The 2024 NBA draft in New York is a week away (June 26-27 on ABC/ESPN/ESPN+), and the 30 teams are well into their pre-draft process for working out top candidates and narrowing down their draft boards, helping us get a better feel for how the first round, especially, might unfold.
Trade talks are at an early stage but beginning to take shape to an extent as different scenarios are being laid out from NBA decision-makers depending on how the draft evolves.
The Atlanta Hawks, who won the draft lottery to claim the No. 1 pick, seem to be honing in on either Zaccharie Risacher or Donovan Clingan but might have trade opportunities at their disposal on draft night, especially if the San Antonio Spurs are interested in making a deal.
Hawks general manager Landry Fields said Monday the Hawks are currently satisfied with their situation. "Today, we're planning on picking one," Fields said. "I don't think it would be wise for us not to go over scenarios, even ones that may present later on with different teams."
There's still lots left to play out over the coming week, but ranges for players are being solidified as NBA teams voted on the 25 players they'd like to see invited to the Barclays Center green room, with a handful more players to be added still to the 21-player list that has already been revealed.
Draft experts Jonathan Givony and Jeremy Woo considered the draft board and the likely players available at each spot to update the ESPN 2024 NBA mock draft accordingly. Their latest mock, which reflects exhaustive evaluation of the 2024 draft class and considers intel gathered from conversations with scouts and front office personnel, also accounts for picks owed and owned by all 30 teams.
First round
1. Atlanta Hawks
Zaccharie Risacher, SF, Bourg (France) | Age: 19.1
The Hawks casted a wide net through the pre-draft process, aggressively recruiting nearly every prospect in the lottery for workouts while also bringing in players projected outside that range, indicating the team is preparing for different strategies depending on what it learns and potential trade opportunities.
While it appears the Hawks are far from making final decisions, many teams say their intel indicates Risacher remains the favorite at No. 1, partially because of the dual-track flexibility he offers of either remaining competitive next season or tapping into his upside as the type of big, versatile wing that is difficult to acquire outside the draft. The Hawks will bring Risacher in for a workout Wednesday, his first with the team thus far, which should help add clarity regarding his standing.
The Hawks have been unable to bring Alex Sarr in for a workout to this point, but the door remains open for that to potentially happen. Clingan appears to be Risacher's main rival at No. 1. His workout -- where he shot the ball extremely well, showed surprisingly good passing ability operating out of short rolls and was impressive both in film study and in interviews -- helped his draft standing and makes him as possible sleeper selection here, as we've discussed for several weeks.
The status of Atlanta's Trae Young is the big question hovering over the franchise. One option that has been widely discussed among teams is the possibility of the Hawks reacquiring their unprotected 2025 first-round pick from San Antonio (perhaps in a swap for the No. 4 pick), which would give the team far more flexibility for rebuilding. That would currently be difficult to fathom, with their next three draft picks (2025, 2026 swap rights and 2027) owned by the Spurs.
The Hawks worked out Reed Sheppard last week and Clingan before that, two attractive options at No. 4 should they elect to slide back. Atlanta also brought in Matas Buzelis, Cody Williams and Ron Holland for workouts. -- Givony
2. Washington Wizards
Alex Sarr, PF/C, Perth (Australia) | Age: 19.1
Rival teams have largely viewed the Wizards as a landing spot for Risacher or Sarr, depending which direction the Hawks go. That line of thinking has held up so far, although the radio silence out of Washington has some teams still curious about its intentions at No. 2.
That said, Sarr has not yet gone to Atlanta and did work out for Washington last week. The Wizards did quite a bit of homework (and travel) to evaluate him during the course of his season with Perth. Stephon Castle, Clingan, Buzelis and Williams are among the other top prospects that have worked out for the Wizards. Some of those players feel more like contingencies, whether it's via trade, or if Sarr goes No. 1, but the Wizards have done their due diligence.
Washington has the runway available to be patient with Sarr's development, making it a strong fit for him -- and vice versa -- on paper. Sarr arguably has the greatest upside available here, with the physical attributes to be a top defender, as well as the makings of a useful offensive skill set as a finisher and improving floor-spacer. -- Woo
3. Houston Rockets (via Nets)
Reed Sheppard, PG/SG, Kentucky | Age: 19.9
It feels like Sheppard's range of draft outcomes is quite narrow at this point. The Rockets have demonstrated serious interest in him at No. 3, with both the front office and ownership intrigued by his fit as a shooter and playmaker next to their established young talent.
Should Houston decide to trade back or go another direction, San Antonio is also quite intrigued with Sheppard and will be in position to pounce one pick later. He has also worked out for the Hawks (as a trade-back option) and Charlotte Hornets (who are also thought to be fans, and look like his backstop at No. 6), but the odds seem to be in favor of Sheppard relocating to Texas.
Houston has been testing the market for this pick, which holds trade value due in part to the thought that Clingan, who many teams view as a potential trade-up target, will be available if the first two picks go as currently expected. Regardless, Sheppard's shooting ability, intangibles and room for growth as a playmaker have put him in position to be the first guard off the board, completing his ascent from a November curiosity into a full-blown lottery talent. -- Woo
4. San Antonio Spurs
Stephon Castle, PG/SG, UConn | Age: 19.6
If two top targets -- Risacher (who will work out with San Antonio on Friday) and Sheppard (worked out last week) -- are already off the board, it wouldn't be surprising if the Spurs looked to bolster their backcourt with the next two top guard prospects on ESPN's Big Board in Castle and Rob Dillingham with the No. 4 and No. 8 picks.
With Darius Garland unlikely to be attainable from Cleveland, and uncertainty around Trae Young's candidacy, it might make sense to add two top-tier guard prospects who can play in different lineup configurations and roles, especially if the Spurs can secure a commitment from a veteran point guard -- for example, Chris Paul -- to mentor the next generation.
The Spurs -- one of the worst shooting teams in the NBA last season -- need to find ways to better space the floor for Victor Wembanyama next season, which would point to players such as Sheppard, Dillingham and Dalton Knecht, but also have long been enamored with positional size, length and intangibles of prospects such as Castle and, to a lesser extent, Williams.
Castle's defensive versatility, unselfishness and secondary playmaking prowess would be valued additions to the Spurs' lineup provided he can make enough perimeter shots to keep defenses honest. He played an important role in UConn's national championship run, showing a willingness to do the little things needed to help his team win. The 19-year-old has plenty of upside to tap into with strong physical tools. He worked out in San Antonio against Devin Carter last week. -- Givony
5. Detroit Pistons
Matas Buzelis, SF/PF, G League Ignite | Age: 19.6
Buzelis scheduled workouts with Atlanta and Washington, but for weeks now, rival teams have largely viewed Detroit as his likely landing spot. At this point, the Pistons haven't worked out other players who are ticketed for the high lottery, contributing to the idea that Detroit is the probable floor for him.
The Pistons are transitioning under new president of basketball operations Trajan Langdon's leadership, but their interest in Buzelis predated his hiring.
Currently other teams are viewing this as a likely marriage. Buzelis fits Detroit's timeline, positional needs and has the type of size and versatility at forward that Langdon's former group tended to favor (and had success with) during his five years as general manager in New Orleans. -- Woo
6. Charlotte Hornets
Dalton Knecht, SF, Tennessee | Age: 23.1
Knecht's draft range is appearing increasingly small, with teams in the Nos. 4-9 range all expressing significant interest, except Detroit at No. 5.
Charlotte has worked out Knecht, and his fit alongside LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller appears to be strong with the perimeter shooting and all-around scoring prowess he offers. If Knecht isn't picked at No. 6, it might be because a player such as Sheppard or Castle (both of whom Charlotte has worked out) became available.
Rival teams say they would be surprised to see Knecht fall past both Portland and San Antonio at No. 7 and No. 8, where he also seems to be coveted. Buzelis worked out with Charlotte as well, along with Ja'Kobe Walter. -- Givony
7. Portland Trail Blazers
Donovan Clingan, C, UConn | Age: 20.3
Ranked No. 3 in ESPN's Top 100, Clingan is viewed by many rival teams as a legitimate candidate for the Hawks at No. 1, making him a key piece of the puzzle in projecting this draft.
Clingan is also viewed as a potential trade-up target for teams, including the Memphis Grizzlies, which could lead to him coming off the board ahead of this spot. However, the Rockets, Spurs, Pistons and Hornets don't appear to be landing spots for Clingan, so there are also scenarios in which he falls to No. 7.
Portland would presumably be thrilled with that, as Clingan is the best player available and would supply long-term defensive backbone for a team still laying its foundation in the frontcourt. -- Woo
8. San Antonio Spurs
Rob Dillingham, PG, Kentucky | Age: 19.4
Dillingham has been unable to work out for teams for much of the pre-draft process because of an ankle injury; however, he completed his combine testing Friday to cement his eligibility requirements for the draft. His inactivity thus far has caused some speculation around the league that he could fall toward the back of the lottery or out of it, but he's an option for guard-needy San Antonio, particularly if the Spurs are unable to draft his college teammate Reed Sheppard at No 4.
Dillingham will work out for the Spurs on Wednesday, with Detroit lined up, and Utah and Chicago expressing interest. The guard, who played for Chris Paul's Nike EYBL team (Team CP3), has a natural creativity as a scorer, but lack of size and defensive acumen make him a polarizing prospect. He's the type of talent teams are often willing to swing on, particularly the further he falls down the board.
If the Spurs go another direction, the Jazz and Bulls could be landing spots in the late lottery, and if he falls past those teams, it shouldn't be too far. -- Woo
9. Memphis Grizzlies
Cody Williams, SG/SF, Colorado | Age: 19.5
Williams will end up working out for nearly every team in the top 10 (with the exception of Houston), with Memphis being his latest stop this past weekend. Teams outside that range haven't been able to get him in, indicating his camp feels comfortable with where he'll end up and the feedback they've received to this point.
Ranked No. 12 in ESPN's Top 100, Williams has the physical tools every NBA team is looking for at 6-foot-8 in shoes with a 7-1 wingspan. His outstanding early-season play from November through January had some NBA teams wondering if he could make a run at the No. 1 pick prior to him being derailed by injuries.
He's a late bloomer who has shown playmaking, defensive versatility and perimeter shooting that can hopefully be harnessed into more consistent skills down the road, and could be a sleeper pick for a team selecting earlier even, with teams in the Nos. 5-8 range also studying his candidacy closely. He has even worked out in Atlanta, who holds the No. 1 pick. -- Givony
10. Utah Jazz
Nikola Topic, PG, Mega MIS (Adriatic League) | Age: 18.8
Topic was one of 20 players voted into the draft's green room by teams, which is a good sign for his stock stabilizing in the wake of his ACL tear diagnosis at the draft combine in Treviso, Italy. Topic is in the U.S. visiting teams, with Portland (Nos. 7 and 14) San Antonio (No. 8), Memphis (No. 9), Utah (No. 10) being on the schedule.
A team picking him will likely need to be comfortable with the idea of a redshirt season next year with long-term thinking in mind, similar to how Chet Holmgren, Joel Embiid, Michael Porter Jr. or Blake Griffin started their NBA careers. Utah might feel a degree of regret for not going more all-in on positioning themselves for draft picks the past two years and could potentially consider that strategy at some point.
Drafting Topic and trying to make a run at Cooper Flagg next year might not be the worst idea, something that could prove difficult with an All-Star in Lauri Markkanen in the fold and one of the NBA's best young coaches in Will Hardy. -- Givony
11. Chicago Bulls
Devin Carter, PG/SG, Providence | Age: 22.2
Carter has been one of the hottest names on the workout circuit, with some teams now believing he'll come off the board in the top 10. His tenacity, reliability and two-way skill set gives him strong upside for an older guard. Carter, ranked No. 13 in ESPN's Top 100, is known primarily for his defense, but has made significant strides as a scorer in the past year that have helped reframe how teams view his upside.
Teams' confidence in what he supplies has bolstered his draft stock, with every team in the Nos. 8-11 range looking like a possible landing spot.
There's also some chatter that multiple teams currently drafting outside the lottery have interest in trading up to select him. Chicago values toughness in its backcourt and could slot Carter in interchangeably with Coby White, Alex Caruso and Ayo Dosunmu. -- Woo
12. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Rockets)
Tidjane Salaun, PF, Cholet (France) | Age: 18.8
Salaun is one of the tougher lottery prospects to peg in terms of a draft range, as he has had limited time to conduct workouts after recently arriving from Europe. Quite a few teams would like to get to know him better. Salaun, ranked No. 9 in ESPN's Top 100, conducted workouts with Portland, Sacramento and Oklahoma City before spraining his ankle this past weekend in San Antonio, which might prevent him from working out in scheduled visits with Detroit and Charlotte.
Despite that setback, it's hard to find many prospects who share the upside Salaun does at 6-10, with an outstanding frame, length, shot-making prowess and defensive intensity. He is also one of the youngest players in this draft at 18 and will likely need patience and reps to find his footing with the questionable awareness he shows and mistake-prone style he displays on both ends of the floor at times. -- Givony
13. Sacramento Kings
Ron Holland, SF, G League Ignite | Age: 18.9
Sacramento has explored trade options with this pick, but there will be a range of quality players on the board if the Kings stand pat -- they might be content to simply see who falls to No. 13. Holland has worked out for a wide range of teams, from Atlanta at No. 1 down to the Heat at No. 15, and it's still not quite clear where his backstop lies.
Presuming the Kings are on track to retain Malik Monk and maintain their backcourt, taking a swing on a wing such as Holland or a frontcourt player could be a smart direction.
Landing on a Sacramento team with established talent and roles, which won't ask Holland to be an offensive focal point, could be ideal long term for his game. That move would allow Holland to get back to his roots as a tough defender and high-energy contributor. -- Woo
14. Portland Trail Blazers (via Warriors)
Ja'Kobe Walter, SG/SF, Baylor | Age: 19.7
Walter, ranked No. 14 in ESPN's Top 100, has kept a pretty low profile during the pre-draft process, mostly conducting one-on-zero workouts in places such as Detroit, Charlotte, San Antonio, Utah and Sacramento. He was among the first 12 players invited to the draft green room, which is a positive sign for his standing among teams.
Walter's combination of length, dynamic shot-making prowess, intensity, youth and outstanding off-court intangibles give him both a high floor and an attractive archetype every team is looking for with a 3-and-D wing with upside to grow.
He's likely to get looks from all the teams in the mid-to-late lottery looking for wing depth, and he'll have plenty of suitors in the teens hoping he falls to them. -- Givony
15. Miami Heat
Zach Edey, C, Purdue | Age: 22.0
Edey, ranked No. 16 in ESPN's Top 100, is drawing interest from teams that are drafting in front and behind Miami, with every team in the back half of the lottery after San Antonio said to be in the market for a center. Utah, Portland and Sacramento were some of his latest stops on the workout circuit, and he might end up visiting the Los Angeles Lakers as well.
Edey's combination of size, power and intensity has been difficult to contain in a workout setting, as there simply aren't many players in this draft equipped to slow him down.
He was one of 21 players voted by NBA teams for an invitation to the green room, but has decided he will watch the draft from West Lafayette, Indiana instead with his coaches, teammates and family. He is the only player to decline the in-person opportunity. -- Givony
16. Philadelphia 76ers
Jared McCain, PG, Duke | Age: 20.3
McCain appears to be firmly inside the top 20 at this point, earning a green room invitation and having enjoyed a positive pre-draft process. There's interest in him from teams in the late lottery, and the Heat, 76ers and Lakers are all possibilities, creating what looks like a narrow range.
As an excellent shooter with impressive intangibles that have bolstered his case in the short and long term, McCain is well-prepared for an NBA adjustment and could be on a faster track to making an impact than your typical freshman. His ability to play both backcourt spots intelligently and provide immediate spacing has plenty of appeal to any team in need of shooting or guard depth.
If the 76ers keep this pick -- which they may instead use as a trade chip -- that type of skill set would make a lot of sense next to Tyrese Maxey. -- Woo
17. Los Angeles Lakers
Tristan Da Silva, SF/PF, Colorado | Age: 23.0
Da Silva was a surprising omission from the NBA's early gree room list, but he may still earn an invitation, with firm interest in inside the top 20. He has interest as high as Memphis at No. 9, but will likely fall into the next range, where an array of playoff-caliber teams, including the Kings, Heat, Sixers, and Lakers, are all interested in his services.
Da Silva's versatility at either forward spot on both ends and reliable 3-point shooting give him a good pathway to minutes next season, although his ceiling isn't perceived quite as high as some of the younger players in this range. -- Woo
18. Orlando Magic
Johnny Furphy, SG/SF, Kansas | Age: 19.5
Furphy was one of 21 players to receive an invite to the draft's green room, which was not particularly surprising as he is drawing strong interest, starting with Memphis at No. 9, extending throughout the teens and ending with Cleveland at No. 20.
Furphy's size at 6-9 and multipositional versatility operating in different lineup configurations makes him an attractive target for the many teams in that range that are looking for shooting, including Chicago at No. 11, Sacramento at No. 13, Philadelphia at No. 16, Orlando at No. 18 and Toronto at No. 19.
Ranked No. 18 in ESPN's Top 100, Furphy brings toughness, activity and youth, with the upside to grow thanks to his steep development trajectory. -- Givony
19. Toronto Raptors (via Pacers)
Kyshawn George, SG/SF, Miami | Age: 20.5
Which direction the Raptors decide to go with this pick might indicate how much longer they intend to retool, entering what might be more of a transition season due to the youth of their roster. George would be a long-view pick, and appears to be trending as a top-20 selection after earning a green-room invite.
He has interest starting in the late lottery down into the 20s, but also has a bit of a wide range. George, ranked No. 19 in ESPN's Top 100, will have a big adjustment ahead in terms of physicality, and teams have some concern about his struggles getting to the rim and competing on the defensive end. However, big wings who are playmakers, can handle and shoot are always attractive to develop.
His blend of size, guard skills and perimeter shooting gives him a good developmental blueprint, but he's a pick that will likely take some time to bear out. -- Woo
20. Cleveland Cavaliers
Carlton Carrington, PG/SG, Pittsburgh | Age: 18.9
Carrington was not in the group of 21 players receiving an invite to the draft, but he could end up being one of the final four or so players to get a nod later this week, as he's in the conversation for teams earlier than this pick.
He has been visiting teams primarily in the Nos. 10-to-20 range, with franchises looking for point guards such as Utah, Miami and Orlando being especially interesting landing spots. The week prior to the draft might see teams in different ranges travel to watch him in Dallas to prepare for alternative contingencies, including trade scenarios that could shake up the draft order.
Carrington's upside stands out as one of the youngest players in the draft, who was able to carve out a significant role in the ACC showing off his talent as a plus-sized ballhandling guard who can shoot off the bounce and pass off a live dribble. He brings intensity defensively despite his lack of strength and high-end explosiveness.
Carrington, ranked No. 20 in ESPN's Top 100, will need time and seasoning to be ready to play meaningful NBA minutes, but his youth, versatility and feel for the game gives him a high ceiling in a draft lacking somewhat in that department. -- Givony
21. New Orleans Pelicans (via Bucks)
Yves Missi, C, Baylor | Age: 20.0
Missi earned a green-room invite and is in the mix for a range of teams in need of long-term help at center, with the Lakers, Pelicans and Bucks all shaping up among potential landing spots. He has been a popular name on the workout circuit, and has helped prove himself head-to-head against other bigs in this range, and in turn, generating confidence that he can handle the amount of physical, demanding work he'll be asked to do to succeed in the NBA.
His athletic profile and room for development at an early stage of his career have made him intriguing as someone who can play a useful rim-running style in time. Addressing the center position, with Jonas Valanciunas headed to free agency, will be an offseason priority for New Orleans as it tinkers with the personnel around Zion Williamson. -- Woo
22. Phoenix Suns
Tyler Kolek, PG, Marquette | Age: 23.2
Kolek, ranked No. 26 in ESPN's Top 100, has been one of the big risers of the pre-draft process, putting his unique blend of toughness, skill, experience and feel for the game in every pre-draft workout he's been at thus far.
He has worked out for teams picking as high as the mid-to-late lottery (San Antonio, Utah), and has fans throughout the teens portion of the draft, ending with Orlando and Toronto at No. 18 and No. 19. The success of older, physically underwhelming point guards such as Jalen Brunson and T.J. McConnell seem to be causing teams to look at players like Kolek in a different light.
The Suns, where Kolek is headed for a workout later this week, are viewed as an especially interesting destination considering their lack of depth at the point guard position and need for an experienced playmaker who can operate on and off the ball. -- Givony
23. Milwaukee Bucks (via Pelicans)
Kel'el Ware, C, Indiana | Age: 20.1
Ware was viewed to be building solid momentum in the pre-draft process but wasn't among the 21 players voted by teams into the draft green room, something that could still change once the final wave of invites is released later this week.
He has casted a wide net in workouts thus far, conducting more than a dozen to this point with teams ranging from the late lottery to the end of the first round. Milwaukee, a team he visited, has a clear need at center, with Brook Lopez, 36, entering the final season of his contract, and Bobby Portis able to opt out next summer.
Ware's ability to both pop or roll gives him coveted flexibility he can tap into, along with his solid rebounding and shot-blocking prowess. At 7-1, talent is certainly not a question mark for the 20-year-old, making him a solid value play for any of the teams picking in this range. -- Givony
24. New York Knicks (via Mavericks)
Kyle Filipowski, PF/C, Duke | Age: 20.6
Filipowski appears to have a wide range on draft night, as he appears to be firmly in the conversation for several teams picking in the teens while other teams in the 20s say they expect him to be available when they pick.
Being among the 21 players voted by teams into the draft night green room was a good sign for his standing, as there will almost certainly be a market for a player with his skill set at some point in the first round. Filipowski's ability to handle, pass and shoot is difficult to come by at 7-foot, and the dearth of versatile bigs who can play inside and out will surely be attractive to a team picking in this range -- should he fall this far.
Most teams don't expect the Knicks to keep both of their first-round picks, meaning this selection might very well end up in another team's hands. Trading one of their two picks for a future first-rounder would likely help for trade flexibility down the road, but it remains to be seen what the market will look like on draft night, as picks in the early second round are being viewed as valuable ones due to the salary cap and luxury tax flexibility they offer. -- Givony
25. New York Knicks
Ryan Dunn, SF/PF, Virginia | Age: 21.4
The Knicks are among the teams believed to be highest on Dunn long-term, due to his defensive versatility and knack for creating turnovers and blocking shots on the wing. His poor jump shooting and wavering confidence as a scorer will be something he'll have to work to overcome, but he has showcased his strengths on the workout circuit and has left room for optimism around his long-term chances of offensive growth.
The Knicks, with a defensive-minded coach in Tom Thibodeau, are likely to value the unique production and tools the No. 34 prospect in ESPN's Top 100 brings to the table, and might be more interested than most in being patient with Dunn (who is a Long Island native) as he comes along offensively.
Rival teams expect New York may trade one of these picks in the 20s, so it's possible another team selects for the Knicks here. -- Woo
26. Washington Wizards (via Clippers)
Isaiah Collier, PG, USC | Age: 19.6
While it seems unlikely at this point that Collier, once viewed as a top prospect in this class and now ranked No. 22 in ESPN's Top 100, comes off the board in the lottery, he did receive a green-room invitation and now represents an interesting value pick for teams that can swing on his playmaking talent.
Collier does have interest from teams in the late lottery, but there are realistic scenarios in which he falls toward the back of the first round. It can be difficult for competitive teams to find minutes for a point guard whose key areas for improvement are decision-making and long-range shooting -- logically, Collier might need G League time, particularly if he lands with a playoff-level team. He is a gifted athlete and passer with good size on the ball.
Drafting a talent such as Collier in this back part of the first round would be terrific value for the Wizards if he slides to No. 26. -- Woo
27. Minnesota Timberwolves
Terrence Shannon Jr., SG/SF, Illinois | Age: 23.8
Shannon was acquitted last week and found not guilty of rape and sexual battery charges, a case NBA teams had been following closely. The clarity offered by the court ruling should put front offices and ownership groups at ease, and re-opens a path for Shannon back into the first round, where he will now conduct workouts for a handful of teams going into draft night.
It's quite possible Shannon hears his name called well before this pick at No. 27, with many teams in the top 25 expressing interest and an opportunity to work his way up the board in the days to come. His athletic tools have always been NBA-caliber, but his development at Illinois into a more consistent two-way contributor helped raise the perception around his floor as a useful rotation player.
A playoff-caliber team like the Timberwolves might be excited to see him fall here. -- Woo
28. Denver Nuggets
DaRon Holmes II, PF/C, Dayton | Age: 21.8
Most NBA teams are operating under the assumption Holmes has received a promise from the Nuggets, although it is possible the team might attempt to trade down a few spots into the second round to draft him for financial reasons.
Holmes canceled a half-dozen workouts shortly after the NCAA withdrawal deadline, with several smoking guns pointing in Denver's direction, a scenario that is similar to what we saw play out last year with Jalen Pickett. -- Givony
29. Utah Jazz (via Thunder)
Baylor Scheierman, SG/SF, Creighton | Age: 23.7
Many teams expect Scheierman to come off the draft board in the 20s, with his mix of shooting, craftiness and positional size likely to make him immediately useful coming off an NBA bench.
The No. 25 ranked prospect in ESPN's Top 100 has workouts scheduled with Utah, New Orleans and Denver in the coming days. The Jazz can go a variety of directions with three picks in the first 32 selections, and should have the ability to balance drafting for need as well as long-term upside. In this scenario, after taking the long view with Topic at No. 10, a more rotation-ready option such as Scheierman makes sense here. -- Woo
30. Boston Celtics
Pacome Dadiet, SG/SF, Ratiopharm Ulm | Age: 18.8
Dadiet, ranked No. 29 in ESPN's Top 100, elected to remain in the draft at the NBA's withdrawal deadline Sunday, a sign he is receiving positive enough feedback to feel comfortable with where he might end up being drafted.
Utah and Boston are some of the teams connected with Dadiet at the end of the first round, and he is also expected to visit Orlando, Miami, Philadelphia, San Antonio, Milwaukee and Brooklyn in his short time in the U.S. due to his mandatory appearance at the draft combine in Treviso, Italy the first week of June.
Dadiet's combination of size (6-9), youth and shot-making prowess gives him an interesting upside to grow into long-term, something that could be attractive at this stage of the draft. -- Givony
ROUND 2
31. Toronto Raptors (via Pistons)
Jaylon Tyson, SG/SF, California | Age: 21.5
32. Utah Jazz (via Wizards)
Bobi Klintman, SF/PF, Cairns (Australia) | Age: 21.2
33. Milwaukee Bucks (via Trail Blazers)
Tyler Smith, SF/PF, G League Ignite | Age: 19.6
34. Portland Trail Blazers (via Hornets)
Cam Christie, SG, Minnesota | Age: 18.8
35. San Antonio Spurs
Juan Nunez, PG, Ratiopharm Ulm (Germany) | Age: 20.0
36. Indiana Pacers (via Raptors)
A.J. Johnson, SG, Illawarra (Australia) | Age: 19.5
37. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Grizzlies)
Adem Bona, C, UCLA | Age: 21.2
38. New York Knicks (via Jazz)
Kevin McCullar, SF, Kansas | Age: 23.2
39. Memphis Grizzlies (via Nets)
Justin Edwards, SG/SF, Kentucky | Age: 20.4
40. Portland Trail Blazers (via Hawks)
Melvin Ajinca, SG/SF, Saint Quentin (France) | Age: 19.9
41. Philadelphia 76ers (via Bulls)
Pelle Larsson, SG, Arizona | Age: 23.3
42. Charlotte Hornets (via Rockets)
Jonathan Mogbo, PF/C, San Francisco | Age: 22.6
43. Miami Heat
Jamal Shead, PG, Houston | Age: 21.8
44. Houston Rockets (via Warriors)
Ulrich Chomche, PF/C, NBA Academy Showcase (Africa) | Age: 18.4
45. Sacramento Kings
Harrison Ingram, SF/PF, North Carolina | Age: 21.5
46. LA Clippers (via Pacers)
Ajay Mitchell, PG, UC Santa Barbara | Age: 21.9
47. Orlando Magic
Jaylen Wells, SG/SF, Washington State | Age: 20.8
48. San Antonio Spurs (via Lakers)
Cam Spencer, SG, UConn | Age: 24.1
49. Indiana Pacers (via Cavaliers)
Nikola Djurisic, SG/SF, Mega MIS (Adriatic League) | Age: 20.3
50. Indiana Pacers (via Pelicans)
Dillon Jones, SF/PF, Weber State | Age: 22.6
51. Washington Wizards (via Suns)
Keshad Johnson, PF, Arizona | Age: 22.9
52. Golden State Warriors (via Bucks)
KJ Simpson, PG, Colorado | Age: 21.8
53. Detroit Pistons (via Knicks)
Jalen Bridges, SF, Baylor | Age: 23.0
54. Boston Celtics (via Mavericks)
Antonio Reeves, SG/SF, Kentucky | Age: 23.5
55. Los Angeles Lakers (via Clippers)
Bronny James, PG/SG, USC | Age: 19.6
56. Denver Nuggets (via Timberwolves)
Oso Ighodaro, PF/C, Marquette | Age: 21.9
57. Memphis Grizzlies (via Thunder)
Enrique Freeman, PF/C, Akron | Age: 23.8
58. Dallas Mavericks (via Celtics)
Trentyn Flowers, SG/SF, Adelaide (Australia) | Age: 19.2
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 2024 NBA draft in New York is a week away (June 26-27 on ABC/ESPN/ESPN+), and the 30 teams are well into their pre-draft process for working out top candidates and narrowing down their draft boards, helping us get a better feel for how the first round, especially, might unfold.
Trade talks are at an early stage but beginning to take shape to an extent as different scenarios are being laid out from NBA decision-makers depending on how the draft evolves.
The Atlanta Hawks, who won the draft lottery to claim the No. 1 pick, seem to be honing in on either Zaccharie Risacher or Donovan Clingan but might have trade opportunities at their disposal on draft night, especially if the San Antonio Spurs are interested in making a deal.
Hawks general manager Landry Fields said Monday the Hawks are currently satisfied with their situation. "Today, we're planning on picking one," Fields said. "I don't think it would be wise for us not to go over scenarios, even ones that may present later on with different teams."
There's still lots left to play out over the coming week, but ranges for players are being solidified as NBA teams voted on the 25 players they'd like to see invited to the Barclays Center green room, with a handful more players to be added still to the 21-player list that has already been revealed.
Draft experts Jonathan Givony and Jeremy Woo considered the draft board and the likely players available at each spot to update the ESPN 2024 NBA mock draft accordingly. Their latest mock, which reflects exhaustive evaluation of the 2024 draft class and considers intel gathered from conversations with scouts and front office personnel, also accounts for picks owed and owned by all 30 teams.
First round
1. Atlanta Hawks
Zaccharie Risacher, SF, Bourg (France) | Age: 19.1
The Hawks casted a wide net through the pre-draft process, aggressively recruiting nearly every prospect in the lottery for workouts while also bringing in players projected outside that range, indicating the team is preparing for different strategies depending on what it learns and potential trade opportunities.
While it appears the Hawks are far from making final decisions, many teams say their intel indicates Risacher remains the favorite at No. 1, partially because of the dual-track flexibility he offers of either remaining competitive next season or tapping into his upside as the type of big, versatile wing that is difficult to acquire outside the draft. The Hawks will bring Risacher in for a workout Wednesday, his first with the team thus far, which should help add clarity regarding his standing.
The Hawks have been unable to bring Alex Sarr in for a workout to this point, but the door remains open for that to potentially happen. Clingan appears to be Risacher's main rival at No. 1. His workout -- where he shot the ball extremely well, showed surprisingly good passing ability operating out of short rolls and was impressive both in film study and in interviews -- helped his draft standing and makes him as possible sleeper selection here, as we've discussed for several weeks.
The status of Atlanta's Trae Young is the big question hovering over the franchise. One option that has been widely discussed among teams is the possibility of the Hawks reacquiring their unprotected 2025 first-round pick from San Antonio (perhaps in a swap for the No. 4 pick), which would give the team far more flexibility for rebuilding. That would currently be difficult to fathom, with their next three draft picks (2025, 2026 swap rights and 2027) owned by the Spurs.
The Hawks worked out Reed Sheppard last week and Clingan before that, two attractive options at No. 4 should they elect to slide back. Atlanta also brought in Matas Buzelis, Cody Williams and Ron Holland for workouts. -- Givony
2. Washington Wizards
Alex Sarr, PF/C, Perth (Australia) | Age: 19.1
Rival teams have largely viewed the Wizards as a landing spot for Risacher or Sarr, depending which direction the Hawks go. That line of thinking has held up so far, although the radio silence out of Washington has some teams still curious about its intentions at No. 2.
That said, Sarr has not yet gone to Atlanta and did work out for Washington last week. The Wizards did quite a bit of homework (and travel) to evaluate him during the course of his season with Perth. Stephon Castle, Clingan, Buzelis and Williams are among the other top prospects that have worked out for the Wizards. Some of those players feel more like contingencies, whether it's via trade, or if Sarr goes No. 1, but the Wizards have done their due diligence.
Washington has the runway available to be patient with Sarr's development, making it a strong fit for him -- and vice versa -- on paper. Sarr arguably has the greatest upside available here, with the physical attributes to be a top defender, as well as the makings of a useful offensive skill set as a finisher and improving floor-spacer. -- Woo
3. Houston Rockets (via Nets)
Reed Sheppard, PG/SG, Kentucky | Age: 19.9
It feels like Sheppard's range of draft outcomes is quite narrow at this point. The Rockets have demonstrated serious interest in him at No. 3, with both the front office and ownership intrigued by his fit as a shooter and playmaker next to their established young talent.
Should Houston decide to trade back or go another direction, San Antonio is also quite intrigued with Sheppard and will be in position to pounce one pick later. He has also worked out for the Hawks (as a trade-back option) and Charlotte Hornets (who are also thought to be fans, and look like his backstop at No. 6), but the odds seem to be in favor of Sheppard relocating to Texas.
Houston has been testing the market for this pick, which holds trade value due in part to the thought that Clingan, who many teams view as a potential trade-up target, will be available if the first two picks go as currently expected. Regardless, Sheppard's shooting ability, intangibles and room for growth as a playmaker have put him in position to be the first guard off the board, completing his ascent from a November curiosity into a full-blown lottery talent. -- Woo
4. San Antonio Spurs
Stephon Castle, PG/SG, UConn | Age: 19.6
If two top targets -- Risacher (who will work out with San Antonio on Friday) and Sheppard (worked out last week) -- are already off the board, it wouldn't be surprising if the Spurs looked to bolster their backcourt with the next two top guard prospects on ESPN's Big Board in Castle and Rob Dillingham with the No. 4 and No. 8 picks.
With Darius Garland unlikely to be attainable from Cleveland, and uncertainty around Trae Young's candidacy, it might make sense to add two top-tier guard prospects who can play in different lineup configurations and roles, especially if the Spurs can secure a commitment from a veteran point guard -- for example, Chris Paul -- to mentor the next generation.
The Spurs -- one of the worst shooting teams in the NBA last season -- need to find ways to better space the floor for Victor Wembanyama next season, which would point to players such as Sheppard, Dillingham and Dalton Knecht, but also have long been enamored with positional size, length and intangibles of prospects such as Castle and, to a lesser extent, Williams.
Castle's defensive versatility, unselfishness and secondary playmaking prowess would be valued additions to the Spurs' lineup provided he can make enough perimeter shots to keep defenses honest. He played an important role in UConn's national championship run, showing a willingness to do the little things needed to help his team win. The 19-year-old has plenty of upside to tap into with strong physical tools. He worked out in San Antonio against Devin Carter last week. -- Givony
5. Detroit Pistons
Matas Buzelis, SF/PF, G League Ignite | Age: 19.6
Buzelis scheduled workouts with Atlanta and Washington, but for weeks now, rival teams have largely viewed Detroit as his likely landing spot. At this point, the Pistons haven't worked out other players who are ticketed for the high lottery, contributing to the idea that Detroit is the probable floor for him.
The Pistons are transitioning under new president of basketball operations Trajan Langdon's leadership, but their interest in Buzelis predated his hiring.
Currently other teams are viewing this as a likely marriage. Buzelis fits Detroit's timeline, positional needs and has the type of size and versatility at forward that Langdon's former group tended to favor (and had success with) during his five years as general manager in New Orleans. -- Woo
6. Charlotte Hornets
Dalton Knecht, SF, Tennessee | Age: 23.1
Knecht's draft range is appearing increasingly small, with teams in the Nos. 4-9 range all expressing significant interest, except Detroit at No. 5.
Charlotte has worked out Knecht, and his fit alongside LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller appears to be strong with the perimeter shooting and all-around scoring prowess he offers. If Knecht isn't picked at No. 6, it might be because a player such as Sheppard or Castle (both of whom Charlotte has worked out) became available.
Rival teams say they would be surprised to see Knecht fall past both Portland and San Antonio at No. 7 and No. 8, where he also seems to be coveted. Buzelis worked out with Charlotte as well, along with Ja'Kobe Walter. -- Givony
7. Portland Trail Blazers
Donovan Clingan, C, UConn | Age: 20.3
Ranked No. 3 in ESPN's Top 100, Clingan is viewed by many rival teams as a legitimate candidate for the Hawks at No. 1, making him a key piece of the puzzle in projecting this draft.
Clingan is also viewed as a potential trade-up target for teams, including the Memphis Grizzlies, which could lead to him coming off the board ahead of this spot. However, the Rockets, Spurs, Pistons and Hornets don't appear to be landing spots for Clingan, so there are also scenarios in which he falls to No. 7.
Portland would presumably be thrilled with that, as Clingan is the best player available and would supply long-term defensive backbone for a team still laying its foundation in the frontcourt. -- Woo
8. San Antonio Spurs
Rob Dillingham, PG, Kentucky | Age: 19.4
Dillingham has been unable to work out for teams for much of the pre-draft process because of an ankle injury; however, he completed his combine testing Friday to cement his eligibility requirements for the draft. His inactivity thus far has caused some speculation around the league that he could fall toward the back of the lottery or out of it, but he's an option for guard-needy San Antonio, particularly if the Spurs are unable to draft his college teammate Reed Sheppard at No 4.
Dillingham will work out for the Spurs on Wednesday, with Detroit lined up, and Utah and Chicago expressing interest. The guard, who played for Chris Paul's Nike EYBL team (Team CP3), has a natural creativity as a scorer, but lack of size and defensive acumen make him a polarizing prospect. He's the type of talent teams are often willing to swing on, particularly the further he falls down the board.
If the Spurs go another direction, the Jazz and Bulls could be landing spots in the late lottery, and if he falls past those teams, it shouldn't be too far. -- Woo
9. Memphis Grizzlies
Cody Williams, SG/SF, Colorado | Age: 19.5
Williams will end up working out for nearly every team in the top 10 (with the exception of Houston), with Memphis being his latest stop this past weekend. Teams outside that range haven't been able to get him in, indicating his camp feels comfortable with where he'll end up and the feedback they've received to this point.
Ranked No. 12 in ESPN's Top 100, Williams has the physical tools every NBA team is looking for at 6-foot-8 in shoes with a 7-1 wingspan. His outstanding early-season play from November through January had some NBA teams wondering if he could make a run at the No. 1 pick prior to him being derailed by injuries.
He's a late bloomer who has shown playmaking, defensive versatility and perimeter shooting that can hopefully be harnessed into more consistent skills down the road, and could be a sleeper pick for a team selecting earlier even, with teams in the Nos. 5-8 range also studying his candidacy closely. He has even worked out in Atlanta, who holds the No. 1 pick. -- Givony
10. Utah Jazz
Nikola Topic, PG, Mega MIS (Adriatic League) | Age: 18.8
Topic was one of 20 players voted into the draft's green room by teams, which is a good sign for his stock stabilizing in the wake of his ACL tear diagnosis at the draft combine in Treviso, Italy. Topic is in the U.S. visiting teams, with Portland (Nos. 7 and 14) San Antonio (No. 8), Memphis (No. 9), Utah (No. 10) being on the schedule.
A team picking him will likely need to be comfortable with the idea of a redshirt season next year with long-term thinking in mind, similar to how Chet Holmgren, Joel Embiid, Michael Porter Jr. or Blake Griffin started their NBA careers. Utah might feel a degree of regret for not going more all-in on positioning themselves for draft picks the past two years and could potentially consider that strategy at some point.
Drafting Topic and trying to make a run at Cooper Flagg next year might not be the worst idea, something that could prove difficult with an All-Star in Lauri Markkanen in the fold and one of the NBA's best young coaches in Will Hardy. -- Givony
11. Chicago Bulls
Devin Carter, PG/SG, Providence | Age: 22.2
Carter has been one of the hottest names on the workout circuit, with some teams now believing he'll come off the board in the top 10. His tenacity, reliability and two-way skill set gives him strong upside for an older guard. Carter, ranked No. 13 in ESPN's Top 100, is known primarily for his defense, but has made significant strides as a scorer in the past year that have helped reframe how teams view his upside.
Teams' confidence in what he supplies has bolstered his draft stock, with every team in the Nos. 8-11 range looking like a possible landing spot.
There's also some chatter that multiple teams currently drafting outside the lottery have interest in trading up to select him. Chicago values toughness in its backcourt and could slot Carter in interchangeably with Coby White, Alex Caruso and Ayo Dosunmu. -- Woo
12. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Rockets)
Tidjane Salaun, PF, Cholet (France) | Age: 18.8
Salaun is one of the tougher lottery prospects to peg in terms of a draft range, as he has had limited time to conduct workouts after recently arriving from Europe. Quite a few teams would like to get to know him better. Salaun, ranked No. 9 in ESPN's Top 100, conducted workouts with Portland, Sacramento and Oklahoma City before spraining his ankle this past weekend in San Antonio, which might prevent him from working out in scheduled visits with Detroit and Charlotte.
Despite that setback, it's hard to find many prospects who share the upside Salaun does at 6-10, with an outstanding frame, length, shot-making prowess and defensive intensity. He is also one of the youngest players in this draft at 18 and will likely need patience and reps to find his footing with the questionable awareness he shows and mistake-prone style he displays on both ends of the floor at times. -- Givony
13. Sacramento Kings
Ron Holland, SF, G League Ignite | Age: 18.9
Sacramento has explored trade options with this pick, but there will be a range of quality players on the board if the Kings stand pat -- they might be content to simply see who falls to No. 13. Holland has worked out for a wide range of teams, from Atlanta at No. 1 down to the Heat at No. 15, and it's still not quite clear where his backstop lies.
Presuming the Kings are on track to retain Malik Monk and maintain their backcourt, taking a swing on a wing such as Holland or a frontcourt player could be a smart direction.
Landing on a Sacramento team with established talent and roles, which won't ask Holland to be an offensive focal point, could be ideal long term for his game. That move would allow Holland to get back to his roots as a tough defender and high-energy contributor. -- Woo
14. Portland Trail Blazers (via Warriors)
Ja'Kobe Walter, SG/SF, Baylor | Age: 19.7
Walter, ranked No. 14 in ESPN's Top 100, has kept a pretty low profile during the pre-draft process, mostly conducting one-on-zero workouts in places such as Detroit, Charlotte, San Antonio, Utah and Sacramento. He was among the first 12 players invited to the draft green room, which is a positive sign for his standing among teams.
Walter's combination of length, dynamic shot-making prowess, intensity, youth and outstanding off-court intangibles give him both a high floor and an attractive archetype every team is looking for with a 3-and-D wing with upside to grow.
He's likely to get looks from all the teams in the mid-to-late lottery looking for wing depth, and he'll have plenty of suitors in the teens hoping he falls to them. -- Givony
15. Miami Heat
Zach Edey, C, Purdue | Age: 22.0
Edey, ranked No. 16 in ESPN's Top 100, is drawing interest from teams that are drafting in front and behind Miami, with every team in the back half of the lottery after San Antonio said to be in the market for a center. Utah, Portland and Sacramento were some of his latest stops on the workout circuit, and he might end up visiting the Los Angeles Lakers as well.
Edey's combination of size, power and intensity has been difficult to contain in a workout setting, as there simply aren't many players in this draft equipped to slow him down.
He was one of 21 players voted by NBA teams for an invitation to the green room, but has decided he will watch the draft from West Lafayette, Indiana instead with his coaches, teammates and family. He is the only player to decline the in-person opportunity. -- Givony
16. Philadelphia 76ers
Jared McCain, PG, Duke | Age: 20.3
McCain appears to be firmly inside the top 20 at this point, earning a green room invitation and having enjoyed a positive pre-draft process. There's interest in him from teams in the late lottery, and the Heat, 76ers and Lakers are all possibilities, creating what looks like a narrow range.
As an excellent shooter with impressive intangibles that have bolstered his case in the short and long term, McCain is well-prepared for an NBA adjustment and could be on a faster track to making an impact than your typical freshman. His ability to play both backcourt spots intelligently and provide immediate spacing has plenty of appeal to any team in need of shooting or guard depth.
If the 76ers keep this pick -- which they may instead use as a trade chip -- that type of skill set would make a lot of sense next to Tyrese Maxey. -- Woo
17. Los Angeles Lakers
Tristan Da Silva, SF/PF, Colorado | Age: 23.0
Da Silva was a surprising omission from the NBA's early gree room list, but he may still earn an invitation, with firm interest in inside the top 20. He has interest as high as Memphis at No. 9, but will likely fall into the next range, where an array of playoff-caliber teams, including the Kings, Heat, Sixers, and Lakers, are all interested in his services.
Da Silva's versatility at either forward spot on both ends and reliable 3-point shooting give him a good pathway to minutes next season, although his ceiling isn't perceived quite as high as some of the younger players in this range. -- Woo
18. Orlando Magic
Johnny Furphy, SG/SF, Kansas | Age: 19.5
Furphy was one of 21 players to receive an invite to the draft's green room, which was not particularly surprising as he is drawing strong interest, starting with Memphis at No. 9, extending throughout the teens and ending with Cleveland at No. 20.
Furphy's size at 6-9 and multipositional versatility operating in different lineup configurations makes him an attractive target for the many teams in that range that are looking for shooting, including Chicago at No. 11, Sacramento at No. 13, Philadelphia at No. 16, Orlando at No. 18 and Toronto at No. 19.
Ranked No. 18 in ESPN's Top 100, Furphy brings toughness, activity and youth, with the upside to grow thanks to his steep development trajectory. -- Givony
19. Toronto Raptors (via Pacers)
Kyshawn George, SG/SF, Miami | Age: 20.5
Which direction the Raptors decide to go with this pick might indicate how much longer they intend to retool, entering what might be more of a transition season due to the youth of their roster. George would be a long-view pick, and appears to be trending as a top-20 selection after earning a green-room invite.
He has interest starting in the late lottery down into the 20s, but also has a bit of a wide range. George, ranked No. 19 in ESPN's Top 100, will have a big adjustment ahead in terms of physicality, and teams have some concern about his struggles getting to the rim and competing on the defensive end. However, big wings who are playmakers, can handle and shoot are always attractive to develop.
His blend of size, guard skills and perimeter shooting gives him a good developmental blueprint, but he's a pick that will likely take some time to bear out. -- Woo
20. Cleveland Cavaliers
Carlton Carrington, PG/SG, Pittsburgh | Age: 18.9
Carrington was not in the group of 21 players receiving an invite to the draft, but he could end up being one of the final four or so players to get a nod later this week, as he's in the conversation for teams earlier than this pick.
He has been visiting teams primarily in the Nos. 10-to-20 range, with franchises looking for point guards such as Utah, Miami and Orlando being especially interesting landing spots. The week prior to the draft might see teams in different ranges travel to watch him in Dallas to prepare for alternative contingencies, including trade scenarios that could shake up the draft order.
Carrington's upside stands out as one of the youngest players in the draft, who was able to carve out a significant role in the ACC showing off his talent as a plus-sized ballhandling guard who can shoot off the bounce and pass off a live dribble. He brings intensity defensively despite his lack of strength and high-end explosiveness.
Carrington, ranked No. 20 in ESPN's Top 100, will need time and seasoning to be ready to play meaningful NBA minutes, but his youth, versatility and feel for the game gives him a high ceiling in a draft lacking somewhat in that department. -- Givony
21. New Orleans Pelicans (via Bucks)
Yves Missi, C, Baylor | Age: 20.0
Missi earned a green-room invite and is in the mix for a range of teams in need of long-term help at center, with the Lakers, Pelicans and Bucks all shaping up among potential landing spots. He has been a popular name on the workout circuit, and has helped prove himself head-to-head against other bigs in this range, and in turn, generating confidence that he can handle the amount of physical, demanding work he'll be asked to do to succeed in the NBA.
His athletic profile and room for development at an early stage of his career have made him intriguing as someone who can play a useful rim-running style in time. Addressing the center position, with Jonas Valanciunas headed to free agency, will be an offseason priority for New Orleans as it tinkers with the personnel around Zion Williamson. -- Woo
22. Phoenix Suns
Tyler Kolek, PG, Marquette | Age: 23.2
Kolek, ranked No. 26 in ESPN's Top 100, has been one of the big risers of the pre-draft process, putting his unique blend of toughness, skill, experience and feel for the game in every pre-draft workout he's been at thus far.
He has worked out for teams picking as high as the mid-to-late lottery (San Antonio, Utah), and has fans throughout the teens portion of the draft, ending with Orlando and Toronto at No. 18 and No. 19. The success of older, physically underwhelming point guards such as Jalen Brunson and T.J. McConnell seem to be causing teams to look at players like Kolek in a different light.
The Suns, where Kolek is headed for a workout later this week, are viewed as an especially interesting destination considering their lack of depth at the point guard position and need for an experienced playmaker who can operate on and off the ball. -- Givony
23. Milwaukee Bucks (via Pelicans)
Kel'el Ware, C, Indiana | Age: 20.1
Ware was viewed to be building solid momentum in the pre-draft process but wasn't among the 21 players voted by teams into the draft green room, something that could still change once the final wave of invites is released later this week.
He has casted a wide net in workouts thus far, conducting more than a dozen to this point with teams ranging from the late lottery to the end of the first round. Milwaukee, a team he visited, has a clear need at center, with Brook Lopez, 36, entering the final season of his contract, and Bobby Portis able to opt out next summer.
Ware's ability to both pop or roll gives him coveted flexibility he can tap into, along with his solid rebounding and shot-blocking prowess. At 7-1, talent is certainly not a question mark for the 20-year-old, making him a solid value play for any of the teams picking in this range. -- Givony
24. New York Knicks (via Mavericks)
Kyle Filipowski, PF/C, Duke | Age: 20.6
Filipowski appears to have a wide range on draft night, as he appears to be firmly in the conversation for several teams picking in the teens while other teams in the 20s say they expect him to be available when they pick.
Being among the 21 players voted by teams into the draft night green room was a good sign for his standing, as there will almost certainly be a market for a player with his skill set at some point in the first round. Filipowski's ability to handle, pass and shoot is difficult to come by at 7-foot, and the dearth of versatile bigs who can play inside and out will surely be attractive to a team picking in this range -- should he fall this far.
Most teams don't expect the Knicks to keep both of their first-round picks, meaning this selection might very well end up in another team's hands. Trading one of their two picks for a future first-rounder would likely help for trade flexibility down the road, but it remains to be seen what the market will look like on draft night, as picks in the early second round are being viewed as valuable ones due to the salary cap and luxury tax flexibility they offer. -- Givony
25. New York Knicks
Ryan Dunn, SF/PF, Virginia | Age: 21.4
The Knicks are among the teams believed to be highest on Dunn long-term, due to his defensive versatility and knack for creating turnovers and blocking shots on the wing. His poor jump shooting and wavering confidence as a scorer will be something he'll have to work to overcome, but he has showcased his strengths on the workout circuit and has left room for optimism around his long-term chances of offensive growth.
The Knicks, with a defensive-minded coach in Tom Thibodeau, are likely to value the unique production and tools the No. 34 prospect in ESPN's Top 100 brings to the table, and might be more interested than most in being patient with Dunn (who is a Long Island native) as he comes along offensively.
Rival teams expect New York may trade one of these picks in the 20s, so it's possible another team selects for the Knicks here. -- Woo
26. Washington Wizards (via Clippers)
Isaiah Collier, PG, USC | Age: 19.6
While it seems unlikely at this point that Collier, once viewed as a top prospect in this class and now ranked No. 22 in ESPN's Top 100, comes off the board in the lottery, he did receive a green-room invitation and now represents an interesting value pick for teams that can swing on his playmaking talent.
Collier does have interest from teams in the late lottery, but there are realistic scenarios in which he falls toward the back of the first round. It can be difficult for competitive teams to find minutes for a point guard whose key areas for improvement are decision-making and long-range shooting -- logically, Collier might need G League time, particularly if he lands with a playoff-level team. He is a gifted athlete and passer with good size on the ball.
Drafting a talent such as Collier in this back part of the first round would be terrific value for the Wizards if he slides to No. 26. -- Woo
27. Minnesota Timberwolves
Terrence Shannon Jr., SG/SF, Illinois | Age: 23.8
Shannon was acquitted last week and found not guilty of rape and sexual battery charges, a case NBA teams had been following closely. The clarity offered by the court ruling should put front offices and ownership groups at ease, and re-opens a path for Shannon back into the first round, where he will now conduct workouts for a handful of teams going into draft night.
It's quite possible Shannon hears his name called well before this pick at No. 27, with many teams in the top 25 expressing interest and an opportunity to work his way up the board in the days to come. His athletic tools have always been NBA-caliber, but his development at Illinois into a more consistent two-way contributor helped raise the perception around his floor as a useful rotation player.
A playoff-caliber team like the Timberwolves might be excited to see him fall here. -- Woo
28. Denver Nuggets
DaRon Holmes II, PF/C, Dayton | Age: 21.8
Most NBA teams are operating under the assumption Holmes has received a promise from the Nuggets, although it is possible the team might attempt to trade down a few spots into the second round to draft him for financial reasons.
Holmes canceled a half-dozen workouts shortly after the NCAA withdrawal deadline, with several smoking guns pointing in Denver's direction, a scenario that is similar to what we saw play out last year with Jalen Pickett. -- Givony
29. Utah Jazz (via Thunder)
Baylor Scheierman, SG/SF, Creighton | Age: 23.7
Many teams expect Scheierman to come off the draft board in the 20s, with his mix of shooting, craftiness and positional size likely to make him immediately useful coming off an NBA bench.
The No. 25 ranked prospect in ESPN's Top 100 has workouts scheduled with Utah, New Orleans and Denver in the coming days. The Jazz can go a variety of directions with three picks in the first 32 selections, and should have the ability to balance drafting for need as well as long-term upside. In this scenario, after taking the long view with Topic at No. 10, a more rotation-ready option such as Scheierman makes sense here. -- Woo
30. Boston Celtics
Pacome Dadiet, SG/SF, Ratiopharm Ulm | Age: 18.8
Dadiet, ranked No. 29 in ESPN's Top 100, elected to remain in the draft at the NBA's withdrawal deadline Sunday, a sign he is receiving positive enough feedback to feel comfortable with where he might end up being drafted.
Utah and Boston are some of the teams connected with Dadiet at the end of the first round, and he is also expected to visit Orlando, Miami, Philadelphia, San Antonio, Milwaukee and Brooklyn in his short time in the U.S. due to his mandatory appearance at the draft combine in Treviso, Italy the first week of June.
Dadiet's combination of size (6-9), youth and shot-making prowess gives him an interesting upside to grow into long-term, something that could be attractive at this stage of the draft. -- Givony
ROUND 2
31. Toronto Raptors (via Pistons)
Jaylon Tyson, SG/SF, California | Age: 21.5
32. Utah Jazz (via Wizards)
Bobi Klintman, SF/PF, Cairns (Australia) | Age: 21.2
33. Milwaukee Bucks (via Trail Blazers)
Tyler Smith, SF/PF, G League Ignite | Age: 19.6
34. Portland Trail Blazers (via Hornets)
Cam Christie, SG, Minnesota | Age: 18.8
35. San Antonio Spurs
Juan Nunez, PG, Ratiopharm Ulm (Germany) | Age: 20.0
36. Indiana Pacers (via Raptors)
A.J. Johnson, SG, Illawarra (Australia) | Age: 19.5
37. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Grizzlies)
Adem Bona, C, UCLA | Age: 21.2
38. New York Knicks (via Jazz)
Kevin McCullar, SF, Kansas | Age: 23.2
39. Memphis Grizzlies (via Nets)
Justin Edwards, SG/SF, Kentucky | Age: 20.4
40. Portland Trail Blazers (via Hawks)
Melvin Ajinca, SG/SF, Saint Quentin (France) | Age: 19.9
41. Philadelphia 76ers (via Bulls)
Pelle Larsson, SG, Arizona | Age: 23.3
42. Charlotte Hornets (via Rockets)
Jonathan Mogbo, PF/C, San Francisco | Age: 22.6
43. Miami Heat
Jamal Shead, PG, Houston | Age: 21.8
44. Houston Rockets (via Warriors)
Ulrich Chomche, PF/C, NBA Academy Showcase (Africa) | Age: 18.4
45. Sacramento Kings
Harrison Ingram, SF/PF, North Carolina | Age: 21.5
46. LA Clippers (via Pacers)
Ajay Mitchell, PG, UC Santa Barbara | Age: 21.9
47. Orlando Magic
Jaylen Wells, SG/SF, Washington State | Age: 20.8
48. San Antonio Spurs (via Lakers)
Cam Spencer, SG, UConn | Age: 24.1
49. Indiana Pacers (via Cavaliers)
Nikola Djurisic, SG/SF, Mega MIS (Adriatic League) | Age: 20.3
50. Indiana Pacers (via Pelicans)
Dillon Jones, SF/PF, Weber State | Age: 22.6
51. Washington Wizards (via Suns)
Keshad Johnson, PF, Arizona | Age: 22.9
52. Golden State Warriors (via Bucks)
KJ Simpson, PG, Colorado | Age: 21.8
53. Detroit Pistons (via Knicks)
Jalen Bridges, SF, Baylor | Age: 23.0
54. Boston Celtics (via Mavericks)
Antonio Reeves, SG/SF, Kentucky | Age: 23.5
55. Los Angeles Lakers (via Clippers)
Bronny James, PG/SG, USC | Age: 19.6
56. Denver Nuggets (via Timberwolves)
Oso Ighodaro, PF/C, Marquette | Age: 21.9
57. Memphis Grizzlies (via Thunder)
Enrique Freeman, PF/C, Akron | Age: 23.8
58. Dallas Mavericks (via Celtics)
Trentyn Flowers, SG/SF, Adelaide (Australia) | Age: 19.2
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.
