2024 NBA Draft on B/R

Bleacher Report: Impressive freshman class making moves in latest Mock Draft

B/R's Jonathan Wasserman has a full 2-round Mock Draft as the college postseason gets underway

Jonathan Wasserman, Bleacher Report

Rob Dillingham (left) and Reed Sheppard, Kentucky

Editor’s Note: Find more of Jonathan Wasserman’s coverage of the 2024 Draft on Bleacher Report or to read this article on BleacherReport.com, click here.

(B/R) — With the regular season wrapping up, NBA scouts are starting to put more thought into specific rankings and tiers of their boards.

Executives are also ready to start hitting the road to conference tournaments.

Some new excitement is starting to build around this class with some of the freshmen starting to show more. It’s led to movement in our lottery, with several guards moving up.

Still, fit figures to play a bigger role in this draft than normal, with scouts admitting to having trouble confidently separating the top prospects, starting at No. 1 overall.

1. Washington Wizards: Alexandre Sarr

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 1
  • Team: Perth Wildcats
  • Nationality: French
  • Position: PF/C
  • Size: 7-foot-1, 216 lbs
  • Age: 18
  • Pro comparison: Jaren Jackson Jr.

Losers of 15 straight, the Washington Wizards now own the NBA’s worst winning percentage with a roster that won’t factor needs or fit into their draft decision. Alexandre Sarr right now might look most attractive at No. 1, given the appeal to building around a surefire defensive asset and his path to offensive upside that exists based on the flashes of ball-handling and shot-making for a 7-foot-1 big.

Still 18 years old, Sarr has contributed to Perth’s spot in the NBL semis (March 8 vs. Tasmania JackJumpers), operating mostly as an athletic finishing target, spot-up scorer (shooting and attacking closeouts), pick-and-roll defender and rim protector. Some standout numbers: He’s made 16 3-pointers and 13-of-28 pull-ups and held opponents to 2-of-11 while guarding ball screens and 42.9% around the basket.

2. Detroit Pistons: Zaccharie Risacher

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 2
  • Team: JL Bourg-en-Bresse
  • Nationality: French
  • Position: SF
  • Size: 6-foot-8, 204 lbs
  • Age: 18
  • Pro comparison: Michael Porter Jr.

Regardless of where the Detroit Pistons pick, they figure to show significant interest in adding Zaccharie Risacher’s shotmaking between Jaden Ivey and their non-shooting trio of Ausar Thompson, Jalen Duren and Isaiah Stewart.

In a draft that’s difficult to identify any surefire future All-Star, Risacher could have an edge with a perceived safe mix of positional size, athleticism, strong defensive tools, a 44.6% 3-point stroke and pro league production.

Any creation he’s able to add over the years may have to be considered a bonus. In the meantime, for a team with multiple starting playmakers, Risacher seems like an easy fit who’d benefit from playing alongside high-gravity ball-handlers like Cade Cunningham and Ivey.

3. San Antonio Spurs: Nikola Topić

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 3
  • Team: KK Crvena Zvezda
  • Nationality: Serbian
  • Position: PG
  • Size: 6-foot-6, 198 lbs
  • Age: 18
  • Pro comparison: Goran Dragic

Nikola Topić could check both the best player and fit available for the San Antonio Spurs at No. 3. While Kentucky’s Rob Dillingham could provide more shotmaking, Topić was the Adriatic League’s assist leader before going down, and at 6-foot-6, he was far more productive and efficient at getting to and finishing around the basket (68.1%) than the 6-foot-3 Dillingham (52.6%).

San Antonio could clearly use Topić’s ability to create advantages at the point of attack and help set up the team’s wing shooters and Victor Wembanyama.

Scouts are hoping to see the injured point guard play again with Crvena Zvezda in EuroLeague, and an initial six-week timetable to return suggests he could be back soon.

4. Charlotte Hornets: Ron Holland

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 4
  • School: G League Ignite
  • Nationality: American
  • Position: SF
  • Size: 6-foot-6, 204 lbs
  • Age: 18
  • Pro Comparison: Cam Whitmore

With the Charlotte Hornets hitting big on Brandon Miller, they could now complement his shotmaking with Ron Holland’s explosiveness and rim pressure.

Once viewed as a No. 1 overall favorite, Holland may be on the board outside the top three, with concerns being raised over his shooting, turnovers and Ignite’s poor record. At 18 years old, he still managed to average 19.5 points in the G League, consistently producing off his open-floor speed, burst turning the corner, deep finishing bag and capable/streaky shotmaking.

With LaMelo Ball and Miller, Holland would be able to play more to his strengths as a high-energy attacking wing, as opposed to a higher-usage creator.

5. Portland Trail Blazers: Matas Buzelis

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 5
  • Team: G League Ignite
  • Nationality: Lithuanian/American
  • Position: SG/SF
  • Size: 6-foot-8, 209 lbs
  • Age: 19
  • Pro comparison: Lamar Odom

Ron Holland being out for the season has given Matas Buzelis more opportunities to be aggressive on the ball. He’s starting to show how tough he can be attacking in space with his ball-handling, body control and positional size. His bounce also continues to pop at both ends on finishes and defensive plays.

Scouts still wish Buzelis’ shooting was more consistent. However, there is still optimism around his stroke, and flashes of shotmaking versatility show a forward capable of hitting tough or off-balance jumpers inside the arc.

Certain teams may wind up giving Buzelis an edge over his teammate Holland, who isn’t as big or convincing from the outside or reliant on athleticism.

6. Memphis Grizzlies: Reed Sheppard

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 8
  • School: Kentucky
  • Nationality: American
  • Position: SG
  • Size: 6-foot-3, 187 lbs
  • Age: 19
  • Pro comparison: Donte DiVincenzo

Reed Sheppard burned a performance into scouts’ memories with his 32 points, seven assists and buzzer-beater at Mississippi State. The idea of boxing him into a “connector” role at the next level is starting to feel limiting. This was the type of explosion that could help stretch NBA teams’ imaginations and allow them to see more initiator potential with how he was able to surprise defenses with his burst to break them down and make plays off the dribble.

Regardless, Sheppard figures to look like an easy fit anywhere with his lights-out stroke and ball-moving. But it’s the flashes of ball-screen driving and pull-ups that hint at another level of scoring upside that Kentucky’s deep rotation may be masking.

7. San Antonio Spurs (via Raptors): Rob Dillingham

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 7
  • School: Kentucky
  • Position: PG/SG
  • Nationality: American
  • Size: 6-foot-3, 176 lbs
  • Age: 18
  • Pro Comparison: Lou Williams

Rob Dillingham continues to deliver more takeover scoring stretches for Kentucky. And while there is some debate about his projected consistency—which could determine whether he’s more of a lead guard, secondary creator/combo or sixth man—every rotation could benefit from having a ball-handler or microwave scorer who can generate offense and shoot a team into a game or past an opponent.

The biggest questions revolve around Dillingham’s physical tools for finishing and defending. It’s the level of certainty tied to his shiftiness, shotmaking versatility and playmaking threat that will make him difficult to resist after the first handful of picks. The San Antonio Spurs—who’ll steal the Toronto Raptors’ pick if it’s outside the top six—won’t pass on Dillingham twice.

8. Houston Rockets (via Nets): Cody Williams

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 6
  • School: Colorado
  • Nationality: American
  • Position: SF
  • Size: 6-foot-8, 190 lbs
  • Age: 19
  • Pro comparison: Jaden McDaniels

Cody Williams’ big-wing archetype will sway teams to be patient with his on-ball development. Even without the most polished skill set, he’s averaging 13.7 points on 20.6% usage with a 65.8 true shooting percentage, a tribute to his efficiency capitalizing in transition, hitting spot-up 3-pointers and finishing drives/cuts within the flow of Colorado’s offense.

He’s flashed some glimpses of pick-and-roll ball-handling and change of direction attacking the rim. But he’s still limited off the dribble and doesn’t have a pull-up game yet.

9. Atlanta Hawks: Kyle Filipowski

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 9
  • School: Duke
  • Nationality: American
  • Position: PF/C
  • Size: 7’0″, 248 lbs
  • Age: 20
  • Pro comparison: Santi Aldama

Scoring mismatch isn’t the draw to Kyle Filipowski anymore. It’s the versatility—a specific combination of shooting, passing, physical finishing and switchable defense that separates him from most 7-footers and can give a frontcourt a different feel or advantage.

The flashes of transition ball-handling or half-court face-up moves into drives are a bonus and allow Filipowski to generate his own offense in space. But his real value comes from making his lineup better with floor-spacing, post passing, cleaning up inside and his ability to slide and guard around the perimeter.

10. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Rockets): Devin Carter

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 11
  • School/team: Providence
  • Nationality: American
  • Position: PG/SG
  • Age: 21
  • Size: 6-foot-3, 195 lbs
  • Pro comparison: Brandin Podziemski

Devin Carter’s projected archetype has evolved since the 2023 season, when he felt like just a potential defensive specialist or two-way playmaker. He’s now averaging 19.1 points with 72 3-pointers in 28 games. At 6-foot-3, the offense won’t all translate, but he’s developed some convincing shotmaking skill/confidence and some ball-screen creativity to go with his signature defensive pressure and tough rebounding. Teams should see a jack-of-all-trades who can impact games with versatility and toughness/competitiveness.

11. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Jazz): Donovan Clingan

  • Donovan Clingan, Connecticut
  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 22
  • School: Connecticut
  • Nationality: American
  • Position: C
  • Size: 7-foot-2, 280 lbs
  • Age: 19
  • Pro comparison: Jakob Poeltl

Donovan Clingan won’t be for everyone, but he’ll interest specific teams looking to add more physicality and rim protection. At 280 pounds, he’ll continue to finish from the dunker’s spot, catch lobs and put back misses. He’s also nearly doubled last year’s assist rate, and he’s cut down on his fouls while still blocking 4.2 shots per 40 minutes.

12. Chicago Bulls: Isaiah Collier

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 18
  • School: USC
  • Nationality: American
  • Position: PG
  • Size: 6-foot-5, 210 lbs
  • Age: 19
  • Pro comparison: Tyreke Evans

Isaiah Collier may have moved the needle against Washington with a 31-point outburst that highlighted his shiftiness, physical driving and capable shotmaking.

The big question for teams is whether Collier’s style and decision-making are suited for a lead guard role because he does not possess much off-ball value.

The real upside kicks in with Collier if he’s able to complement his speed with more poise, improve his playmaking reads and reach average levels of shooting. In the meantime, to start his pro career, he’ll be most useful in a scoring-spark role off the bench, where he can focus on just putting pressure on the rim and attacking defenses.

13. Portland Trail Blazers (via Warriors): Tyler Smith

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 13
  • Team: G League Ignite
  • Nationality: American
  • Position: PF
  • Size: 6-foot-11, 224 lbs
  • Age: 19
  • Pro comparison: Channing Frye

Scouts debate whether Tyler Smith is merely a spot-up shooter or a more versatile, inside-out scorer. At 6-foot-11, a convincing stroke and strong finishing tools should draw top-20 interest regardless, but Smith has fans around the league who’d take him earlier than mid-first round. The ability to catch, rise and fire from anywhere in the half court could turn Smith into a more useful/dangerous scoring threat.

14. New Orleans Pelicans (via Lakers): Terrence Shannon Jr.

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 16
  • School/team: Illinois
  • Nationality: American
  • Position: SG/SF
  • Age: 23
  • Size: 6-foot-6, 225 lbs
  • Pro Comparison: Kelly Oubre

Defenses have had difficulty staying in front of Terrence Shannon Jr. All-world speed/burst and functional handles create advantages, which should continue in the NBA’s open floor, off first moves and in ball-screen situations.

His shooting is still streaky, but he’s become a potent enough shotmaker to pose a consistent threat or catch fire during a game.

Regardless, Shannon’s draft stock will be fully tied to his May 10 hearing for a September rape allegation.

15. Toronto Raptors (via Pacers): Ja’Kobe Walter

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 12
  • School/Team: Baylor
  • Nationality: American
  • Position: SG
  • Size: 6-foot-5, 195 lbs
  • Age: 19
  • Pro Comparison: Kentavious Caldwell-Pope

Scouts remain confident in Ja’Kobe Walter’s shotmaking and physical tools for line-driving and defending. But for a non-creator and limited playmaker, the bar for his shooting will always be high—so 33.5% from deep may make Walter vulnerable on draft boards. Interested teams will be hoping for a Kentavious Caldwell-Pope-type three-and-D 2-guard.

16. New York Knicks (via Mavericks): Jared McCain

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 20
  • School/Team: Duke
  • Nationality: American
  • Position: SG
  • Age: 19
  • Size: 6-foot-3, 197 lbs
  • Pro comparison: Immanuel Quickley

Jared McCain’s shotmaking should be one of the draft’s more bankable skills, given the high school tape and this year’s 41% on 3-pointers. But he should add some secondary value with his pick-and-roll craftiness and efficient transition offense with body-controlled finishes and pull-up 3-pointers on the break.

17. Miami Heat: Dalton Knecht

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 17
  • School: Tennessee
  • Nationality: American
  • Position: SF
  • Size: 6-foot-6, 204 lbs
  • Age: 22
  • Pro comparison: Max Strus

Dalton Knecht continues to sway scouts to forget about age, most recently scoring 39 points against a tough Auburn defense. The list of recent high-impact starters who were drafted at 23 years old remains short. But that won’t bother teams picking in this year’s Nos. 11-20 range. The likelihood of Knecht providing instant shotmaking will feel high, and that should be enough for teams who’d prefer a sure thing over investing years into a lengthier, developmental project.

18. Atlanta Hawks (via Kings): Johnny Furphy

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 10
  • School/Team: Kansas
  • Nationality: Australian
  • Position: Small forward
  • Size: 6-foot-9, 202 lbs
  • Age: 19
  • Pro comparison: Trey Murphy

Teams looking to fill off-ball positions with efficient shotmaking, play-finishing and activity will be drawn to Johnny Furphy. While he hasn’t flashed much creation or passing, his 37.3 3-point mark and 80.8 field-goal percentage at the rim feel ideal for a spot-up and transition-heavy role. He’s the type of player whose off shooting nights won’t hurt, given the automatic spacing and energy he brings.

19. Phoenix Suns: Kel’el Ware

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 14
  • School: Indiana
  • Nationality: American
  • Position: C
  • Size: 7’0″, 242 lbs
  • Age: 19
  • Pro Comparison: Jarrett Allen

Losses have overshadowed Kel’el Ware’s stronger play over the past month. But a 27-point, 11-rebound, five-block game in a win over Wisconsin helped bring more attention to his finishing/defensive tools, shooting touch and ability to impact games at both ends.

While the questions about his motor, toughness and decision-making may cost him lottery looks, Ware’s measurements, athleticism and skill figure to entice during workouts and sway teams to look past specific (disappointing) showings or Indiana’s record.

20. Orlando Magic: Yves Missi

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 15
  • School: Baylor
  • Nationality: Cameroon
  • Position: C
  • Size: 7’0″, 235 lbs
  • Age: 19
  • Pro comparison: Mark Williams

Yves Missi’s tools and athleticism are designed for lob-catching and shot-blocking. He’s also showing some face-up skills using his handle and body control to attack bigs in space. Missi has struggled to convert putback chances and post-ups, so teams will need to address why that’s been the case during pre-draft meetings. He could work on his touch, creating angles and using his body to carve out space. Early on, Missi’s value will revolve around picking up easy baskets, guarding pick-and-rolls and protecting the basket.

21. Philadelphia 76ers: Jaylon Tyson

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 19
  • Team: California
  • Nationality: American
  • Position: SF/PF
  • Size: 6-foot-7, 215 lbs
  • Age: 21
  • Pro comparison: Caleb Martin

Jaylon Tyson has become one of the draft’s most advanced on-ball forwards with handles and footwork for self-creation into drives, jumpers and floaters. Tyson’s shotmaking off his own dribble and post moves have powered his scoring production. He just hasn’t been as efficient off the ball, and some teams may question how he’ll adjust and fit after this year’s 30.2 usage percentage.

22. New York Knicks: Stephon Castle

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 23
  • School: Connecticut
  • Nationality: American
  • Position: SG
  • Size: 6-foot-6, 215 lbs
  • Age: 19
  • Pro comparison: Bruce Brown

Believers in Stephon Castle see a 6-foot-6 playmaker who plays at his own pace to get to spots and finishes through contact. Skeptics question his quickness for creating separation, shooting range and reliance on transition and offensive boards.

His draft range will be wide. But Sunday’s 21 points highlighted some impressive ball-handling moves and short-range touch to go with his power drives.

Castle should ultimately have extra time to strengthen his draft case with Connecticut looking poised to make a deep NCAA tournament run.

23. New Orleans Pelicans: Tristan da Silva

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 28
  • School/Team: Colorado
  • Nationality: German/Brazilian
  • Position: SF/PF
  • Size: 6-foot-9, 220 lbs
  • Age: 22
  • Pro comparison: Kyle Kuzma

With Cody Williams out, Tristan da Silva went for 27 points and 11 boards against Stanford, giving scouts a balanced mix of ball-handling counter moves, on-the-move finishes and 3-point shooting. Some teams will pass because of his lack of burst, explosion around the basket and physicality. But shotmaking, touch, body control and IQ will give da Silva a chance to overcome athletic limitations.

24. Washington Wizards (via Clippers): Ulrich Chomche

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 21
  • Team: NBA Academy Africa
  • Nationality: Cameroon
  • Position: PF/C
  • Size: 6-foot-11, 225 lbs
  • Age: 18

Ulrich Chomche will be one of the big draws at April’s Nike Hoop Summit, and his performance there could dictate whether he’s bound for the 2024 first round or college in 2024-25.

He generated significant buzz at the NBA Academy Games during G League Showcase week, popping easily with size, length, rim protection, shooting range and brief ball-handling and passing flashes. Even if teams deem Chomche a multiyear project, certain front offices may be too tempted in a draft where it’s difficult to detect upside after the first few picks.

25. Cleveland Cavaliers: Dillon Jones

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 24
  • School/Team: Weber State
  • Nationality: American
  • Position: SG/SF
  • Age: 22
  • Size: 6-foot-6, 235 lbs

There will be teams that nitpick at Dillon Jones’ unorthodox fit and Weber State’s strength of schedule. But all it takes is one to gamble on rare versatility, improving creation and unprecedented, across-the-board production. He just became the only NCAA player on record to finish a game with at least 30 points, 23 boards and nine assists. While it is worth thinking about what purpose he’ll serve playing off the ball, when he’s on-ball his handle, live-dribble passing and two-point shotmaking can still translate to half-court scoring and playmaking.

26. Milwaukee Bucks: Tidjane Salaun

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 25
  • Team: Cholet
  • Nationality: French
  • Position: PF
  • Size: 6-foot-8, 212 lbs
  • Age: 18
  • Pro comparison: Obi Toppin

Age, production, size/athleticism and shotmaking are behind the Tidjane Salaun love. He’s still not advanced in any area, but he shoots with admirable confidence for a 6-foot-8 18-year-old. In all leagues this season, he’s made 55 3-pointers in 39 games and 78.6% of his free throws. Low assist, rebounding and defensive playmaking rates point to a limited margin for error with his shot development.

27. Utah Jazz (via Thunder): Kevin McCullar Jr.

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 26
  • School: Kansas
  • Nationality: American
  • Position: SG/SF
  • Size: 6-foot-7, 214 lbs
  • Age: 22

Nerves around Kevin McCullar Jr.’s knee faded after he returned to score 20 points against Baylor on Saturday.

There is a level of comfort around his improvement, archetype and versatility that should keep the projected 23-year-old rookie in the first-round discussion. He’s struggled as a pick-and-roll ball-handler with his pull-up and limited explosion, but between his transition offense, catch-and-shoot game, passing IQ and defensive tools, McCullar should have a fairly adaptable game.

28. Denver Nuggets: Collin Murray-Boyles

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 30
  • School: South Carolina
  • Nationality: American
  • Position: PF
  • Size: 6-foot-7, 231 lbs
  • Age: 18

Collin Murray-Boyles will divide teams with his production, strong analytics and an older-school game that raises questions about translation and fit. He’s been highly effective with his 231-pound frame, excellent hands, and instincts for two-point scoring, play-finishing and putbacks. And he defends well in space despite carrying more weight. Murray-Boyles has also been a box plus-minus star, ranking second among freshmen behind projected lottery pick Reed Sheppard.

29. Minnesota Timberwolves: Carlton Carrington

  • Previous mock draft spot: Off the board
  • School/team: Pittsburgh
  • Nationality: American
  • Position: PG/SG
  • Age: 18
  • Size: 6-foot-5, 190 lbs

Combining for 45 points and 10 3-pointers over Pittsburgh’s last two games, Carlton Carrington is making a last-second push to increase 2024 first-round interest. He’ll be one of the more interesting names to monitor during the predraft process. He’s caught scouts’ attention all year with his shotmaking and playmaking production for a 6-foot-5, 18-year-old. But there also some red flags—47.7% on layups, 23 half-court field goals at the rim, 17 steals in 29 games—and room to improve his 31.3 3-point percentage.

It’s easy to be intrigued by his ball-screen passing and pull-up shooting. It’s also reasonable to be skeptical about his lack of rim pressure, explosion and defensive playmaking.

30. Boston Celtics: KJ Simpson

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 32
  • School: Colorado
  • Nationality: American
  • Position: Guard
  • Size: 6-foot-2, 189 lbs
  • Age: 21
  • Pro comparison: Darren Collison

KJ Simpson has earned himself mentions in this year’s draft discussion by averaging 19.9 points and 4.8 assists on 46.2% shooting from 3-point range. Scouts still sound hesitant about a 6-foot-2 score-first guard who’s lacking plus athletic traits to compensate for lack of size. But at some point, teams will have to put stock into the effectiveness of his creativity, shotmaking and confidence. We’re starting to see below-the-rim ball-handlers succeed with footwork, touch, range and IQ.

31. Utah Jazz (via Wizards): Bobi Klintman

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 31
  • Team: Cairns Taipans
  • Nationality: Swedish
  • Position: SF/PF
  • Size: 6-foot-8, 215 lbs
  • Age: 20
  • Pro comparison: De’Andre Hunter

After looking underused last year at Wake Forest, Bobi Klintman emerged as a useful NBL combo forward with his open-floor ball-handling, capable shotmaking and defensive tools. He still wasn’t given the freedom to showcase much off-the-dribble skill, but the versatility to initiate fast breaks, space the floor, threaten from 3-point range and guard 3s and 4s should earn him looks in the 20s and 30s.

32. Toronto Raptors (via Pistons): Zach Edey

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 33
  • School/team: Purdue
  • Nationality: Canadian
  • Position: C
  • Age: 21
  • Size: 7-foot-4, 300 lbs

Zach Edey registered his eighth 30-point game of the season against Michigan State. No college team has any creative answer for his size, power, footwork and touch in the lane. Scouts are still questioning how effective he’ll be against NBA 7-footers and whether Edey can move well enough defensively on a more spaced-out floor. There will be teams that would presumably rather gamble on guards or wings. But all it takes is one team to see a big man with physical tools and post skills that are too advantageous to pass on.

33. San Antonio Spurs: Kyshawn George

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 34
  • School/team: Miami
  • Nationality: Switzerland
  • Position: SG/SF
  • Age: 20
  • Size: 6-foot-8, 205 lbs

The eight 3-pointers and eight assists over Miami’s past two games highlight Kyshawn George’s rare shotmaking and ball-handling for a 6-foot-8 20-year-old. Scouts just have to factor his thin frame and zero explosiveness, and how they limit his scoring inside the arc.

34. Portland Trail Blazers (via Hornets): Oso Ighodaro

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 35
  • School/team: Marquette
  • Nationality: American
  • Position: C
  • Age: 21
  • Size: 6-foot-11, 235 lbs
  • Pro comparison: Brandon Clarke

The ball-handling, passing and touch shots continue to separate Oso Ighodaro from most bigs. His 2.8 assists per game and 56 made runners/floaters are unique numbers for a projected center. Teams will be drawn to Ighodaro’s potential to give them a different look up front with his playmaking and signature push shots around the free-throw line.

35. Milwaukee Bucks (via Blazers): Hunter Sallis

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 27
  • School/team: Wake Forest
  • Nationality: American
  • Position: SG
  • Age: 21
  • Size: 6-foot-5, 185 lbs
  • Pro comparison: Malaki Branham

Despite Hunter Sallis’ following up a 29-point effort against Duke with consecutive off shooting games, he’s scored with enough consistency, creation, three-level shotmaking skill and athletic finishing to receive strong consideration in the 20s. It’s just tough to picture too big a rise for a 6-foot-5 guard who’s turning 21 this month and doesn’t offer much playmaking.

36. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Grizzlies): Ryan Dunn

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 29
  • School: Virginia
  • Nationality: American
  • Position: SF/PF
  • Size: 6-foot-8, 216 lbs
  • Age: 20
  • Pro comparison: Matisse Thybulle

Ten straight games without a double-digit scoring effort is making it difficult for scouts to fall in love with Ryan Dunn. Still, his explosiveness for play-finishing and defensive court coverage may be special enough for a team in the 20s to picture an outlier and specialist.

37: Philadelphia 76ers (via Raptors): Pelle Larsson

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 36
  • School/Team: Arizona
  • Nationality: Swedish
  • Position: SF
  • Age: 22
  • Size: 6-foot-6, 215 lbs

Efficient on and off the ball, Pelle Larsson possesses an adaptable game with his slashing/ playmaking in ball-screen situations, cutting and improved catch-and-shoot stroke. He reads the game well, capitalizes within the flow of Arizona’s offense, can be used in different roles and doesn’t take bad shots. Even if there isn’t an obvious path to upside for Larsson, teams could project a plug-and-play wing.

38. Memphis Grizzlies (via Nets): Harrison Ingram

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 38
  • School/team: North Carolina
  • Nationality: American
  • Position: SF
  • Age: 21
  • Size: 6-foot-7, 235 lbs

With 22 points on 8-of-14 against NC State, Harrison Ingram added another strong showing to his improved resume. At 39.5% from 3-point range, he can now be used in a variety of ways with his spot-up shooting, strength around the basket and pick-and-roll ball-handling that we saw more of at Stanford. There should be numerous teams in the second round who’ll look at Ingram’s range, passing and defensive tools and picture a connector/role player.

39. Charlotte Hornets (via Rockets): Adem Bona

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 39
  • School/team: UCLA
  • Nationality: Turkish/Nigerian
  • Position: C
  • Age: 20
  • Size: 6-foot-10, 245 lbs
  • Pro comparison: Isaiah Jackson

The scouting report hasn’t changed much on Adem Bona, an exciting finisher, capable low-post option, rangy defender/shot-blocker and foul-prone big man. While he isn’t sharp enough with the ball for NBA teams to feed in the half court, he does have the right tools, athleticism and motor for an energizer role.

40. Portland Trail Blazers (via Hawks): Payton Sandfort

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 43
  • School/team: Iowa
  • Nationality: American
  • Position: SF
  • Age: 20
  • Size: 6-foot-7, 215 lbs
  • Pro comparison: Sam Hauser

Payton Sandfort recorded the first triple-double in Iowa men’s basketball history at Penn State, showing passing IQ and more aggression (18-of-19 FTs) than a typical shotmaking specialist. Shooting versatility and touch shots will still be Sandfort’s moneymakers in the NBA, but the ball-moving and toughness make him more attractive and well-rounded for a supporting role.

41. New York Knicks (via Jazz): Jamal Shead

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 41
  • School: Houston
  • Nationality: American
  • Position: PG
  • Size: 6-foot-1, 200 lbs
  • Age: 21
  • Pro comparison: Jevon Carter

Scouts are talking themselves into the idea of Jamal Shead succeeding in the same defensive pest role as smaller guards like Jevon Carter, Miles McBride, Jose Alvarado and Patrick Beverley. With 29 points against Texas Tech, 25 points at Texas, 23 points versus Oklahoma State and 26 points most recently against Iowa State, he’s also now starting to deliver more of a scoring punch with his pull-up and floater.

42. Boston Celtics (via Bulls): Tyler Kolek

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 42
  • School: Marquette
  • Nationality: American
  • Position: PG
  • Size: 6-foot-3, 195 lbs
  • Age: 22

There is debate about how much of Tyler Kolek’s scoring will carry over to the pros. But his pick-and-roll playmaking and passing are considered translatable, and he should still be able to threaten defenses as a shotmaker with his catch-and-shoot game and floater.

43. Houston Rockets (via Warriors): Ajay Mitchell

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 40
  • School/Team: UC Santa Barbara
  • Nationality: Belgian
  • Position: PG
  • Age: 21
  • Size: 6-foot-5, 190 lbs

The lack of 3-point volume may turn teams off to Ajay Mitchell, whose athletic limitations and schedule already raise questions. But his 19.3 points, 4.0 assists and 60.0 true shooting percentage highlight the guard’s exceptional effectiveness using change of speed, tough shot-making and finishing adjustments. His on-ball skill/craft, production and efficiency could be too difficult to keep ignoring in the second round.

44. San Antonio Spurs (via Lakers): Pacome Dadiet

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 44
  • Team: Ratiopharm Ulm
  • Nationality: French
  • Position: SF/PF
  • Size: 6-foot-8, 210 lbs
  • Age: 18

Athletic, 6-foot-8 and 18 years old, Pacome Dadiet is finding ways to score in the German League and Eurocup by running the floor, cutting and making 41.7 percent of his jump shots. NBA teams could determine that he has the right physical traits, motor and an adequate shooting stroke for off-ball finishing and defensive versatility.

45. Los Angeles Clippers (via Pacers): Melvin Ajinça

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 37
  • Team/nationality: Saint-Quentin
  • Nationality: French
  • Position: SG/SF
  • Age: 19
  • Size: 6-foot-7

Between FIBA and LNB Pro A, there has been enough evidence of Melvin Ajinça’s shotmaking for teams to target it in the second round. They’ll just have to accept the idea that he may not offer much else in terms of creation, passing or defensive upside.

46. Boston Celtics (via Mavericks): Justin Edwards

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 45
  • School/Team: Kentucky
  • Nationality: American
  • Position: SF
  • Age: 20
  • Size: 6-foot-8, 203 lbs

It’s easy to see the appeal to Justin Edwards when his shot is falling. But limited creation and shooting inconsistency have made it difficult to buy in. He’s demonstrated enough shot-making potential lately to remain interesting, but Edwards will still have some convincing to do during workouts to sway teams to see a serviceable three-and-D wing.

47. Miami Heat: Baylor Scheierman

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 53
  • School: Creighton
  • Nationality: American
  • Position: SF
  • Size: 6-foot-7, 205 lbs
  • Age: 23
  • Pro comparison: Joe Ingles

Coming off a 26-point, 16-rebound, four-assist game against Marquette, Baylor Scheierman continues pressuring scouts to start looking past his athletic limitations. The shotmaking and passing seem highly translatable and non-dependent on quickness or explosion.

48. Sacramento Kings: Coleman Hawkins

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 50
  • Team: Illinois
  • Nationality: American
  • Position: PF
  • Size: 6-foot-10, 225 lbs
  • Age: 22

Teams will see an interesting fit with Coleman Hawkins, whose 6-foot-10 size, 39.8% 3-point shooting and ball-handling/passing skills are suited for a stretch-4 role.

49. Orlando Magic: DaRon Holmes II

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 46
  • School: Dayton
  • Nationality: American
  • Position: C
  • Size: 6-foot-10, 235 lbs
  • Age: 21
  • Pro comparison: Trayce Jackson-Davis

DaRon Holmes II has helped himself this year by taking/making more 3-pointers, passing and showing some improved ball-handling control. There is some debate among scouts about how translatable the new skills are, but teams still sound interested enough in his athleticism and production around the basket to draft him, even if the new shot or dribble moves don’t come with him.

50. Washington Wizards (via Suns): Izan Almansa

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 48
  • Team: G League Ignite
  • Nationality: Spanish
  • Position: PF/C
  • Age: 18
  • Size: 6-foot-10, 230 lbs

While Izan Almansa hasn’t flashed any skill or defensive trait that points to upside, he should generate second-round interest with an unteachable mix of size, good hands, touch and instincts for play-finishing.

He will be appealing to teams interested in adding frontcourt depth and interior activity.

51. Indiana Pacers (via Pelicans): Trey Alexander

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 52
  • School/team: Creighton
  • Nationality: American
  • Position: SG
  • Age: 20
  • Size: 6-foot-4, 190 lbs

Consecutive games with at least 10 assists is noteworthy for Trey Alexander. Given his lack of size, strength and plus athletic traits, scouts wanted to see more creation, playmaking and combo-guard play this year. With a 6-foot-10 wingspan, three-level shotmaking skill and more passing flashes, Alexander should have enough going for him to sell a team in the second round.

52. Detroit Pistons (via Knicks): Johni Broome

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 57
  • School/Team: Auburn
  • Nationality: American
  • Position: C
  • Age: 21
  • Size: 6-foot-10, 240 lbs

Johni Broome’s identity revolves around his physicality, toughness and interior defense. But he’s updated his game this year with improved shooting and passing to create a more modern look, versatility and ways to impact games.

53. Indiana Pacers (via Cavaliers): Judah Mintz

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 55
  • School/team: Syracuse
  • Nationality: American
  • Position: PG/SG
  • Age: 20
  • Size: 6-foot-4, 185 lbs
  • Pro Comparison: Jaden Ivey

Judah Mintz didn’t make enough progress this year with his shooting to alter the scouting report or evaluations. He’s still intriguing for his speed with the ball, rim pressure, playmaking and defensive activity for a bench-spark role. With a second-round pick, it’s still worth finding out if his tough shotmaking inside the arc could be enough for Mintz to keep scoring when combined with his quickness attacking the basket.

54. Los Angeles Lakers (via Clippers): PJ Hall

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 47
  • School/team: Clemson
  • Nationality: American
  • Position: PF/C
  • Age: 21
  • Size: 6-foot-10, 238 lbs
  • Pro comparison: Dean Wade

More perimeter shotmaking has helped PJ Hall look better suited for the NBA, given teams’ limited interest in adding a post-up-heavy big. He doesn’t rebound or block shots at substantial rates, so Hall may have to convince a team that his shooting is real and he’s nimble enough to defend away from the basket.

55. Indiana Pacers (via Bucks): Antonio Reeves

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 56
  • School/Team: Kentucky
  • Nationality: American
  • Position: SG
  • Age: 23
  • Size: 6-foot-6, 195 lbs

Antonio Reeves’ scouting profile has its flaws—thin frame, limited athleticism, no playmaking, age 23. They won’t matter much this late for a 6-foot-6 shooter with Reeves’ shotmaking production, efficiency, consistency and shooting versatility.

56. Memphis Grizzlies (via Thunder): Kam Jones

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 51
  • School/Team: Marquette
  • Nationality: American
  • Position: SG
  • Age: 22
  • Size: 6-foot-5, 200 lbs

Potent shotmaking and efficiency at the rim have earned Kam Jones mentions in the second-round discussion. Scouts sound eager to see if he’ll measure close to the 6-foot-5, 200 pounds Marquette lists him at.

57. Denver Nuggets (via Timberwolves): Blake Hinson

  • Previous mock draft spot: No. 58
  • School/Team: Pittsburgh
  • Nationality: American
  • Position: SF
  • Age: 24
  • Size: 6-foot-8, 230 lbs

A second-round team could see a value pick in Blake Hinson, who’ll have a chance to audition for a shooting specialist role with his 6-foot-8 size and averages of 3.4 3-pointers per game on 42.1% shooting.

58. Dallas Mavericks (via Celtics): Jalen Bridges

  • Previous mock draft spot: Off the board
  • Team: Baylor
  • Nationality: American
  • Position: SF/PF
  • Size: 6-foot-9, 225 lbs
  • Age: 22

Teams could start to take Jalen Bridges more seriously now that he’s up to 42.3% from 3-point range. Coming off a career night with 32 points on six-of-seven from deep, he’s showing considerable improvement with his shotmaking, a key development for a 6-foot-9 combo forward who’s always popped defensively.

Jonathan Wasserman is the lead scout and NBA Draft analyst for Bleacher Report. You can follow him on  X, formerly known as Twitter. The views on this page do not necessarily reflect the views of the NBA, its clubs or Warner Brothers Discovery.

Stats courtesy of Synergy Sports and Sports Reference.

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