Clingan, a two-time national champion at UConn, is the player who will go first overall after an impressive workout with the Hawks. Although Alex Sarr was long viewed as the early favorite to be the first overall selection after Atlanta was awarded the first pick, the Hawks haven't hosted the French big man for a workout. In fact, there are rumors spreading that Sarr and his camp would prefer not to be the first pick for situational reasons.

Perhaps this could just be a smokescreen and the Hawks actually have Sarr at the top of their draft board. Ahead of the 2022 NBA Draft, the Magic and executive Jeff Weltman did a fantastic job at hiding the fact they were taking Paolo Banchero first overall. Orlando hosted both Jabari Smith Jr. and Chet Holmgren for workouts that year, yet Banchero consistently pushed back his workouts with the Magic, leading many to believe Smith was going to be the team's choice. Ultimately, the Magic went with Banchero, setting the stage for a draft that really took shape due to certain dominoes falling in place.

That is how the 2024 NBA Draft could play out. This is not to say the Hawks will actually be taking Sarr in what would be one of the biggest smokescreens in recent draft history, but what they decide to do impacts the rest of the NBA Draft. Of course, there is more to this year's draft than just the Hawks at the very top.

Plenty of teams are already discussing their options in terms of trades. The Houston Rockets, San Antonio Spurs, Detroit Pistons, Charlotte Hornets, Portland Trail Blazers, and Memphis Grizzlies are all teams with top-10 picks that have outlined certain scenarios in which they could move up or down in the NBA Draft. The talk around the league revolves around the Spurs, Blazers, Wizards, and New York Knicks — four teams with two first-round picks. Whether or not any of these four teams move around, especially the Spurs and Blazers in the lottery, could be very telling as to which players will rise and fall on draft night.

Despite not being as top-heavy as previous years, the 2024 NBA Draft will bring plenty of dynamic, athletic talents into the league. Everything starts with the Hawks at No. 1 overall, a decision that may just lead to another organization grabbing their new franchise-altering talent.

After previously assembling his 2024 NBA Draft Big Board 4.0 and Mock Draft 3.0, ClutchPoints' NBA insider Brett Siegel has updated his mock draft, which is filled with projections and notes for all 58 picks based on intel from scouts, agents, and executives from around the league.

1. Atlanta Hawks – C Donovan Clingan – UConn

French standouts Zaccharie Risacher and Alex Sarr can each make very compelling cases for being the first pick in this year's NBA Draft. Whereas Risacher brings the two-way potential on the wing, Sarr brings toughness and immediate defensive abilities to the frontcourt.

However, Donovan Clingan is a two-way player at the center position, giving the Hawks everything they have been searching for in a new big man to take over for Clint Capela, whom the organization is interested in moving this offseason. Clingan may just be more NBA-ready than both Risacher and Sarr due to his back-to-back title runs at UConn, and the Hawks hold the 20-year-old in high regard, league sources told ClutchPoints.

Although general manager Landry Fields recently claimed that the team is planning to make a selection with this first overall pick, the Hawks are still evaluating all of their options leading up to Wednesday's draft. Recently, the Spurs have been a team showing interest in Atlanta's first overall pick, according to NBA insider Marc Stein. Assuming the Hawks truly want Clingan, he could realistically be available for them if Atlanta were to trade their first pick to the Spurs for a package that included San Antonio's fourth overall selection.

Then again, there is a growing belief that the Hawks like Clingan much better than anyone else available at the top of the NBA Draft, so why not lock in their selection right away instead of running the risk of losing the UConn big man? Various teams, such as the Grizzlies and Trail Blazers, continue to show strong interest in possibly moving up to select Clingan, which is why the Hawks claiming him first overall is the safest move. Whether or not the Hawks keep this first overall pick is predicated on whether they believe either Clingan or Risacher can positively change the trajectory of their franchise.

2. Washington Wizards – PF/C Alex Sarr – France (Perth Wildcats – NBL)

The Wizards have one goal right now, sources said, and that is to add Alex Sarr as the newest face of their franchise. After declining to work out for the Hawks, all indications just a couple of days before the draft point in the direction of Sarr being available in this spot. Of course, that all depends on whether a team makes a blockbuster trade with the Hawks to move up and select Sarr.

If there is any team in the league that has time on their side when it comes to development, it is the Wizards. Newly appointed head coach Brian Keefe has the full belief of Washington's front office when it comes to beginning a new era of Wizards basketball, and Sarr would be the ideal fit alongside 2023 first-round pick Bilal Coulibaly, given both players' length and defensive attributes. The best part about Sarr going to the Wizards would be his ability to play the power forward position.

Washington has options this offseason, as picking Sarr second overall will immediately draw attention to the franchise showing a willingness to discuss a trade involving Kyle Kuzma this offseason. Still, the Wizards have maintained a high asking price for Kuzma, which existed ahead of the trade deadline as well. The Wizards are actively showing interest in moving up from No. 26 overall, as well as accumulating future draft picks during the summer. Never say never, but it would be shocking if the Wizards passed on the opportunity to draft Sarr at this point.

3. Houston Rockets – PG/SG Reed Sheppard – Kentucky

Many teams around the league have been in contact with the Rockets about a possible trade involving this third overall pick. Although the Rockets have been receptive to offers coming their way in search of more win-now talents for their roster, the organization remains confident they will be able to add an impactful player to their young core in this spot. Given his shooting and scoring abilities as a combo guard, Reed Sheppard is the player on Houston's radar.

Sheppard has long been linked to the Rockets, a team that ranked 23rd in three-point shooting this past season. Despite drafting Amen Thompson as a combo guard last summer and wanting to find ways to add more established talents, Sheppard brings the toughness and grit that would please head coach Ime Udoka. The best part about the Kentucky product's game is he could easily evolve into a playmaking point guard who can take over Fred VanVleet's spot in a matter of years.

If Clingan is still on the board in this position, the Rockets will have various teams inquire about the availability of this third pick. Assuming general manager Rafael Stone holds onto this selection, Sheppard should be the Rockets' choice as another scoring weapon in their backcourt. Houston is a team primed for immediate growth during the 2024-25 season.

4. San Antonio Spurs – SF Zaccharie Risacher – France (JL Bourg – LNB)

The dream scenario for the Spurs on draft night would be Risacher falling to them with this fourth overall pick. Risacher, who many teams have labeled as the best talent in this year's draft, would fill an immediate need the Spurs have on the wing next to Victor Wembanyama. Better yet, the French forward would join his fellow countryman in what would likely become the best youthful duo in the NBA. It would be shocking if Risacher fell past the Spurs with this fourth pick, assuming he was not taken first by the Hawks.

San Antonio simply needs size and potential on their roster around Wembanyama. Devin Vassell continues to be a player the organization values. On the flip side, Keldon Johnson took a major step back on the wing with the Spurs during the 2023-24 season. Risacher not only presents long-term potential as a scorer on the wing, but the 19-year-old would help San Antonio create a strong defensive presence with Wemby and Jeremy Sochan in their frontcourt.

The only way the Spurs don't make a selection with this fourth pick is if they end up trading it in order to move up and select either Risacher or Sarr first overall. Stephon Castle will be the obvious choice to bolster the backcourt should Risacher be unavailable in this spot.

5. Detroit Pistons – SF Matas Buzelis – G League Ignite

Matas Buzelis has conducted pre-draft workouts and interviews with virtually every team inside the top five. His size and shooting abilities make him a forward who can step in and be an offensive factor right away. The fact he is only 19 years old makes Buzelis the ideal fit for the Pistons and their new head of basketball operations, Trajan Langdon. Although his numbers with the G League Ignite may not show it, Buzelis is a strong shooting presence who can score from virtually anywhere on the court.

Ahead of the 2024 NBA Draft, the Pistons are being viewed very much as a wild card due to their unpredictability. This is a franchise that wants to change quickly, and they believe Langdon will be the answer to turning around their recent mishaps. With Cade Cunningham, whom the organization views as an All-Star-quality talent, and Jaden Ivey in their backcourt, it would be unwise for the Pistons to waste the fifth overall pick on another guard. The idea of pursuing frontcourt help wouldn't make a ton of sense either unless Detroit were to move on from Jalen Duren or Isaiah Stewart in the offseason.

Even with Buzelis being the ideal fit in this spot, rival teams have still reached out to inquire about whether the Pistons are open to the idea of moving back, sources said. While Langdon and the Pistons' front office could take this opportunity to secure future assets, passing up on Buzelis would be awfully hard for them to do.

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

All scenarios are on the table for the Hornets with this pick. In addition to having interest in Castle, Sheppard and Dalton Knecht are two other players the Hornets have interest in with the sixth overall pick. Some have even suggested the Hornets would be open to selecting Clingan if he fell to them in this spot due to Portland's interest in the UConn big man, as well as Clingan being the best player available in this spot who could provide an immediate boost on defense and in pick-and-roll sets with LaMelo Ball.

A variety of teams inside the top 10 have an interest in Castle, the Hornets included. Next to Ball, Castle would thrive as a secondary playmaker who can also provide a strong defensive presence on the backcourt. The problem some Hornets fans may have a hard time with if their team was to take Castle is the fact that things didn't end pretty with James Bouknight, Charlotte's 11th overall selection in 2021 out of UConn. At the same time, Kemba Walker is probably the best player in team history, so maybe the third time's the charm for the Hornets in terms of drafting another Connecticut guard!

Forming a new trio of Castle, Ball, and Brandon Miller would instantly give new head coach Charles Lee the tools he needs to immediately help this franchise grow.

7. Portland Trail Blazers – SG/SF Dalton Knecht – Tennessee

The general belief around the league is Knecht will be selected anywhere from sixth to ninth this year's draft. Through the years, the Blazers have long targeted young, high-potential players such as Scoot Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe. However, there is a sense of urgency growing in Portland, and the higher-ups of the franchise are not wanting to see their team go through a long rebuilding process. Knecht possesses the shooting and offensive abilities to be a plug-and-play talent immediately during his rookie season.

Next to Anfernee Simons and Henderson, Knecht would present the Blazers with the opportunity to rise from the bottom of the league in perimeter shooting. His experience at Tennessee and the fact he is 23 years old put Knecht on the same timeline as the young core of Portland's roster.

The Blazers, sources said, have flirted with the idea of offering both of their lottery selections in order to move up in the NBA Draft. In doing so, Portland would be targeting Clingan to become the future of their frontcourt, leading to questions about how long the Blazers will be holding onto both Deandre Ayton and Robert Williams III.

8. San Antonio Spurs – SF/PF Tidjane Salaun – France (Cholet Basket – LNB)

The Spurs hold high interest in French forward Tidjane Salaun, sources said. Nikola Topic, Devin Carter, Rob Dillingham, and Dalton Knecht are other players who are appealing to the Spurs in this spot. Still 18 years old and not turning 19 until August, Salaun finds himself as one of the youngest players in the 2024 NBA Draft. At the same time, Salaun may just possess the most potential to turn into an everyday starter. Although he is still very raw, Salaun would provide an immediate boost in either forward position because of his length and defensive awareness.

If San Antonio is somehow able to land Risacher with the fourth overall pick, many would expect them to target a guard with the eighth pick. However, the Spurs' dream scenario on draft night would be to add both Risacher and Salaun alongside Wembanyama. In addition to the length the Spurs would possess by adding Risacher and Salaun, they would also give Wembanyama two fellow Frenchmen to play with. It is no secret to anyone that Salaun has fans inside San Antonio's front office.

Selecting a guard is not a given in this spot for the Spurs. Both Topic and Dillingham may be available past this eighth overall pick, giving San Antonio the capability to potentially trade back up by utilizing the No. 35 and 48 second-round picks, as well as future draft picks. The Grizzlies, Jazz, and Thunder may all be interested in gaining future capital for their picks shortly after this eighth selection, meaning the Spurs could end up with a haul of talent on draft night. Regardless of whether they make any trades, expect general manager Brian Wright and Gregg Popovich to be very busy on the phone during the NBA Draft.

9. Memphis Grizzlies – SF Cody Williams – Colorado

Anything could happen with the Grizzlies' ninth overall selection. In addition to having interest in moving up to target Clingan, the Grizzlies are also evaluating options to potentially move down in the first round to gather future assets. General manager Zach Kleiman is always aggressive on draft night, which is why we should expect nothing less from Memphis yet again. Cody Williams is one of the most polarizing players in this year's draft, as his range is the widest out of lottery-projected players.

The Pistons have registered interest in Williams, as have the Trail Blazers and Thunder. Even though he has two-way potential on the wing, Williams is still a very raw talent who will need time to develop, especially as a three-point shooting weapon. Drafting Williams would be a high-upside selection by the Grizzlies, who could eventually turn into their starting small forward. Williams simply seems like the athletic, lengthy player with two-way potential that Kleiman and the Grizzlies always tend to target in the NBA Draft.

There have been whispers that Memphis will be interested in Zach Edey should they be unable to trade up for Clingan. As a result, Memphis could realistically move down a few spots to grab Edey, while also adding future value. The Jazz are another team that has a level of interest in Edey, as they have made Walker Kessler available in trade talks.

10. Utah Jazz – SG Ja'Kobe Walter – Baylor

The Jazz will have options with the 10th pick. With Keyonte George being the future of their backcourt, as well as Jordan Clarkson and Collin Sexton still on the roster, Utah may not have interest in creating a logjam with their guards. Ja'Kobe Walter is another player with a very wide range of teams showing interest in him. The best part about his fit with the Jazz is he's more of an off-the-ball guard who has the mold of a modern day 3-and-D type of player.

There is a wide range of players the Jazz can consider with this 10th overall selection, especially in terms of talents on the wing. Topic still being available makes for an interesting conversation, plus Ron Holland's slip draws more questions about whether he could be the guy Utah needs. Whatever the case may be, the Jazz have not hidden their intentions to target a star this offseason. If the right All-Star becomes available between now and the draft, the Jazz will be open to dealing this selection.

11. Chicago Bulls – PG/SG Devin Carter – Providence

The trade involving Alex Caruso and Josh Giddey between the Chicago Bulls and Oklahoma City Thunder has many around the league scratching their heads. While Giddey could be the facilitator and passer the Bulls need at the point guard position, they sacrificed a ton of value by letting Caruso go with no draft picks coming back in return. Ahead of the trade deadline, sources said, the Bulls were offered multiple first-round picks from rival teams for Caruso. Now, with the defensive-minded guard gone, this could be an excellent spot for the Bulls to replace his production with Devin Carter.

In addition to providing depth behind Giddey and Coby White, Carter could step into the role of being a defensive stopper on the perimeter for Chicago. Many teams have shown interest in Carter to this point, most notably the Spurs with the No. 4 and 8 selections. Holland and Dillingham will be in consideration for this pick as well, if they are still on the board.

The talk surrounding the Bulls is fixated on DeMar DeRozan and what the veteran All-Star is planning to do in free agency. Although early indications pointed in the direction of DeRozan returning to the Bulls on a new contract, the recent trade involving Caruso could lead the 34-year-old to seriously consider offers from other teams as an unrestricted free agent. DeRozan could ultimately become the best player available in free agency after the NBA Draft.

12. Oklahoma City Thunder – PG Nikola Topic – Serbia (Crvena zvezda – Serbia)

The Thunder find themselves in a position where they will have to wait and see what talents are still on the board. Salaun, Topic, and Holland would all make sense if they fell to the Thunder in this spot, but that may not occur. A team eyeing Edey, Dillingham, or McCain could realistically move up to this spot, giving executive Sam Presti more future assets and a chance to grab frontcourt help a little bit later on. Nonetheless, drafting Topic in this spot, should he fall out of the top 10, would be great value for this young Thunder team.

Topic has a partially torn ACL and may need to sit out the entirety of his rookie season in order to recover. However, Oklahoma City has time to wait for a player of his caliber due to the recent trade they made to acquire Caruso from the Bulls. The best part about landing Topic in this spot is he checks off all the boxes for what Giddey did in OKC the last few seasons. What sets Topic apart from Giddey is the Serbian guard is a better overall scorer and facilitator. He could be the perfect guard to pair with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander moving forward.

Many around the league are wondering if Presti and the Thunder have their eyes on a big man in this draft. It is possible they either look to move down or possibly acquire another first-round pick in order to address their frontcourt later on. DaRon Holmes II continues to be a name linked to Oklahoma City.

13. Sacramento Kings – PG Jared McCain – Duke

The Sacramento Kings are actively searching the trade market for a partner with the 13th overall pick, league sources said. At the same time, the Kings recently brought in Jared McCain for a pre-draft workout and meeting, according to Jason Anderson of The Sacramento Bee. Out of all the guards in this year's draft, McCain may just be the best shooter due to his confidence and range.

This is an interesting spot in the draft, as the Kings may also be interested in Holland, who has fallen out of the top 10 in this scenario. There is a sense of urgency in Sacramento to not only get back to the playoffs, but prove that their recent postseason appearance wasn't a fluke. The Kings want to surround De'Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis with players who can provide immediate production on offense. In addition to being Fox's new backup, McCain would provide excellent shooting depth alongside Malik Monk on the bench.

14. Portland Trail Blazers – SF Ron Holland – G League Ignite

Along with Knecht, the Blazers have held interest in Holland throughout the pre-draft process. Still only 18 years old, Holland presents a ton of upside for growth on the wing, and he could join a Blazers team in need of dynamic play from their shooting guards and small forwards. The best part about drafting Holland is Portland would have yet another athletic and versatile player they could have in lineups alongside Scoot Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe.

It will take time, but Holland is the best value pick in this spot and fills a need the Blazers have on the wing. Whereas Knecht is already a proven scorer on the wing, the G League Ignite product supplies the Blazers with another long-term building block they can spend time developing. The Blazers are interested in wings such as Holland, Knecht, Tristan da Silva, and Cody Williams in the lottery. Do not be shocked if Portland takes two wings. League sources say the Blazers also have a level of interest in Edey and could target him with the 14th pick.

15. Miami Heat – PG Rob Dillingham – Kentucky

Rob Dillingham is a candidate to fall out of the lottery due to his ankle injury, which limited his pre-draft workout availability. At the same time, teams do know what Dillingham is capable of doing offensively, which is why he is still drawing interest from the Spurs and Bulls. Between his ball handling and playmaking abilities, Dillingham would be the perfect guard for the Miami Heat to add in this draft next to Terry Rozier and Tyler Herro.

The best part about Dillingham's game is he tends to thrive in pick-and-roll situations where he can get to his spots and also attack the rim. With a lob threat like Bam Adebayo in Miami's frontcourt, the Kentucky guard would find a lot of success in Erik Spoelstra's system. Many around the league anticipate the Heat adding a young scorer to their roster should they hold onto this selection, a contrast to last summer when they selected a proven, versatile weapon in Jaime Jaquez Jr.

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

This 16th overall pick is being targeted by teams that are looking to move up in the first round of the NBA Draft. The Philadelphia 76ers could keep this selection, but the belief around the league is they will leverage this pick in attempts to land a more established talent to put next to Tyrese Maxey and Joel Embiid, a similar move they pulled off in 2022 when trading for De'Anthony Melton. Edey and Dillingham are two players rival teams will consider trading up for if they are available in this spot.

If the 76ers keep this pick, Tristan da Silva, Jared McCain, and Dillingham have been the three names most associated with the organization. While he may not be the flashiest player, da Silva checks off many boxes in terms of what he can do on the court. The 23-year-old is a win-now type of player who can bring the ball up the floor, shoot the three, and defend multiple positions. Da Silva would be a really solid role player in head coach Nick Nurse's system.

17. Los Angeles Lakers – C Zach Edey – Purdue

The expectation right now is the Los Angeles Lakers' 17th overall selection could be Edey's floor in this NBA Draft. Many teams, including some in the back end of the lottery, have real interest in Edey, which is why the Lakers will generate plenty of trade buzz if the two-time National Player of the Year is available in this spot. It is also possible that the Phoenix Suns could be interested in trading up with interest in Isaiah Collier, Tyler Kolek, and Ryan Dunn, but they are limited in terms of assets they could surrender. LA is focused on winning right now, hence their reasoning behind picking Edey.

Out of all the players available in this spot, Edey is the most experienced and can provide an immediate impact as a rebounder and rim protector next to Anthony Davis. Whether or not he has the motor to be a sustainable big man in the NBA is the question many scouts still have. It continues to look likely that the Lakers will be dealing this pick in order to add other assets. Do not be shocked if they look to package this selection in order to pursue a third key name next to Davis and LeBron James, who is expected to sign a new two-year deal containing a player option with the Lakers in free agency.

18. Orlando Magic – PG Carlton Carrington – Pittsburgh

While many view the Orlando Magic as a viable destination for Johnny Furphy in this draft, they could also wind up being suitors for a dynamic guard to help lead their backcourt. Carlton Carrington received an invite to the green room, signaling that he could be a top-20 pick in the draft. With the scoring abilities he possesses and only being 18 years old, Carrington would be yet another young, dynamic player the Magic would have on their roster. Next to Jalen Suggs in the backcourt, he could help create a strong one-two punch.

What the Magic have planned in free agency will tell the tale of what direction they go in the NBA Draft. Should they have legitimate interest in pursuing Paul George, Klay Thompson, or someone else, selecting a younger player like Carrington could make a lot of sense for this franchise. Orlando could really use some more scoring weapons, and Carrington would be just that in the backcourt.

19. Toronto Raptors – C Kel'el Ware – Indiana

Where the Toronto Raptors go with this 19th overall pick is a mystery. Masai Ujiri and this front office have been very quiet as to what their intentions are this offseason outside of retaining restricted free agent Immanuel Quickley. Scottie Barnes, RJ Barrett, and Quickley are all talented players, yet the Raptors do not seem primed for immediate growth in the Eastern Conference. It seems more likely they will take this opportunity to target a player for the future, hence why Kel'el Ware can make a lot of sense here.

Ware recently received one of the final green room invites, and he is a stretch big man who has received interest from some teams selecting in the lottery. His length and shooting abilities are what have really captivated teams that brought him in for a workout. The Raptors are one of those teams, and Ware would be the perfect two-way big man for them after relinquishing Pascal Siakam. Who the Raptors select in this spot will set the stage for how the remainder of this first round plays out due to the vast player pool Toronto is considering.

20. Cleveland Cavaliers – SG/SF Johnny Furphy – Kansas

The Cleveland Cavaliers have hired Kenny Atkinson to replace JB Bickerstaff on the sidelines. Atkinson, who is known for his offensive sets and player development, inherits a Cavs roster that is ready to contend right now. It appears as if executive Koby Altman is only wanting to add talent to his roster instead of giving up on the core of Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, Jarrett Allen, and Evan Mobley. Due to Atkinson's ability to develop young players, Furphy would make the most sense for the Cavaliers.

Rumors that Furphy received a promise inside the top 20 have continued to be relevant since he kept his name in the NBA Draft at the withdrawal deadline. Cleveland would be a great spot for Furphy, not only because they need more perimeter shooting but also because a coach like Atkinson could really spend time fine-tuning his game. Expect the Cavs to target a secondary scorer in this draft rather than frontcourt depth.

21. New Orleans Pelicans – C Yves Missi – Baylor

If he is on the board, it is hard to see the New Orleans Pelicans passing up on Yves Missi in this spot, as they are the team that has been most linked to him. With Jonas Valanciunas set to become a free agent, Missi could immediately become the new starting center in New Orleans due to his ability to play above the rim, especially in pick-and-roll sets.

There are multiple scenarios that could play out for the Pelicans on draft night. Brandon Ingram continues to be on the trade block, yet there doesn't appear to be traction on a deal at this time. Dyson Daniels is another player New Orleans would be open to discussing in trades, sources said. In order to cut long-term costs, the Pelicans could realistically trade this pick for more future assets and second-round picks if they aren't sold on Missi's abilities to impact winning right now.

22. Phoenix Suns – PG Tyler Kolek – Marquette

Tyler Kolek has emerged as a main target for the Phoenix Suns in the 2024 NBA Draft, sources said. Between his playmaking and shooting abilities, Kolek is the perfect guard for the Suns to add to their backcourt since they have been in need of a true point guard. At Marquette, Kolek led the country in assists, and he was a very underrated defender despite being only 6'1″. The 23-year-old is ready to win right now, which is why the Suns are eyeing him.

“Winning is in my blood,” Kolek told ClutchPoints in an exclusive pre-draft interview. “Whatever team drafts me, they know they will be getting a player that brings winning qualities that they need to win in the playoffs.”

With the experience of being a four-year collegiate point guard playing on the biggest stage, Kolek is not going to look like a rookie on the court during the 2024-25 season. He is also drawing interest from the Milwaukee Bucks, Utah Jazz, and Minnesota Timberwolves. If the Suns do not prioritize a point guard with this pick, they will undoubtedly target a defensive-minded wing that has the tools to become a solid shooter.

23. Milwaukee Bucks – SG Kyshawn George – Miami (FL)

Out of all the teams in the first round, the Milwaukee Bucks are the only team that could realistically target any position. Brook Lopez and Bobby Portis are both hearing their names in trade rumors, the Bucks have zero depth behind Damian Lillard, and now Khris Middleton's future is suddenly a key talking point. Milwaukee simply needs production that they can turn to on their bench, which is why Kyshawn George could be a viable three-point weapon for them.

At 6'7″ on the wing, George has the tools to be a versatile shooting guard who can drastically improve on defense. During his freshman season at Miami, he shot 40.8 percent from deep. Perhaps the Bucks would want a more established talent like Ryan Dunn or DaRon Holmes II, but George's upside is hard to pass up in this spot. However, if the Bucks truly want to move Lopez this offseason, then going after a big man makes more sense.

24. New York Knicks – SF Ryan Dunn – Virginia

As of right now, there are no indications that the New York Knicks are actively looking to move on from both of their late-first-round picks. With this said, many teams around the league anticipate the Knicks moving one of their back-to-back selections. Whatever the case may be, Ryan Dunn appears to be on their target list. Dunn is a player on New York's radar because of his defensive versatility and on-ball abilities. If his three-point shot can come around, Dunn will be one of the best players in this draft. The Knicks could use another wing on their bench, which makes Dunn worth the risk.

25. New York Knicks – PF/C DaRon Holmes II – Dayton

Another player who would make sense for the Knicks is DaRon Holmes II. Although things didn't work out with Obi Toppin, another Dayton product from a few years ago, Holmes will supply any team that selects him with immediate upside on both sides of the court. Holmes can block shots at one end and then be involved as a pick-and-pop big man on offense. Next to Jalen Brunson, Holmes would find a lot of success in these situations.

Whether or not the Knicks would target a big man revolves around whether they believe Isaiah Hartenstein will return in free agency. Hartenstein is expected to receive interest from other teams. Mitchell Robinson's future has recently been brought up in discussions around the league as well, which could lead the Knicks to target a big man first in this NBA Draft.

26. Washington Wizards – PG Isaiah Collier – USC

Once thought to be in contention for the first pick before his freshman year at USC, Isaiah Collier's stock has slipped into the 20-to-30 range. This is by no means due to his skill, as Collier is one of the most explosive ball handlers in this draft. However, some teams are willing to pass on Collier completely due to his lack of defensive awareness and tendency to play out of control due to his speed. The Wizards need more help in their backcourt, especially with Tyus Jones being a free agent they may not be able to retain.

With his ability to drive downhill and get to the rim, Collier would be the perfect point guard for the Wizards to add after selecting Alex Sarr second overall. Washington would be thrilled to add a talent like Collier late in the first round. The Wizards are also expressing interest in utilizing this 26th overall selection to move up inside the top 20, sources said.

27. Minnesota Timberwolves – SG Terrence Shannon Jr. – Illinois

Terrence Shannon Jr. was recently found not guilty of of felony rape and aggravated sexual assault. As a result, teams have been scrambling to get last-minute information on him and bring him in for workouts. Once thought to fall out of the first round and possibly go undrafted due to his legal status, Shannon is once again drawing interest in the first round. The Timberwolves are in need of more scoring help on the wing, and they were one of the teams to recently host Shannon.

When he met with the team, Shannon impressed the Wolves, leading many around the league to believe he will be their selection in this spot. Shannon possesses the toughness and natural scoring abilities off the dribble to be a key secondary contributor next to Anthony Edwards. Baylor Scheierman is another name to keep an eye on regarding the Wolves.

28. Denver Nuggets – SG Baylor Scheierman – Creighton

DaRon Holmes II, Baylor Scheierman, and Jaylon Tyson are the three names rival teams have been linking to the Denver Nuggets. Then again, it is always hard to predict who the Nuggets will take due to their advanced scouting department always favoring fit and character over immediate talent. If Denver were to select Scheierman, this would be one of the best fits and picks in the first round.

Scheierman can provide instant production as a second-unit player due to his shooting and playmaking abilities. While listed as a shooting guard, the Creighton product can do just about anything asked of him on the court. Just like how Bruce Brown was a Swiss Army Knife for the Nuggets, Scheierman can also be this type of player. The Nuggets are going to come away with an experienced option in this spot who can provide immediate depth on the wing, especially in the event Kentavious Caldwell-Pope leaves in free agency.

29. Utah Jazz – PF/C Kyle Filipowski – Duke

Kyle Filipowski is drawing interest from the lottery to the very last picks in the first round of the 2024 NBA Draft. It is currently hard to project where the Duke big man will end up due to the fact the stock of frontcourt players is all over the place. Filipowski's ultimate landing spot will be determined by where Missi, Holmes, and Ware end up.

The Jazz are in need of more production in their frontcourt, and Filipowski could supply them with this. In addition to being a strong post scorer, Filipowski has proven he can play on the perimeter as a secondary passer. He moves well for a power forward, and the 20-year-old is still growing his offensive game. If he is available here, the Jazz would be smart to take Filipowski.

30. Boston Celtics – SG/SF Jaylon Tyson – California

Jaylon Tyson is drawing interest from teams in the 20-to-30 range of this year's draft, but he is also a candidate to fall into the second round. Tyson provides another do-it-all type of player for the Boston Celtics who could learn a lot defensively from Jrue Holiday and Derrick White. With a 6'8″ wingspan, Tyson would be a solid player that the Celtics could mold into a serviceable bench talent.

Again, this is a spot in the NBA Draft where the team picking will target value based on who falls. The Celtics have no immediate holes to fill, which is why they could potentially go even younger and target a long-term developmental player in this spot.

2024 NBA Mock Draft 4.0: Picks No. 31-58

31. Toronto Raptors – PF Tyler Smith – G League Ignite

There are some concerns with Tyler Smith regarding his perimeter shooting. Still, he is a first-round rated prospect who could go anywhere from 20-40 in this year's draft. It will take time for him to reach his full potential and be a serviceable rotation player in the NBA. The Raptors have time to spend developing a player like this, especially at the expense of a second-round pick.

32. Utah Jazz – SF/PF Bobi Klintman – Sweden (Cairns Taipans – NBL)

Bobi Klintman has suitors in the 20-to-30 range of the first round. However, it is possible he could fall to the second round of the draft. The Swedish forward is a lengthy wing who possesses a 6'11” wingspan and could instantly be a factor for a team that likes to push the pace. The Jazz are one of the teams showing interest in Klintman's potential.

33. Milwaukee Bucks – SG/SF Kevin McCullar – Kansas

Kevin McCullar has slipped to the second round due to a variety of teams being concerned with his medicals. While he has first-round talent, McCullar's knee injury, which ended his senior season at Kansas, has carried over to his ability to perform during the pre-draft process. When healthy, he can be a rotational two-way wing.

34. Portland Trail Blazers – SG Cam Christie – Minnesota

The brother of Lakers guard Max Christie, Cam Christie made a name for himself during his freshman season at Minnesota by being a lengthy wing with upside as a shooter. Christie's two-way potential on the wing makes him an option for a Blazers team lacking defensive intensity.

35. San Antonio Spurs – SG Pacôme Dadiet – France (Ratiopharm Ulm – Bundesliga)

Another high-upside player who is expected to be a second-round pick is Pacome Dadiet from France. Dadiet has presented a lot of potential as a perimeter scorer at the shooting guard position and still has a lot of room for growth. The Spurs would certainly benefit from taking a swing at him as a developmental prospect. It is possible that a team like the Jazz or Celtics could take a swing at him late in the first round.

36. Indiana Pacers – SG AJ Johnson – USA (Illawarra Hawks – NBL)

AJ Johnson has first-round potential. After rising up draft boards with his scrimmage performances at the NBA Draft Combine last month, Johnson is drawing interest from many teams. It is likely he will spend the vast majority of the 2024-25 season developing more in the G League.

37. Minnesota Timberwolves – SG/SF Justin Edwards – Kentucky

Once thought to be a potential lottery pick, Justin Edwards is likely to be an early second-round selection. At the combine, Edwards showcased his abilities to impact scoring both inside and outside the arc. The Timberwolves need more scoring weapons, making Edwards yet another development project for them to work with.

38. New York Knicks – PG Jamal Shead – Houston

Jamal Shead is going to bring gritty defensive play and toughness to any team that selects him in the second round of the NBA Draft. His leadership and experience are tough to find in players during this portion of the draft. The Knicks could use another smart and reliable option behind Jalen Brunson, which is why Shead could see minutes right away in Tom Thibodeau's rotation.

39. Memphis Grizzlies – PF Jonathan Mogbo – San Francisco

Expect to hear Jonathan Mogbo's name called in the 25-to-40 range of the 2024 NBA Draft. At the combine, Mogbo proved to be a skilled forward who could initiate his team's offense while also being a focal point on defense. The Grizzlies are always looking for athletes with length, and that is what they would be getting in a power forward like Mogbo.

40. Portland Trail Blazers – PF/C Ulrich Chomche – Cameroon (Basketball Africa League)

Standing 6'10” with a 7'4″ wingspan, Ulrich Chomche has the intangibles to be a terrific defensive big man in the NBA. Just 18 years old, he would be a young prospect the Blazers look to develop into their next long-term option in the frontcourt.

41. Philadelphia 76ers – SF Harrison Ingram – North Carolina

Harrison Ingram is a really steady player in the NBA Draft. He is one of the better rebounding forwards and can be a secondary playmaker alongside solid guard play. Ingram should be a solid rotational player given his 7'0″ wingspan and defensive instincts. The 76ers need two-way options who can run in transition, and Ingram would be a very sneaky pick for them at 41st overall.

42. Charlotte Hornets – SG/SF Trentyn Flowers – USA (Adelaide 36ers – NBL)

There is a lot of momentum surrounding Trentyn Flowers right now, and there are various teams interested in taking a swing at him in the second round. He recently conducted workouts with the Kings, Jazz, Celtics, and Hornets. While he will need time to develop in the G League, Flowers is certainly the type of player who could work wonders on the wing for the Hornets, given his athleticism and natural scoring abilities at the rim.

43. Miami Heat – SF Dillon Jones – Weber State

All indications point towards Caleb Martin opting out of his contract and becoming a free agent. Michael Scotto of HoopsHype recently reported similar. The Heat could use another forward, and Dillon Jones' all-around understanding of the game makes him a player that is ideal for Spoelstra's system. At 6'5″ and 240 pounds on the wing, Jones can be a wing that crashes the boards in Miami.

44. Houston Rockets – SF/PF Keshad Johnson – Arizona

The Rockets are looking to make a serious playoff push next season. Keshad Johnson wouldn't enter the league as a starter, but he is a bigger forward who uses his stature to his advantage, especially in the paint. He would be a solid rotational player for Udoka to have.

45. Sacramento Kings – C Adem Bona – UCLA

The Kings need another impactful player behind Domantas Sabonis. Adem 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. He should be able to work his way into rotations as a rookie.

46. Los Angeles Clippers – PF Enrique Freeman – Akron

Enrique Freeman has gone from a likely undrafted player to someone who should undoubtedly be a second-round pick after his combine performances. For a team like the Los Angeles Clippers, Freeman would provide immediate rebounding depth and toughness in the paint. The questions for the Clippers revolve around Paul George and whether he will be back. At this time, there is momentum trending in the direction of George departing Los Angeles.

47. Orlando Magic – SG/SF Jaylen Wells – Washington State

There are quite a few teams showing interest in Jaylen Wells. After shooting above 40 percent from three-point range at Washington State, Wells figures to be a rookie who teams will look to sign to a two-way contract whether or not he is drafted. The Magic always tend to like wings with length and defensive instincts, two things Wells possesses.

48. San Antonio Spurs – PG/SG Ajay Mitchell – UC Santa Barbara

Ajay Mitchell stood out at the NBA Draft Combine in May due to his playmaking and athletic abilities in the scrimmages. The Spurs are in need of some backcourt help and will likely target at least one guard during the draft. There are no doubts that Mitchell can be a key secondary facilitator off the bench during his rookie season.

49. Indiana Pacers – SG/SF Nikola Djurisic – Serbia (KK Mega Basket – ABA)

Whatever team drafts Nikola Djurisic will be thrilled to get him at this point in the second round. Djurisic is confident as a playmaker with the ball in his hands, and he has displayed strong shooting confidence overseas. His size is appealing for teams in need of a wing in the second round.

50. Indiana Pacers – SG Cam Spencer – UConn

Cam Spencer is a winner. After helping lead UConn to their second straight national championship, Spencer would bring confidence and a winning mentality to a young, hungry Pacers team. Much like how they drafted Ben Sheppard last year for his shooting abilities and character, the Pacers would do the same here with Spencer. The Lakers are another team interested in Spencer, sources said.

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

Melvin Ajinca has drawn the attention of scouts due to his three-point presence. Teams will view him as a 3-and-D prospect in the second round of the NBA Draft, making him a potential stash player for the Wizards on the wing after taking fellow Frenchman Alex Sarr earlier.

52. Golden State Warriors – SF Jalen Bridges – Baylor

At Baylor, Jalen 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. The Golden State Warriors drafting the 23-year-old would follow a similar trend of targeting older collegiate talents in recent years.

53. Detroit Pistons – SG Antonio Reeves – Kentucky

While he will likely spend a lot of time in the G League during his rookie season, Antonio Reeves finds himself as one of the better scoring weapons available in the second round. The Pistons could use more scoring options on their bench, hence the fit for Reeves in this spot at the end of the draft, especially on a two-way contract.

54. Boston Celtics – PG Tristan Newton – UConn

Tristan Newton is going to be a versatile guard many teams in the second round will consider taking, especially if he's willing to play the 2024-25 season on a two-way contract. Newton is a very confident player who does what it takes to win. This should resonate with a team like the Celtics, who could use an extra player in their backcourt for depth.

55. Los Angeles Lakers – PG Bronny James – USC

Despite Rich Paul coming out and stating that various teams have interest in Bronny James, that doesn't appear to be the case. No teams other than the Suns and Lakers have been given a chance to host Bronny for a workout, and there are many who are skeptical about his camp's true intentions. Paul has made it clear James will not sign a two-way contract, which is a deal most teams would want him to sign since he will spend all season in the G League developing.

If Bronny had worked out for more teams, there would have been real momentum surrounding him possibly being a late first-round prospect. Now, with everyone knowing that Paul wants Bronny in Los Angeles, the Lakers can fulfill LeBron's wish of playing with his son. At this point, many NBA scouts feel as if Bronny will end up with the Lakers either as a second-round pick or an undrafted free agent.

56. Denver Nuggets – C Oso Ighodaro – Marquette

Oso Ighodaro may be one of the best defensive big men in this draft class. He has a strong sense for moving off the ball, and on offense, Ighodaro can finish with ease around the rim. The Nuggets need a strong big man behind Nikola Jokic, and Ighodaro can supply them with this.

57. Memphis Grizzlies – 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. Whether or not he is a draft-and-stash guy or someone who comes over right away is yet to be known. The Grizzlies would likely stash Nunez and save him for a year or two down the line.

58. Dallas Mavericks – PG KJ Simpson – Colorado

KJ Simpson has drawn attention from teams selecting at the end of the first round after his stellar performances at the NBA Draft Combine. Although it would be shocking for him to be the last pick in the NBA Draft, his range is very wide-open. The 21-year-old can get past defenders while driving to the rim, and he is just a very smart player when he has the ball in his hands, making Simpson a serviceable backup option for the Dallas Mavericks.