The Atlanta Hawks won the 2024 NBA draft lottery Sunday, securing the No. 1 overall pick on June 26. It will be the first time the Hawks have ever had the top pick.
Unlike last year, when Victor Wembanyama was the clear-cut No. 1 prospect, there's not a consensus top player on draft boards for the 2024 class. Going into this week's NBA combine, the top two prospects are French players: Zaccharie Risacher (Bourg) and Alex Sarr (Perth). Two college prospects are close behind them: UConn's Donovan Clingan and Kentucky's Rob Dillingham.
Jonathan Givony and Jeremy Woo share their first mock draft post-lottery, which reflects a thorough evaluation of the 2024 class and considers intel from scouts and front office personnel.
NBA draft coverage:
Answering 14 questions off the lottery
NBA combine preview: Top storylines
Big Board rankings | Draft order | More
FIRST ROUND
1. Atlanta Hawks
Alex Sarr
Perth
PF/C
Age: 19.0
The Hawks caught lightning in a bottle in Sunday's lottery, converting on just a 3% chance to win (10th-best odds) the top pick. Suffice it to say, this is a major stroke of fortune for Atlanta, which doesn't control its own first-round pick again until 2028, owing future picks and swaps to the San Antonio Spurs. This had been viewed as an offseason of potentially big changes for Atlanta, as the Hawks weigh the luxury tax and attempt to navigate their way out of the middle of the Eastern Conference standings. Now they'll unexpectedly have a chance to pick who they want from atop the draft.
Coming off a solid year in the NBL, Sarr is the most physically gifted big in this class, and could give Atlanta a much-needed element of size and floor spacing from the frontcourt. He'll have work to do in expanding his offensive game, sharpening his 3-point range and adjusting to the speed of the NBA, but could be quite valuable as someone who can stretch the floor and protect the rim at both the 4 and 5 spots. If the goal is to build a better defense around Trae Young, Sarr looks like a strong fit because of his versatility on both ends of the floor. -- Jeremy Woo
2. Washington Wizards
Zaccharie Risacher
Bourg
SF
Age: 19.0
The Wizards' front office can afford to take a big swing at the top of the draft as the team enters Year 2 of what figures to be a patient, long-term rebuild. Washington's roster remains fluid into the future, and the team should be looking for the best talent available at this spot. Risacher's potential to space the floor, defend at a high level and develop into a quality starter on the wing presents an attractive mix of safety and upside at No. 2. Washington selected another Frenchman, Bilal Coulibaly, in last year's lottery, and will have an opportunity to keep that trend going, with at least one of Risacher and Sarr available to them here. -- Woo
3. Houston Rockets (via Brooklyn Nets)
Reed Sheppard
Kentucky
PG/SG
Age: 19.8
The Rockets turned the page on their rebuild by hiring coach Ime Udoka and making a splash in free agency last summer. Houston could look at plug-and-play options with this pick considering the youthful roster construction. Shooting will likely be a priority this summer, and the dynamic shot-making versatility of Sheppard -- who made over 50% of his 3s this season -- could be attractive, along with his feel for the game and defensive instincts. Expect Donovan Clingan to get a look here as well if the front office thinks he can play heavy minutes alongside Alperen Sengun in a multi-big-men lineups. -- Jonathan Givony
4. San Antonio Spurs
Rob Dillingham
Kentucky
PG
Age: 19.3
The Spurs struck gold in last year's draft lottery, and this year is icing on the cake while building around Victor Wembanyama's star power. The Spurs' messy Jeremy Sochan experiment only amplified the need for a point guard who can complement Wembanyama's extraordinary skill level, making the draft's top backcourt prospects the natural place to look. Dillingham's combination of perimeter shooting, ballhandling and pick-and-roll playmaking gives him significant offensive potential to grow into long term. His size and defensive limitations could be mitigated alongside a future Defensive Player of the Year-caliber rim-protector such as Wembanyama cleaning up mistakes behind him. -- Givony
5. Detroit Pistons
Matas Buzelis
G League Ignite
SF/PF
Age: 19.5
The Pistons are the NBA's worst 3-point shooting team and among the league's worst defenses, meaning they could be attracted to the combination of perimeter shooting, explosiveness, defensive versatility and youth Buzelis offers. He made 45% of his 3-pointers as a high school senior, but saw that number drop significantly with G League Ignite. Buzelis looks like a strong fit positionally with the rest of Detroit's core and is the type of player who doesn't need plays called for him, but still has significant upside to grow into. -- Givony
6. Charlotte Hornets
Donovan Clingan
UConn
C
Age: 20.2
With executive vice president of basketball operations Jeff Peterson in the front office and new head coach Charles Lee, the Hornets have the flexibility to take multiple directions, considering the roster's makeup and the longer timetable that comes with an organizational refresh and new ownership. The frontcourt is a natural place to look to strengthen the roster and build around last year's No. 2 pick, Brandon Miller, whose future looks extremely bright after finishing third in the Rookie of the Year race. Clingan makes a compelling argument for being the next big man to come off the board, with defensive impact at the forefront of the discussion. The Hornets would surely be highly attracted to the size, length, rim-protection and passing ability of Clingan, who is coming off back-to-back national championships at UConn and has room for growth alongside their core at just 20 years old. -- Givony
7. Portland Trail Blazers
Nikola Topic
Mega MIS
PG
Age: 18.7
The Blazers aren't far enough along in their rebuild to worry too much about positional fit, and Topic's combination of size and playmaking ability differentiates his skill set from the guards they already have on the roster. Portland can take a swing on the best available talent here, envisioning Topic as part of a multi-playmaker attack alongside Scoot Henderson, Shaedon Sharpe and Anfernee Simons. At this spot in the draft, Topic is an intriguing bet, with his feel and passing ability likely to help enhance opportunities for others around him. -- Woo
8. San Antonio Spurs
Dalton Knecht
Tennessee
SF
Age: 23.0
After addressing their point guard situation with the No. 4 pick, it might make sense for the Spurs to look at adding shooting to their roster to give Victor Wembanyama ample spacing to maximize his offensive gifts. The Spurs surely have eyes on being competitive sooner rather than later with Wembanyama about to become an MVP candidate in the near future, so picking a 23-year old plug-and-play shooter/scorer such as Knecht looks like an attractive option. His defensive shortcomings can be mitigated to an extent playing behind a future Defensive Player of the Year like Wembanyama. -- Givony
9. Memphis Grizzlies
Stephon Castle
UConn
PG/SG
Age: 19.5
The Grizzlies are a best-player-available front office and will be eager to return to the playoffs after an injury-plagued season. While Castle isn't a perfect fit because of the questions around his shooting, he has upside because of his size, defensive versatility and playmaking, which give him attractive swiss-army-knife capabilities that could fast-track his pathway to useful minutes. Castle's range of strengths should allow him to fit into a variety of lineups, particularly if he can shore up his 3-point shooting, and makes him an intriguing fit with Memphis's current personnel in the short and long term. -- Woo
10. Utah Jazz
Ron Holland
G League Ignite
SF
Age: 18.8
Rolling the dice on Holland, once viewed as a candidate for the top pick, might be an interesting value play if he's on the board here. His competitiveness, defensive versatility and aggressiveness could be a solid option alongside playmakers such as Keyonte George and Collin Sexton to help lessen his scoring load and allow him to assume his more natural role as a high-energy defender on the wing. -- Givony
11. Chicago Bulls
Isaiah Collier
USC
PG
Age: 19.5
With guard Zach Lavine reportedly a candidate to be traded and a need for additional backcourt playmaking as a priority this offseason, the shot-creation prowess and scoring instincts of Collier will be studied closely by the Bulls' front office should he be available with this pick. Collier has flaws but also offers some real star power and upside with his size, strength and slashing ability at 19 years old, especially if his perimeter shooting improves. -- Givony
12. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Houston Rockets)
Cody Williams
Colorado
SG/SF
Age: 19.4
The Thunder can feasibly go any direction in adding to their young core with this pick, a luxury for the Western Conference's No. 1 seed. Williams, the younger brother of Thunder star Jalen Williams, could be a natural fit, offering much of the versatility and size executive vice president and general manager Sam Presti has long favored in his perimeter talent. It would also be a situation where Williams wouldn't be asked to play a major role early in his career. Cody is still a ways from contributing at a high level, but the flashes he showed at Colorado have kept him in the lottery mix. -- Woo
13. Sacramento Kings
Ja'Kobe Walter
Baylor
SG/SF
Age: 19.6
The Kings could look to bolster their wing depth with key reserve Malik Monk entering free agency, through either the draft or other means. A movement shooter such as Walter who can run off screens and bring high-level intensity defensively makes plenty of sense. He also has plenty of upside to grow into at 19 years old. -- Givony
14. Portland Trail Blazers (via Golden State Warriors)
Tidjane Salaun
Cholet
PF
Age: 18.7
Salaun would be another intriguing addition to Portland's frontcourt, helping to balance out a guard-heavy roster. His potential to space the floor, supply energy and versatility, and that he doesn't need designed touches, makes him an interesting fit with the future in mind. Salaun is still raw in important areas of his game -- he'll need seasoning and time to reach his potential -- but he should be an appealing project if he can make strides as a shooter and decision-maker. -- Woo
15. Miami Heat
Zach Edey
Purdue
C
Age: 21.9
Edey's positional fit alongside Bam Adebayo would be a topic of discussion in Miami, but his productivity, physicality, intensity and team-culture match would be welcomed by the Heat. Adebayo started to slowly incorporate a 3-point shot into his offensive arsenal late this season and has the type of defensive versatility that could be useful alongside another big. Edey's offensive rebounding and interior scoring are skills the Heat lack, making him an attractive pick here. -- Givony
16. Philadelphia 76ers
Devin Carter
Providence
PG/SG
Age: 22.1
Most playoff teams could use the defensive versatility, toughness and developing outside shooting Carter brings, especially on a roster with ample shot creation like the 76ers have with Tyrese Maxey and Joel Embiid. The 2023-24 Big East Player of the Year looks like a plug-and-play option at 22 years old, which will be attractive to several teams drafting in this range. -- Givony
17. Los Angeles Lakers*
Jared McCain
Duke
PG
Age: 20.2
The Pelicans own the rights to this Lakers pick but are expected to defer it to 2025 to receive the pick in what should be a deeper draft. Assuming that's what happens, expect Los Angeles to target an NBA-ready talent who can contribute next season as part of what could be an overhauled roster. McCain's shooting ability, feel for his role and capacity to play both guard positions could fast-track him into minutes somewhere next season after a solid freshman year at Duke, presuming he can hold up defensively early on. -- Woo
18. Orlando Magic
Tristan da Silva
Colorado
SF/PF
Age: 22.9
The Magic ranked among the worst 3-point shooting teams this season and will look to improve in that area this offseason. Da Silva, a plug-and-play option who turns 23 on May 15, brings coveted defensive versatility and feel for the game. He also doesn't need plays called for him, which could be attractive operating alongside existing young stars Franz Wagner and Paolo Banchero. -- Givony
19. Toronto Raptors (via Indiana Pacers)
Kyle Filipowski
Duke
PF/C
Age: 20.5
The Raptors can add size with Filipowski, who has one of the wider ranges among projected first-rounders. His skill level and offensive versatility could make him a unique player if he can improve his perimeter shooting. After making strides defensively last season, he'll likely have to be deployed alongside a rim protector, making him more of a specific fit for teams willing to play with two bigs. His ability to play all over the floor, pass and potentially create mismatches at his size make him intriguing for the long term. -- Woo
20. Cleveland Cavaliers
Tyler Smith
G League Ignite
SF/PF
Age: 19.5
The Cavs don't have a true stretch-4 on the roster and could choose to develop Smith into that mold, following a successful season in the G League that helped clarify his role at the NBA level. Smith likely needs another season to develop physically and get accustomed to the speed of the league, but he looks to be on a positive trajectory. He has plenty of room for growth as a shooter and should be able to pack on strength to his frame, giving him a pathway as a useful role player. -- Woo
21. New Orleans Pelicans (via Milwaukee Bucks)
Yves Missi
Baylor
C
Age: 19.9
New Orleans has a need for more athleticism at the 5, and while Missi would be a project, he might help address that in the long run. Missi's size, tools and flashes of scoring ability piqued enough interest from scouts to vault him into the draft, but there are some lingering questions about his overall feel and lack of high-level experience. He'd likely benefit from G League time, but the right organization might be able to mold him into a useful rim-running big. -- Woo
22. Phoenix Suns
Bobi Klintman
Cairns
SF/PF
Age: 21.1
The Suns traded away most of their draft capital in the coming years to build a superteam anchored around Kevin Durant, Devin Booker and Bradley Beal, so this pick is a rare chance to inject the team with young talent on a cost-controlled rookie scale contract. Wing depth will likely be important for the Suns, especially with perimeter shooting and defensive versatility at a premium. Klintman, who is old enough at 21 to be expected to play a role in the short term, also has some intriguing ingredients to develop long-term with his size, range and defensive playmaking ability. -- Woo
23. Milwaukee Bucks (via New Orleans Pelicans)
Johnny Furphy
Kansas
SG/SF
Age: 19.4
The Bucks will need to continue to space the floor adequately for their superstars, which means continuing to add shooting at every position. A 6-foot-9 wing like Furphy who can make shots while also contributing in the open floor and as a cutter could be interesting both in the short and long term for Milwaukee, which will also likely explore trades if more ready-made players are offered here. -- Givony
24. New York Knicks (via Dallas Mavericks)
Kyshawn George
Miami
SG/SF
Age: 20.4
Teams are all over the board on George, but his shooting, playmaking and feel at his size make him a potential name on the rise in the pre-draft process. He'd be a big upside swing for the Knicks, who have amassed talent nicely and can go several different ways with their picks. George is an interesting gamble, as it's easy to see the role he could fill in the NBA, but he'll need to make a big leap in several key areas -- particularly scoring in the paint. His range could be anywhere from the late lottery to the early second round, depending on how the next month plays out for him. -- Woo
25. New York Knicks
Carlton Carrington
Pittsburgh
PG/SG
Age: 18.8
The Knicks have strong depth and versatility at nearly every position and can afford to take a couple of swings on long-term upside if they decide to keep one or both of their first-round picks. Carrington is one of the youngest players in this draft and will need time to gain strength and add experience before he's ready to play a real role in the NBA, but his positional size, dynamic perimeter shooting and strong basketball instincts make him someone a team in this range could bet on. -- Givony
26. Washington Wizards (via LA Clippers)
Justin Edwards
Kentucky
SG/SF
Age: 20.3
Edwards did not have the season many expected at Kentucky but is still worthy of consideration in this area of the draft at 6-7 with some perimeter shooting acumen and upside to grow into after one season in college. The Wizards could look to bolster their wing depth, which would make Edwards a candidate to get drafted late in the first round. -- Givony
27. Minnesota Timberwolves
Kel'el Ware
Indiana
C
Age: 20.0
Minnesota has found considerable success in the playoffs with its superior size advantage and might want to continue to lean into that strategy by stockpiling frontcourt talent. Ware has tremendous physical ability with his size, length and mobility as well as his ability to stretch the floor and protect the rim in small doses. There could be some parallels drawn between his pathway and the one Sixth Man of the Year Naz Reid is on. -- Givony
28. Denver Nuggets
Tyler Kolek
Marquette
PG
Age: 23.1
The Nuggets, squarely in the midst of a contention window with MVP Nikola Jokic, have not been shy about targeting NBA-ready college players in recent drafts, valuing immediate returns on their late first-round picks. Kolek checks those boxes, with the moxie and pick-and-roll smarts to step in and provide backup minutes. His defense and athletic ability are below average for an NBA guard, but he's extremely competitive, which will help endear him to teams in need of point guard depth. -- Woo
29. Utah Jazz (via Oklahoma City Thunder)
Kevin McCullar Jr.
Kansas
SF
Age: 23.1
McCullar is still dealing with the remnants of a knee injury that derailed the second half of his season, which might make it difficult for him to have as extensive a pre-draft process as teams might hope. Teams that dig into the tape will see McCullar is an excellent defender and passer and was shooting the ball as well as he ever had in his career before getting hurt. -- Givony
30. Boston Celtics
Juan Nunez
Ratiopharm Ulm
PG
Age: 19.9
Boston has an opportunity to affordably shore up its depth with this pick, presumably in search of a player who can help with its current run atop the East. The 19-year-old Nunez has excellent playmaking acumen and has put together a strong season in Germany, giving him a pathway to becoming a viable NBA contributor if he can make shots and defend at a high enough level. -- Woo
*The New Orleans Pelicans have the option to take the Los Angeles Lakers' pick at No. 17 overall or defer it to 2025. They have until June 1 to decide.
SECOND ROUND
31. Toronto Raptors (via Detroit Pistons)
Ryan Dunn | Virginia | SF | Age: 21.3
32. Utah Jazz (via Washington Wizards)
Jaylon Tyson | California | SG/SF | Age: 21.4
33. Milwaukee Bucks (via Portland Trail Blazers)
Terrence Shannon Jr. | Illinois | SG/SF | Age: 23.7
34. Portland Trail Blazers (via Charlotte Hornets)
Harrison Ingram | North Carolina | SF/PF | Age: 21.4
35. San Antonio Spurs
Payton Sandfort | Iowa | SF | Age: 21.8
36. Indiana Pacers (via Toronto Raptors)
Cam Christie | Minnesota | SG | Age: 18.7
37. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Memphis Grizzlies)
Dillon Jones | Weber State | SF/PF | Age: 22.5
38. New York Knicks (via Utah Jazz)
Izan Almansa | G League Ignite | PF/C | Age: 18.8
39. Memphis Grizzlies (via Brooklyn Nets)
Baylor Scheierman | Creighton | SG/SF | Age: 23.6
40. Portland Trail Blazers (via Atlanta Hawks)
Ulrich Chomche | NBA Academy Showcase | C | Age: 18.3
41. Philadelphia 76ers (via Chicago Bulls)
Pacome Dadiet | Ratiopharm Ulm | SG/SF | Age: 18.7
42. Charlotte Hornets (via Houston Rockets)
Alex Karaban | UConn | PF | Age: 21.4
43. Miami Heat
Melvin Ajinca | Saint Quentin | SG/SF | Age: 19.8
44. Houston Rockets (via Golden State Warriors)
Trevon Brazile | Arkansas | PF/C | Age: 21.3
45. Sacramento Kings
Keshad Johnson | Arizona | PF | Age: 22.8
46. LA Clippers (via Indiana Pacers)
Pelle Larsson | Arizona | SG | Age: 23.2
47. Orlando Magic
KJ Simpson | Colorado | PG | Age: 21.7
48. San Antonio Spurs (via Los Angeles Lakers)
Hunter Sallis | Wake Forest | SG | Age: 21.1
49. Indiana Pacers (via Cleveland Cavaliers)
Adem Bona | UCLA | C | Age: 21.1
50. Indiana Pacers (via New Orleans Pelicans)
DaRon Holmes II | Dayton | PF/C | Age: 21.7
51. Washington Wizards (via Phoenix Suns)
Ajay Mitchell | UC Santa Barbara | PG | Age: 21.8
52. Golden State Warriors (via Milwaukee Bucks)
Jaxson Robinson | BYU | SG/SF | Age: 21.4
53. Detroit Pistons (via New York Knicks)
Nikola Durisic | Mega MIS | SG/SF | Age: 20.2
54. Boston Celtics (via Dallas Mavericks)
Jaylen Wells | Washington St. | SG/SF | Age: 20.7
55. Los Angeles Lakers (via LA Clippers)
Jamal Shead | Houston | PG | Age: 21.7
56. Denver Nuggets (via Minnesota Timberwolves)
Jalen Bridges | Baylor | SF | Age: 22.9
57. Memphis Grizzlies (via Oklahoma City Thunder)
Ariel Hukporti | Melbourne | C | Age: 22.0
58. Dallas Mavericks (via Boston Celtics)
Cam Spencer | UConn | SG | Age: 24.0
Note: The Philadelphia 76ers and Phoenix Suns forfeited a 2024 second-round draft pick.
Jonathan Givony is an NBA draft expert and the founder and co-owner of DraftExpress.com, a private scouting and analytics service used by NBA, NCAA and international teams.
Jeremy Woo is an NBA analyst specializing in prospect evaluation and the draft. He was previously a staff writer and draft insider at Sports Illustrated.
The Atlanta Hawks won the 2024 NBA draft lottery Sunday, securing the No. 1 overall pick on June 26. It will be the first time the Hawks have ever had the top pick.
Unlike last year, when Victor Wembanyama was the clear-cut No. 1 prospect, there's not a consensus top player on draft boards for the 2024 class. Going into this week's NBA combine, the top two prospects are French players: Zaccharie Risacher (Bourg) and Alex Sarr (Perth). Two college prospects are close behind them: UConn's Donovan Clingan and Kentucky's Rob Dillingham.
Jonathan Givony and Jeremy Woo share their first mock draft post-lottery, which reflects a thorough evaluation of the 2024 class and considers intel from scouts and front office personnel.
NBA draft coverage:
Answering 14 questions off the lottery
NBA combine preview: Top storylines
Big Board rankings | Draft order | More
FIRST ROUND
1. Atlanta Hawks
Alex Sarr
Perth
PF/C
Age: 19.0
The Hawks caught lightning in a bottle in Sunday's lottery, converting on just a 3% chance to win (10th-best odds) the top pick. Suffice it to say, this is a major stroke of fortune for Atlanta, which doesn't control its own first-round pick again until 2028, owing future picks and swaps to the San Antonio Spurs. This had been viewed as an offseason of potentially big changes for Atlanta, as the Hawks weigh the luxury tax and attempt to navigate their way out of the middle of the Eastern Conference standings. Now they'll unexpectedly have a chance to pick who they want from atop the draft.
Coming off a solid year in the NBL, Sarr is the most physically gifted big in this class, and could give Atlanta a much-needed element of size and floor spacing from the frontcourt. He'll have work to do in expanding his offensive game, sharpening his 3-point range and adjusting to the speed of the NBA, but could be quite valuable as someone who can stretch the floor and protect the rim at both the 4 and 5 spots. If the goal is to build a better defense around Trae Young, Sarr looks like a strong fit because of his versatility on both ends of the floor. -- Jeremy Woo
2. Washington Wizards
Zaccharie Risacher
Bourg
SF
Age: 19.0
The Wizards' front office can afford to take a big swing at the top of the draft as the team enters Year 2 of what figures to be a patient, long-term rebuild. Washington's roster remains fluid into the future, and the team should be looking for the best talent available at this spot. Risacher's potential to space the floor, defend at a high level and develop into a quality starter on the wing presents an attractive mix of safety and upside at No. 2. Washington selected another Frenchman, Bilal Coulibaly, in last year's lottery, and will have an opportunity to keep that trend going, with at least one of Risacher and Sarr available to them here. -- Woo
3. Houston Rockets (via Brooklyn Nets)
Reed Sheppard
Kentucky
PG/SG
Age: 19.8
The Rockets turned the page on their rebuild by hiring coach Ime Udoka and making a splash in free agency last summer. Houston could look at plug-and-play options with this pick considering the youthful roster construction. Shooting will likely be a priority this summer, and the dynamic shot-making versatility of Sheppard -- who made over 50% of his 3s this season -- could be attractive, along with his feel for the game and defensive instincts. Expect Donovan Clingan to get a look here as well if the front office thinks he can play heavy minutes alongside Alperen Sengun in a multi-big-men lineups. -- Jonathan Givony
4. San Antonio Spurs
Rob Dillingham
Kentucky
PG
Age: 19.3
The Spurs struck gold in last year's draft lottery, and this year is icing on the cake while building around Victor Wembanyama's star power. The Spurs' messy Jeremy Sochan experiment only amplified the need for a point guard who can complement Wembanyama's extraordinary skill level, making the draft's top backcourt prospects the natural place to look. Dillingham's combination of perimeter shooting, ballhandling and pick-and-roll playmaking gives him significant offensive potential to grow into long term. His size and defensive limitations could be mitigated alongside a future Defensive Player of the Year-caliber rim-protector such as Wembanyama cleaning up mistakes behind him. -- Givony
5. Detroit Pistons
Matas Buzelis
G League Ignite
SF/PF
Age: 19.5
The Pistons are the NBA's worst 3-point shooting team and among the league's worst defenses, meaning they could be attracted to the combination of perimeter shooting, explosiveness, defensive versatility and youth Buzelis offers. He made 45% of his 3-pointers as a high school senior, but saw that number drop significantly with G League Ignite. Buzelis looks like a strong fit positionally with the rest of Detroit's core and is the type of player who doesn't need plays called for him, but still has significant upside to grow into. -- Givony
6. Charlotte Hornets
Donovan Clingan
UConn
C
Age: 20.2
With executive vice president of basketball operations Jeff Peterson in the front office and new head coach Charles Lee, the Hornets have the flexibility to take multiple directions, considering the roster's makeup and the longer timetable that comes with an organizational refresh and new ownership. The frontcourt is a natural place to look to strengthen the roster and build around last year's No. 2 pick, Brandon Miller, whose future looks extremely bright after finishing third in the Rookie of the Year race. Clingan makes a compelling argument for being the next big man to come off the board, with defensive impact at the forefront of the discussion. The Hornets would surely be highly attracted to the size, length, rim-protection and passing ability of Clingan, who is coming off back-to-back national championships at UConn and has room for growth alongside their core at just 20 years old. -- Givony
7. Portland Trail Blazers
Nikola Topic
Mega MIS
PG
Age: 18.7
The Blazers aren't far enough along in their rebuild to worry too much about positional fit, and Topic's combination of size and playmaking ability differentiates his skill set from the guards they already have on the roster. Portland can take a swing on the best available talent here, envisioning Topic as part of a multi-playmaker attack alongside Scoot Henderson, Shaedon Sharpe and Anfernee Simons. At this spot in the draft, Topic is an intriguing bet, with his feel and passing ability likely to help enhance opportunities for others around him. -- Woo
8. San Antonio Spurs
Dalton Knecht
Tennessee
SF
Age: 23.0
After addressing their point guard situation with the No. 4 pick, it might make sense for the Spurs to look at adding shooting to their roster to give Victor Wembanyama ample spacing to maximize his offensive gifts. The Spurs surely have eyes on being competitive sooner rather than later with Wembanyama about to become an MVP candidate in the near future, so picking a 23-year old plug-and-play shooter/scorer such as Knecht looks like an attractive option. His defensive shortcomings can be mitigated to an extent playing behind a future Defensive Player of the Year like Wembanyama. -- Givony
9. Memphis Grizzlies
Stephon Castle
UConn
PG/SG
Age: 19.5
The Grizzlies are a best-player-available front office and will be eager to return to the playoffs after an injury-plagued season. While Castle isn't a perfect fit because of the questions around his shooting, he has upside because of his size, defensive versatility and playmaking, which give him attractive swiss-army-knife capabilities that could fast-track his pathway to useful minutes. Castle's range of strengths should allow him to fit into a variety of lineups, particularly if he can shore up his 3-point shooting, and makes him an intriguing fit with Memphis's current personnel in the short and long term. -- Woo
10. Utah Jazz
Ron Holland
G League Ignite
SF
Age: 18.8
Rolling the dice on Holland, once viewed as a candidate for the top pick, might be an interesting value play if he's on the board here. His competitiveness, defensive versatility and aggressiveness could be a solid option alongside playmakers such as Keyonte George and Collin Sexton to help lessen his scoring load and allow him to assume his more natural role as a high-energy defender on the wing. -- Givony
11. Chicago Bulls
Isaiah Collier
USC
PG
Age: 19.5
With guard Zach Lavine reportedly a candidate to be traded and a need for additional backcourt playmaking as a priority this offseason, the shot-creation prowess and scoring instincts of Collier will be studied closely by the Bulls' front office should he be available with this pick. Collier has flaws but also offers some real star power and upside with his size, strength and slashing ability at 19 years old, especially if his perimeter shooting improves. -- Givony
12. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Houston Rockets)
Cody Williams
Colorado
SG/SF
Age: 19.4
The Thunder can feasibly go any direction in adding to their young core with this pick, a luxury for the Western Conference's No. 1 seed. Williams, the younger brother of Thunder star Jalen Williams, could be a natural fit, offering much of the versatility and size executive vice president and general manager Sam Presti has long favored in his perimeter talent. It would also be a situation where Williams wouldn't be asked to play a major role early in his career. Cody is still a ways from contributing at a high level, but the flashes he showed at Colorado have kept him in the lottery mix. -- Woo
13. Sacramento Kings
Ja'Kobe Walter
Baylor
SG/SF
Age: 19.6
The Kings could look to bolster their wing depth with key reserve Malik Monk entering free agency, through either the draft or other means. A movement shooter such as Walter who can run off screens and bring high-level intensity defensively makes plenty of sense. He also has plenty of upside to grow into at 19 years old. -- Givony
14. Portland Trail Blazers (via Golden State Warriors)
Tidjane Salaun
Cholet
PF
Age: 18.7
Salaun would be another intriguing addition to Portland's frontcourt, helping to balance out a guard-heavy roster. His potential to space the floor, supply energy and versatility, and that he doesn't need designed touches, makes him an interesting fit with the future in mind. Salaun is still raw in important areas of his game -- he'll need seasoning and time to reach his potential -- but he should be an appealing project if he can make strides as a shooter and decision-maker. -- Woo
15. Miami Heat
Zach Edey
Purdue
C
Age: 21.9
Edey's positional fit alongside Bam Adebayo would be a topic of discussion in Miami, but his productivity, physicality, intensity and team-culture match would be welcomed by the Heat. Adebayo started to slowly incorporate a 3-point shot into his offensive arsenal late this season and has the type of defensive versatility that could be useful alongside another big. Edey's offensive rebounding and interior scoring are skills the Heat lack, making him an attractive pick here. -- Givony
16. Philadelphia 76ers
Devin Carter
Providence
PG/SG
Age: 22.1
Most playoff teams could use the defensive versatility, toughness and developing outside shooting Carter brings, especially on a roster with ample shot creation like the 76ers have with Tyrese Maxey and Joel Embiid. The 2023-24 Big East Player of the Year looks like a plug-and-play option at 22 years old, which will be attractive to several teams drafting in this range. -- Givony
17. Los Angeles Lakers*
Jared McCain
Duke
PG
Age: 20.2
The Pelicans own the rights to this Lakers pick but are expected to defer it to 2025 to receive the pick in what should be a deeper draft. Assuming that's what happens, expect Los Angeles to target an NBA-ready talent who can contribute next season as part of what could be an overhauled roster. McCain's shooting ability, feel for his role and capacity to play both guard positions could fast-track him into minutes somewhere next season after a solid freshman year at Duke, presuming he can hold up defensively early on. -- Woo
18. Orlando Magic
Tristan da Silva
Colorado
SF/PF
Age: 22.9
The Magic ranked among the worst 3-point shooting teams this season and will look to improve in that area this offseason. Da Silva, a plug-and-play option who turns 23 on May 15, brings coveted defensive versatility and feel for the game. He also doesn't need plays called for him, which could be attractive operating alongside existing young stars Franz Wagner and Paolo Banchero. -- Givony
19. Toronto Raptors (via Indiana Pacers)
Kyle Filipowski
Duke
PF/C
Age: 20.5
The Raptors can add size with Filipowski, who has one of the wider ranges among projected first-rounders. His skill level and offensive versatility could make him a unique player if he can improve his perimeter shooting. After making strides defensively last season, he'll likely have to be deployed alongside a rim protector, making him more of a specific fit for teams willing to play with two bigs. His ability to play all over the floor, pass and potentially create mismatches at his size make him intriguing for the long term. -- Woo
20. Cleveland Cavaliers
Tyler Smith
G League Ignite
SF/PF
Age: 19.5
The Cavs don't have a true stretch-4 on the roster and could choose to develop Smith into that mold, following a successful season in the G League that helped clarify his role at the NBA level. Smith likely needs another season to develop physically and get accustomed to the speed of the league, but he looks to be on a positive trajectory. He has plenty of room for growth as a shooter and should be able to pack on strength to his frame, giving him a pathway as a useful role player. -- Woo
21. New Orleans Pelicans (via Milwaukee Bucks)
Yves Missi
Baylor
C
Age: 19.9
New Orleans has a need for more athleticism at the 5, and while Missi would be a project, he might help address that in the long run. Missi's size, tools and flashes of scoring ability piqued enough interest from scouts to vault him into the draft, but there are some lingering questions about his overall feel and lack of high-level experience. He'd likely benefit from G League time, but the right organization might be able to mold him into a useful rim-running big. -- Woo
22. Phoenix Suns
Bobi Klintman
Cairns
SF/PF
Age: 21.1
The Suns traded away most of their draft capital in the coming years to build a superteam anchored around Kevin Durant, Devin Booker and Bradley Beal, so this pick is a rare chance to inject the team with young talent on a cost-controlled rookie scale contract. Wing depth will likely be important for the Suns, especially with perimeter shooting and defensive versatility at a premium. Klintman, who is old enough at 21 to be expected to play a role in the short term, also has some intriguing ingredients to develop long-term with his size, range and defensive playmaking ability. -- Woo
23. Milwaukee Bucks (via New Orleans Pelicans)
Johnny Furphy
Kansas
SG/SF
Age: 19.4
The Bucks will need to continue to space the floor adequately for their superstars, which means continuing to add shooting at every position. A 6-foot-9 wing like Furphy who can make shots while also contributing in the open floor and as a cutter could be interesting both in the short and long term for Milwaukee, which will also likely explore trades if more ready-made players are offered here. -- Givony
24. New York Knicks (via Dallas Mavericks)
Kyshawn George
Miami
SG/SF
Age: 20.4
Teams are all over the board on George, but his shooting, playmaking and feel at his size make him a potential name on the rise in the pre-draft process. He'd be a big upside swing for the Knicks, who have amassed talent nicely and can go several different ways with their picks. George is an interesting gamble, as it's easy to see the role he could fill in the NBA, but he'll need to make a big leap in several key areas -- particularly scoring in the paint. His range could be anywhere from the late lottery to the early second round, depending on how the next month plays out for him. -- Woo
25. New York Knicks
Carlton Carrington
Pittsburgh
PG/SG
Age: 18.8
The Knicks have strong depth and versatility at nearly every position and can afford to take a couple of swings on long-term upside if they decide to keep one or both of their first-round picks. Carrington is one of the youngest players in this draft and will need time to gain strength and add experience before he's ready to play a real role in the NBA, but his positional size, dynamic perimeter shooting and strong basketball instincts make him someone a team in this range could bet on. -- Givony
26. Washington Wizards (via LA Clippers)
Justin Edwards
Kentucky
SG/SF
Age: 20.3
Edwards did not have the season many expected at Kentucky but is still worthy of consideration in this area of the draft at 6-7 with some perimeter shooting acumen and upside to grow into after one season in college. The Wizards could look to bolster their wing depth, which would make Edwards a candidate to get drafted late in the first round. -- Givony
27. Minnesota Timberwolves
Kel'el Ware
Indiana
C
Age: 20.0
Minnesota has found considerable success in the playoffs with its superior size advantage and might want to continue to lean into that strategy by stockpiling frontcourt talent. Ware has tremendous physical ability with his size, length and mobility as well as his ability to stretch the floor and protect the rim in small doses. There could be some parallels drawn between his pathway and the one Sixth Man of the Year Naz Reid is on. -- Givony
28. Denver Nuggets
Tyler Kolek
Marquette
PG
Age: 23.1
The Nuggets, squarely in the midst of a contention window with MVP Nikola Jokic, have not been shy about targeting NBA-ready college players in recent drafts, valuing immediate returns on their late first-round picks. Kolek checks those boxes, with the moxie and pick-and-roll smarts to step in and provide backup minutes. His defense and athletic ability are below average for an NBA guard, but he's extremely competitive, which will help endear him to teams in need of point guard depth. -- Woo
29. Utah Jazz (via Oklahoma City Thunder)
Kevin McCullar Jr.
Kansas
SF
Age: 23.1
McCullar is still dealing with the remnants of a knee injury that derailed the second half of his season, which might make it difficult for him to have as extensive a pre-draft process as teams might hope. Teams that dig into the tape will see McCullar is an excellent defender and passer and was shooting the ball as well as he ever had in his career before getting hurt. -- Givony
30. Boston Celtics
Juan Nunez
Ratiopharm Ulm
PG
Age: 19.9
Boston has an opportunity to affordably shore up its depth with this pick, presumably in search of a player who can help with its current run atop the East. The 19-year-old Nunez has excellent playmaking acumen and has put together a strong season in Germany, giving him a pathway to becoming a viable NBA contributor if he can make shots and defend at a high enough level. -- Woo
*The New Orleans Pelicans have the option to take the Los Angeles Lakers' pick at No. 17 overall or defer it to 2025. They have until June 1 to decide.
SECOND ROUND
31. Toronto Raptors (via Detroit Pistons)
Ryan Dunn | Virginia | SF | Age: 21.3
32. Utah Jazz (via Washington Wizards)
Jaylon Tyson | California | SG/SF | Age: 21.4
33. Milwaukee Bucks (via Portland Trail Blazers)
Terrence Shannon Jr. | Illinois | SG/SF | Age: 23.7
34. Portland Trail Blazers (via Charlotte Hornets)
Harrison Ingram | North Carolina | SF/PF | Age: 21.4
35. San Antonio Spurs
Payton Sandfort | Iowa | SF | Age: 21.8
36. Indiana Pacers (via Toronto Raptors)
Cam Christie | Minnesota | SG | Age: 18.7
37. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Memphis Grizzlies)
Dillon Jones | Weber State | SF/PF | Age: 22.5
38. New York Knicks (via Utah Jazz)
Izan Almansa | G League Ignite | PF/C | Age: 18.8
39. Memphis Grizzlies (via Brooklyn Nets)
Baylor Scheierman | Creighton | SG/SF | Age: 23.6
40. Portland Trail Blazers (via Atlanta Hawks)
Ulrich Chomche | NBA Academy Showcase | C | Age: 18.3
41. Philadelphia 76ers (via Chicago Bulls)
Pacome Dadiet | Ratiopharm Ulm | SG/SF | Age: 18.7
42. Charlotte Hornets (via Houston Rockets)
Alex Karaban | UConn | PF | Age: 21.4
43. Miami Heat
Melvin Ajinca | Saint Quentin | SG/SF | Age: 19.8
44. Houston Rockets (via Golden State Warriors)
Trevon Brazile | Arkansas | PF/C | Age: 21.3
45. Sacramento Kings
Keshad Johnson | Arizona | PF | Age: 22.8
46. LA Clippers (via Indiana Pacers)
Pelle Larsson | Arizona | SG | Age: 23.2
47. Orlando Magic
KJ Simpson | Colorado | PG | Age: 21.7
48. San Antonio Spurs (via Los Angeles Lakers)
Hunter Sallis | Wake Forest | SG | Age: 21.1
49. Indiana Pacers (via Cleveland Cavaliers)
Adem Bona | UCLA | C | Age: 21.1
50. Indiana Pacers (via New Orleans Pelicans)
DaRon Holmes II | Dayton | PF/C | Age: 21.7
51. Washington Wizards (via Phoenix Suns)
Ajay Mitchell | UC Santa Barbara | PG | Age: 21.8
52. Golden State Warriors (via Milwaukee Bucks)
Jaxson Robinson | BYU | SG/SF | Age: 21.4
53. Detroit Pistons (via New York Knicks)
Nikola Durisic | Mega MIS | SG/SF | Age: 20.2
54. Boston Celtics (via Dallas Mavericks)
Jaylen Wells | Washington St. | SG/SF | Age: 20.7
55. Los Angeles Lakers (via LA Clippers)
Jamal Shead | Houston | PG | Age: 21.7
56. Denver Nuggets (via Minnesota Timberwolves)
Jalen Bridges | Baylor | SF | Age: 22.9
57. Memphis Grizzlies (via Oklahoma City Thunder)
Ariel Hukporti | Melbourne | C | Age: 22.0
58. Dallas Mavericks (via Boston Celtics)
Cam Spencer | UConn | SG | Age: 24.0
Note: The Philadelphia 76ers and Phoenix Suns forfeited a 2024 second-round draft pick.
Jonathan Givony is an NBA draft expert and the founder and co-owner of DraftExpress.com, a private scouting and analytics service used by NBA, NCAA and international teams.
Jeremy Woo is an NBA analyst specializing in prospect evaluation and the draft. He was previously a staff writer and draft insider at Sports Illustrated.
