Matas Buzelis of the G League Ignite continues to be a projected Lottery pick.
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) — Considerable updates have been made to Bleacher Report’s 2024 NBA mock draft board two weeks before conference tournament play.
Freshmen are moving up and/or into our projections for the first time. A number of them, who may be fringe first-rounders, have scouts wondering if they’ll declare this year.
Even some seniors received significant boosts, with a perceived weaker draft possibly influencing NBA teams to feel more comfortable targeting higher-floor, lower-ceiling prospects.
However, nothing has changed with regard to the No. 1 overall discussion, which continues to feel wide open and fit/preference-dependent.
1. Detroit Pistons: Alexandre Sarr
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 1
- Team: Perth Wildcats
- Nationality: French
- Position: PF/C
- Size: 7-foot-1, 216 lbs
- Age: 18
Alexandre Sarr looked like a qualified No. 1 overall candidate during his NBL regular-season debut, finishing with 17 points and multiple ball-handling and face-up moves, live-dribble passes and a pull-up three-point make.
Scouts feel they can bank on his 7-foot-1 size, athleticism and mobility for finishing and defensive versatility. But the flashes of three-point range, dribble jumpers, post fallaways and open-floor handles point to upside few other prospects seem to offer.
While there still isn’t a consensus top pick, he’s solidified himself in the discussion. Whether he’s the choice will come down to eye of the (No. 1 pick’s) beholder and roster fit.
2. Washington Wizards: Nikola Topić
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 3
- Team: KK Crvena Zvezda
- Nationality: Serbian
- Position: PG
- Size: 6-foot-6, 198 lbs
- Age: 18
Scouts are expecting Nikola Topić to return soon from the knee injury he suffered six weeks ago. Opinions on Topić remain very fluid—before he went down, evaluators were previously ready to add another layer of scouting on the 6-foot-6 ball-handler who’d just joined a new team with EuroLeague competition on the schedule.
Leading the Adriatic League in assists and ranking second in scoring helped fuel Topić’s rise into the top-five discussion. He experienced rare success (for his age) at that level creating advantages, slashing, finishing and facilitating, and while his 3-point numbers don’t pop, his shotmaking confidence and free-throw percentages have. Some scouts remain hesitant about whether he has the shiftiness/wiggle, explosion or frame for his scoring to translate.
The Washington Wizards, San Antonio Spurs and Toronto Raptors seem like the most likely destinations for the 18-year-old engine.
3. San Antonio Spurs: 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
While the scouting report on Zaccharie Risacher has changed from season to season, it’s looked the same from September through February. Spot-up shooting, transition finishing and some complementary driving/slashing have fueled most of his scoring production.
The 6-foot-8 size, athleticism, shotmaking and defensive quickness create a high floor and easy fit for most teams. For teams picking at the top, the big question is whether that package comes with enough upside, and if he has a realistic chance at developing into a higher-level on-ball threat in the half court.
While he did show more creation and playmaking in France’s U21 league last season, Bourg-en-Bresse has used him almost exclusively off the ball.
4. Charlotte Hornets: Matas Buzelis
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 7
- Team: Ignite
- Nationality: Lithuanian/American
- Position: SG/SF
- Size: 6-foot-8, 209 lbs
- Age: 19
Coming off a 23-point effort before All-Star break and a game-winner at his first Rising Stars game, Matas Buzelis has some momentum. And now with teammate Ron Holland out for the season, it will be worth revisiting Ignite games and evaluations to learn if Buzelis raises his aggression and looks more comfortable with extra on-ball reps.
A challenge for scouts right now is determining whether to buy the strong 3-point numbers in high school or his underwhelming ones in the G League. He’s been more accurate as of late. There is also debate about whether he’s wired for a top-option role or a supporting one, spotting up from the wings and corners for most of a game.
Believers in Buzelis will see a 6-foot-8 shotmaker with functional ball-handling in transition and ball-screen situations and athleticism for finishing and defensive playmaking. Skeptics will question his shooting reliability, creation and impact.
5. Portland Trail Blazers: Ron Holland
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 4
- School: G League Ignite
- Nationality: American
- Position: SF
- Size: 6-foot-6, 204 lbs
- Age: 18
A thumb injury has convinced Ron Holland to shut it down after 29 games of averaging 19.5 points on 46.0% shooting.
Even with that production at 18 years old, scouts sound more hesitant about his pro outlook than they did heading into the season, mostly due to Ignite going 4-25 when he played, the 24.0% 3-point mark and his 94 turnovers to 84 assists.
However, over-focusing on the negatives means downplaying translatable parts of his game (explosiveness for transition and downhill scoring) and ignoring in-season improvement (handle, body control, decision-making), correctable weakness (shotmaking) and context, with this Ignite group lacking strong supporting veteran play.
NBA teams will look at Holland as a high-floor wing with a path to upside that will have some tougher challenges for a top pick, like turning into a high-level creator and consistent shooter.
6. Toronto Raptors: Cody Williams
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 5
- School: Colorado
- Nationality: American
- Position: SF
- Size: 6-foot-8, 190 lbs
- Age: 19
While the tape still doesn’t show a lot of creation or shooting from Cody Williams, his projected archetype, production and ultra efficiency continue to earn him mentions in the top-five discussion.
Some scouts have an idea that he won’t need to provide high-level ball-handling or shotmaking to keep scoring, given how effective he is using positional size, touch and activity to slash, cut, crash and make spot-up 3s. Strong defensive tools and tape give Williams more cushion, as there is an obvious interest in big wings who can guard forwards and ball-handlers.
7. Memphis Grizzlies: Rob Dillingham
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 6
- School: Kentucky
- Position: PG/SG
- Nationality: American
- Size: 6-foot-3, 176 lbs
- Age: 18
Despite LSU’s buzzer-beating win over Kentucky on Wednesday, Rob Dillingham was able to showcase takeover mode (16 of team’s final 18 points) that NBA teams typically want at least one of their players to be able to activate.
He’s seemingly solidified a draft range and lottery projection with his enticing creativity, consistent shotmaking, shooting versatility and passing flashes. Whether he goes top five or closer to No. 10 will come down to teams’ belief in his lead-guard potential versus the likelihood he’s better suited for a combo or sixth-man role.
Fewer playmaking sequences, struggles at the rim and poor defense highlight the concerns over his 176-pound frame and score-first mentality. On the other hand, scouts don’t have any questions about his ability to create, bury tough jumpers (from on and off ball) and use his gravity to open up shots for teammates.
8. Houston Rockets (via Nets): Reed Sheppard
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 8
- School: Kentucky
- Nationality: American
- Position: SG
- Size: 6-foot-3, 187 lbs
- Age: 19
Reed Sheppard has earned a high-floor, low-ceiling label, which will look more attractive in a draft that’s lacking high-ceiling prospects.
While he occasionally fades into the background of Kentucky’s deep offense, he’s been more aggressive over the past month, and it’s illuminated some encouraging creation ability into drives and pull-ups. Showing he has some burst to blow by and the ability to knock down dribble jumpers help scouts picture more upside than just a connector.
Regardless, there will be widespread interest in Sheppard’s shooting, passing and defensive instincts, all of which have looked extremely convincing.
9. Atlanta Hawks: Kyle Filipowski
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 9
- School: Duke
- Nationality: American
- Position: PF/C
- Size: 7-foot, 248 lbs
- Age: 20
Improved shooting, passing and shot-blocking lessen Kyle Filipowski’s need to create.
Scoring potential isn’t his selling point. It’s versatility with his ability to space the floor at 7-foot, facilitate from the post, grab and go in transition and move well defensively. Filipowski is looking more and more like a lock for the mid-to-late lottery.
10. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Rockets): Devin Carter
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 18
- School/team: Providence
- Nationality: American
- Position: PG/SG
- Size: 6-foot-3, 195 lbs
- Age: 21
Now with six games of at least 25 points since New Year’s Day, Devin Carter continues to open scouts’ minds to new NBA projections and possible archetypes. He looked more like a defensive energizer with some streaky shotmaking earlier in the season. But the scoring outbursts are now occurring regularly. He’s self-creating into jumpers. He’s becoming one of the nation’s most effective ball-screen operators with his command, change of pace and craftiness. And he’s been ultra efficient shooting off both spot-ups and screens.
Outlier guard stats like 8.2 rebounds and 0.9 blocks per game only help separate Carter further. On an off night Wednesday on the road against Xavier, he still grabbed 11 boards and swatted four shots (to go with 22 points and six assists). It’s becoming time to update his projected NBA role and ceiling.
11. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Jazz): Johnny Furphy
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 21
- School/Team: Kansas
- Nationality: Australian
- Position: Small forward
- Size: 6-foot-9, 202lbs
- Age: 19
With 15 points on three-of-five from deep against Oklahoma, Johnny Furphy ended a three-game slump and the possible idea that the hot shooting this month has been fluky. Despite limited creation and passing flashes, at 6-foot-9, his shotmaking, athletic play-finishing and defense have scouts picturing an easy fit and potential lottery pick.
12. Chicago Bulls: Ja’Kobe Walter
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 10
- School/Team: Baylor
- Nationality: American
- Position: SG
- Size: 6-foot-5, 195 lbs
- Age: 19
A falling 3-point percentage won’t cause scouts to stop seeing an NBA shotmaker in Ja’Kobe Walter. Dating back to high school, the eye test shows a versatile shooter with impressive positional tools and some extra ability to hit tough runners. It’s the lack of creation and playmaking that raises some concern and highlights the importance of Walter being able to consistently knock down jumpers. Over Baylor’s last 13 games, he’s just 19-of-80 from deep with 21 assists.
13. Portland Trail Blazers (via Warriors): Donovan Clingan
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 11
- School: Connecticut
- Nationality: American
- Position: C
- Size: 7-foot-2, 280 lbs
- Age: 19
Donovan Clingan’s scoring has been up lately, but it’s still his rim protection that will push lottery teams to consider him. He’s looking slimmer than the preseason 280-pound weight listing suggests. And at 7-foot-2, Clingan still offers an appealing mix of size, strength, mobility and anticipation for interior and pick-and-roll defense. He’s going to require the right team that’s either looking for a starting center—and there aren’t many—or one willing to use an early pick on a backup.
14. New Orleans Pelicans (via Lakers): Terrence Shannon Jr.
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 20
- School/team: Illinois
- Nationality: American
- Position: SG/SF
- Size: 6-foot-6, 225 lbs
- Age: 23
Terrence Shannon Jr. has quickly found a rhythm since returning to the floor, lighting up defenses with his effective mix of rim pressure and shotmaking. He’s averaging 30.3 points over Illinois’ last four. Some games he’s burying jumpers; others he’s getting to the basket and free-throw line over 13 times.
Scouts have bought into Shannon’s breakout play this year, with the 6-foot-6 wing looking more reliable from outside and more threatening handling the ball and attacking.
Regardless, his draft stock will be fully tied to his May 10 hearing for a September rape allegation.
15. Orlando Magic: Yves Missi
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 10
- School: Baylor
- Nationality: Cameroon
- Position: C
- Size: 7-foot-0, 235 lbs
- Age: 19
Yves Missi’s elite finishing comes from both length and athleticism to catch lobs, but also impressive coordination and adjustment on face-up drives. He’s poised to be a high-percentage target, threat in space around the key and defensive disruptor around the basket. While his archetype provides minimal versatility, it’s perceived to have a high success/translatability rate in the right role with enough supporting scoring and playmaking.
16. Miami Heat: Dalton Knecht
- Previous mock draft spot: 13
- School: Tennessee
- Nationality: American
- Position: SF
- Size: 6-foot-6, 204 lbs
- Age: 22
There are always a few prospects each year who sway teams to look past age. Despite turning 23 before the draft, Dalton Knecht will have numerous first-round suitors who see too sure of a thing with his positional size, shotmaking, toughness attacking the rim and business-like mentality. Upside won’t matter as much in the late teens and 20s to teams more interested in adding a surefire shooter and rotation player.
17. Toronto Raptors (via Pacers): Isaiah Collier
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 19
- School: USC
- Nationality: American
- Position: PG
- Size: 6-foot-5, 210 lbs
- Age: 19
Isaiah Collier has been highly productive since returning from a hand injury, showing scouts his signature shiftiness and physicality downhill, flashy passing and improved decision-making.
It’s still difficult to buy his nearly set jump shot and pull-up, and at the next level, being heavily dependent on driving and strength will work against him. NBA teams figure to use Collier as a bench spark to begin his career until his shooting improves and the game slows down for the turnover-prone ball-handler.
18. Atlanta Hawks (via Kings): Jaylon Tyson
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 29
- Team: California
- Nationality: American
- Position: SF/PF
- Size: 6-foot-7, 215 lbs
- Age: 21
Jaylon Tyson keeps pumping out huge scoring outputs with the type of self-creation and three-level shotmaking that’s limited in the projected 2024 draft field. It’s worth questioning his enormous usage and future transition to more off-ball reps at the NBA level. But at 6-foot-7, 215 pounds, he’s too skilled on/with the ball, including as a secondary playmaker, for NBA teams to overthink his offensive effectiveness.
19. New York Knicks (via Mavs): Jared McCain
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 27
- School/Team: Duke
- Nationality: American
- Position: SG
- Size: 6-foot-3, 197 lbs
- Age: 19
Jared McCain’s eight made 3s versus Florida State highlighted NBA range, self-creation footwork, escape dribbles into pull-ups, transition shooting and a quick-release trigger. His shotmaking is advanced enough for teams to look past his underwhelming physical tools and athleticism, though he has demonstrated a level of craftiness with his handle and finishes to provide some extra on-ball creation and scoring value.
20. Philadelphia 76ers: Ulrich Chomche
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 16
- 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.
21. New York Knicks: Tyler Smith
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 18
- Team: Ignite
- Nationality: American
- Position: PF
- Size: 6-foot-11, 224 lbs
- Age: 19
Tyler Smith entered the All-Star break coming off his best game of the season with 29 points against a Mad Ants team that featured 2023 lottery pick Jarace Walker and former pro Jordan Bell. Now at 39.2% from 3, he is making a top-20 case with impressive shooting consistency and convincing touch for a 6-foot-11 19-year-old.
22. Phoenix Suns: Dillon Jones
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 29
- School/Team: Weber State
- Nationality: American
- Position: SG/SF
- Size: 6-foot-6, 235 lbs
- Age: 22
Dillon Jones continues to put up rare stat lines on a routine basis, most recently following a 29-point, nine-assist, six-rebound game against Idaho with 30 points, eight assists and eight boards versus Eastern Washington. Skeptics will question how his creation translates at 235 pounds and if he has the right skill set to play off the ball. But one team in the 20s or 30s will see too much production and versatility to bet on.
23. New Orleans Pelicans: Kel’el Ware
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 22
- School: Indiana
- Nationality: American
- Position: C
- Size: 7-foot, 242 lbs
- Age: 19
From an individual performance standpoint, Kel’el Ware continues to take care of business against the lower-level opponents. But in five games against Purdue (two), Kansas, Auburn and Connecticut, he’s a combined 14-of-43 (32.6%). There will be NBA teams who see too much natural talent at 7-foot, verticality, post skill and shooting range to nitpick in the Nos. 15-30 range. And there will be others turned off by the constant questioning of his toughness and wavering impact. Draft workouts ultimately create an ideal setting for Ware to entice teams with his physical tools, athleticism and touch.
24. Milwaukee Bucks: Stephon Castle
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 15
- School: Connecticut
- Nationality: American
- Position: SG
- Size: 6-foot-6, 215 lbs
- Age: 19
Stephon Castle mixing productive games with quiet ones has divided scouts. The appeal stems from his physical profile, passing, defense and ability to handle and finish through contact. Poor shooting on low volume and limited creation have made it difficult to fully buy in. His point-wing archetype and two-way outlook will look enticing, regardless of what the stats say. But he’s going to need a patient team that’s accepting of his flaws and timetable.
25. Denver Nuggets: Kevin McCullar Jr.
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 23
- School: Kansas
- Nationality: American
- Position: SG/SF
- Size: 6-foot-7, 214 lbs
- Age: 22
Kevin McCullar Jr.’s age and lack of a signature skill make it difficult to detect upside. But he’s won scouts over this year with his well-roundedness and on- and off-ball versatility. Defense was always a selling point for the 6-foot-7 wing who can guard various archetypes. But now teams see a surefire NBA role player who can be used to attack open floors and closeouts, actively cut for easy baskets, drive-and-kick, score off screens and provide threatening-enough spot-up shooting.
26. Washington Wizards (via Clippers): Tijane Salaun
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 11
- Team: Cholet
- Nationality: French
- Position: PF
- Size: 6-foot-8, 212 lbs
- Age: 18
Age, production, size/athleticism and shotmaking are behind the Tijane Salaun love. He’s still not advanced in any area, but he shoots with admirable confidence for a 6-foot-8 18-year-old. Between LNB Pro A and Basketball Champions League, he’s made 49 3s in 34 games and 78.9% of his free throws. Low assist, rebounding and defensive playmaking rates point to limited margin for error with his shot development.
27. Cleveland Cavaliers: Tristan da Silva
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 25
- School/Team: Colorado
- Nationality: German/Brazilian
- Position: SF/PF
- Size: 6-foot-9, 220 lbs
- Age: 22
Positional size, projectable shooting, a high skill level, smart passes and consistent production help create a high floor and sense of safety around Tristan da Silva. The questions ask about how much limited explosion and physicality will limit him inside the arc as a scorer, rebounder and defender. While those questions can make it tough to detect upside, there will be certain teams in the 20s and 30s willing to settle on a high-IQ, 6-foot-9 shotmaker, even if the post offense and drives don’t translate.
28. Utah Jazz (via Thunder): Ryan Dunn
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 21
- School: Virginia
- Nationality: American
- Position: SF/PF
- Size: 6-foot-8, 216 lbs
- Age: 20
The scouting report on Ryan Dunn hasn’t changed all season. Drafting him will mean valuing rare defensive playmaking and accepting a non-offensive threat. Over Virginia’s last seven games, he’s totaled 14 field goals and 18 blocks, numbers that reflect how much of an outlier Dunn is for a wing or forward.
29. Minnesota Timberwolves: KJ Simpson
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 22
- School: Colorado
- Nationality: American
- Position: Guard
- Size: 6-foot-2, 189 lbs
- Age: 21
KJ Simpson will have teams divided on his ultra effectiveness/efficiency and limited physical tools and burst for an NBA point guard. At some point of the draft, a team has to buy the shotmaking, playmaking efficiency and the uptick in success stories of NBA ball-handlers who are thriving with skill, feel and touch over speed and explosion. As of February 21, he’s averaging 19.2 points, 4.7 assists and 2.2 turnovers on an outstanding 61.9% true shooting.
30. Boston Celtics: Collin Murray-Boyles
- Previous mock draft spot: Off the board
- School: South Carolina
- Nationality: American
- Position: PF
- Size: 6-foot-7, 231 lbs
- Age: 18
A newer potential one-and-done name scouts are starting to consider, Collin Murray-Boyles is producing his way into the draft discussion with strength, quickness, motor, great hands and instincts. Second among freshmen in box plus-minus, per Barttorvik, he was gaining steam before a 31-point explosion against Vanderbilt. Scouts acknowledge that he isn’t the most modernized forward, as he lacks a jump shot and much perimeter skill. But at 18 years old, he’s proved to be highly advanced in a few areas, specifically attacking from the short corners and elbows, playing and finishing through contact, earning second-chance points and sliding defensively. And given his body type, age and movement, it’s becoming easy to picture these parts of his game translating and providing value.
31. Toronto Raptors (via Pistons): Bobi Klintman
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 28
- Team: Cairns Taipans
- Nationality: Swedish
- Position: SF/PF
- Age: 20
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 three and guard 3s and 4s should earn him looks in the 20s and 30s.
32. Utah Jazz (via Wizards) Oso Ighodaro
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 34
- School/team: Marquette
- Nationality: American
- Position: C
- Size: 6-foot-11, 235 lbs
- Age: 21
Averaging 13.0 points, 8.4 boards, 4.2 assists and 2.0 blocks over Marquette’s last five games, Oso Ighodaro’s unique package of finishing athleticism, passing, touch shots and defensive mobility have been on full display lately. He checks a unique mix of boxes to create versatility that will cause teams to look past the non-shooting and average rim protection.
33. San Antonio Spurs: Zach Edey
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 42
- School/team: Purdue
- Nationality: Canadian
- Position: C
- Size: 7-foot-4, 300 lbs
- Age: 21
There may be more teams than not that aren’t drawn to Zach Edey’s NBA outlook. Recent history suggests avoiding players over 7-foot-3 or in the 300-pound range, particularly in the first round. All it takes is one team to see size, power, footwork and touch that’s simply too advantageous for post scoring, offensive rebounding and shot-blocking. But at this stage, we’re still operating under the assumption that teams in the teens and 20s will rather gamble on guards, wings, forwards or bigs with some floor-spacing ability or defensive switchability.
34. Portland Trail Blazers (via Hornets): Pelle Larsson
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 32
- School/Team: Arizona
- Nationality: Swedish
- Position: SF
- Size: 6-foot-6, 215 lbs
- Age: 22
Pelle Larsson’s versatility screams easy NBA fit with 42.5% spot-up shooting and a strong ball-screen package of slashing, smart passing and an improved pull-up. There is a sense of maturity about his game that could look more attractive to playoff teams looking for plug-and-play role players.
35. Milwaukee Bucks (via Blazers): Melvin Ajinça
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 37
- Team/nationality: Saint-Quentin
- Nationality: French
- Position: SG/SF
- Size: 6-foot-7
- Age: 19
Melvin Ajinça’s shotmaking at the U19 World Cup earned him a spot on watch lists, and he’s continued to hit 3s at a strong rate for a 19-year-old in LNB Pro A. But one total assist through December, January and February says a lot about his spot-up-heavy role and lack of creation.
36. Philadelphia 76ers (via Raptors): Hunter Sallis
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 46
- School/team: Wake Forest
- Nationality: American
- Position: SG
- Size: 6-foot-5, 185 lbs
- Age: 20
Hunter Sallis’ breakout year has gone uninterrupted. In February, he’s 15-of-27 from 3. Aside from how smooth the creation, three-level shotmaking and athletic finishing have looked, it’s the consistency that’s made these improvements look so convincing. There are NBA teams who’ll read numbers and their own eye-test assessments and see an NBA scoring and shooting 2-guard.
37. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Grizzlies): Kyshawn George
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 26
- School/team: Miami
- Nationality: Switzerland
- Position: SG/SF
- Size: 6-foot-8, 205 lbs
- Age: 20
Kyshawn George is coming off consecutive rough performances against Duke and Boston College that exposed his lack of physicality and polish. He hasn’t produced like a typical one-and-done freshman, but scouts believe there will be teams willing to stay patient with George and invest early on his enticing archetype: a big-wing ball-handler shooting 39.6% from 3.
38. Memphis Grizzlies (via Blazers): Harrison Ingram
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 37
- School/team: North Carolina
- Nationality: American
- Position: SF
- Size: 6-foot-7, 235 lbs
- Age: 21
Improved shotmaking has made Harrison Ingram’s NBA fit clearer, as teams can now picture an interchangeable on/off-ball forward capable of spacing the floor or making plays in ball-screen situations. He projects as a forward whose shooting, passing and defensive tools could work in a connector role between a team’s primary scorers.
39. Portland Trail Blazers (via Hawks): Adem Bona
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 40
- School/team: UCLA
- Nationality: Turkish/Nigerian
- Position: C
- Size: 6-foot-10, 245 lbs
- Age: 20
Adem Bona will draw interest from teams looking to add rim protection and rotational energy. Despite an uptick in his post usage at UCLA, he’ll be used exclusively for interior and pick-and-roll defense and picking up easy baskets off transition, lobs and putbacks.
40. Charlotte Hornets (via Rockets): Ajay Mitchell
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 33
- School/Team: UC Santa Barbara
- Nationality: Belgian
- Position: PG
- Size: 6-foot-5, 190 lbs
- Age: 21
There would be more love for Ajay Mitchell if UC Santa Barbara was better than sixth in the Big West. As the second round moves along, it’s going to become tough to resist the highly productive, 6-foot-5 ball-handler who has a special knack for getting to spots and executing with shotmaking, touch shots and finishing adjustments.
41. New York Knicks (via Jazz): Jamal Shead
- Previous mock draft spot: Off the board
- School: Houston
- Nationality: American
- Position: PG
- Size: 6-foot-1, 200 lbs
- Age: 21
One of the nation’s premier guard defenders, Jamal Shead is now averaging 18.5 points with 17 made 3s over Houston’s last 10 games. His defensive pressure, toughness and playmaking instincts will keep the bar low for Shead offensively. But the offense is catching up. Shead’s creation, passing, shotmaking and floater game are starting to look threatening enough for a guard who’s going to earn minutes/money by locking down and forcing turnovers.
42. Boston Celtics (via Bulls): Payton Sandfort
- Previous mock draft spot: Off the board
- School/team: Iowa
- Nationality: American
- Position: SF
- Size: 6-foot-7, 215 lbs
- Age: 20
At 6-foot-7, Payton Sandfort’s shotmaking has looked advanced, versatile and accurate enough for teams to picture a useful off-ball weapon burying dribble-handoff and movement jumpers and runners. And though not a creator or strong athlete, he’s been outstanding hitting pull-ups (45.7%) and executing around the basket (64.4%).
43. Houston Rockets (via Warriors): DaRon Holmes II
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 50
- School: Dayton
- Nationality: American
- Position: C
- Size: 6-foot-10, 235 lbs
- Age: 21
DaRon Holmes II is delivering on scouts’ desire to see an updated, modernized big by making 26 3s, handling the ball more and raising his assist rate by a considerable margin. That’s still all bonus in the second round, as Holmes’ moneymaker will be his tools and athleticism for finishing and shot-blocking.
44. San Antonio Spurs (via Lakers): Adama Bal
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 42
- School: Santa Clara
- Nationality: French
- Position: SG/SF
- Size: 6-foot-7, 190 lbs
- Age: 20
There should NBA interest in a 6-foot-7 wing who’s developed into one of the nation’s most efficient pick-and-roll ball-handlers and spot-up scorers. There will be skeptics who question Adama Bal’s quickness and athleticism for the NBA, but his physical tools, shotmaking and secondary playmaking have been highly effective, and he helped avoid questions about a WCC schedule with strong games against Oregon, Stanford, Utah State and Gonzaga.
45. Miami Heat: PJ Hall
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 41
- School/team: Clemson
- Nationality: American
- Position: PF/C
- Size: 6-foot-10, 238 lbs
- Age: 21
Now 11-of-26 from 3 over Clemson’s last five games, PJ Hall continues to sell the idea of a pick-and-pop big with post-up abilities. The ability to create and score playing back to the basket, hit spot-up 3s and add some rim protection should be enough to compete for a rotation spot.
46. Orlando Magic: Pacome Dadiet
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 53
- Team: Ratiopharm Ulm
- Nationality: French
- Position: SF/PF
- Size: 6-foot-8, 210lbs
- Age: 18
Pacome Dadiet hit three-of-four 3s in Ulm’s last outing against EuroLeague opponent Bayern Munich, another promising sign that helps boost his shotmaking credibility and chances of going earlier in the second round. A team could see a long-term fit in a 6-foot-8, 18-year-old 3-point threat who’s comfortable and effective moving/scoring off the ball and sliding defensively with wings.
47. LA Clippers (via Pacers): Tyler Kolek
- Previous mock draft spot: Off the board
- School: Marquette
- Nationality: American
- Position: PG
- Size: 6-foot-3, 195 lbs
- Age: 22
While teams with backup point guards will likely pass on Tyler Kolek, he’s becoming a must-consider name for a rotation that could use an extra ball-handler or playmaker. Even if physical/athletic issues create skepticism over his recent scoring outbursts translating, he’s proved to be savvy and skilled enough in ball-screen situations with the ability to generate offense with his passing and floater. Being an excellent spot-up shooter helps make up for some of his struggles making jump shots off the dribble.
48. Sacramento Kings: Alex Karaban
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 47
- School/team: Connecticut
- Nationality: American
- Position: SF
- Size: 6-foot-8, 220 lbs
- Age: 21
Alex Karaban’s fit remains a big selling point for teams interested in adding a stretch forward and complementary shotmaker. Consecutive seasons over 40.0% from 3 has scouts’ attention, but it’s shooting versatility, cutting, floater touch and defensive foot speed that give him an edge over the specialists.
49. Boston Celtics (via Mavs): Baylor Scheierman
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 56
- School: Creighton
- Nationality: American
- Position: SF
- Size: 6-foot-7, 205 lbs
- Age: 23
The games that Baylor Scheierman isn’t scoring 20 points, he’s approaching triple-doubles with his passing and rebounding. In all likelihood, limited quickness and explosiveness will restrict his two-point scoring at the next level, but at 6-foot-7, his shooting, playmaking and some physicality look right for a connector role.
50: Indiana Pacers (via Pelicans): Izan Almansa
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 43
- Team: Ignite
- Nationality: Spanish
- Position: PF/C
- Size: 6-foot-10, 230 lbs
- Age: 18
Izan Almansa’s production has been up—he’s just not earning it with exciting skill or athletic plays. A team with a second-round pick figures to put extra stock into FIBA tape that showed more face-up and shooting flashes. Regardless, the draw to Almansa is his play-finishing tools and instincts, specifically the ability to consistently position himself for easy baskets from off the ball.
51. Washington Wizards (via Suns): Judah Mintz
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 49
- School/team: Syracuse
- Nationality: American
- Position: PG/SG
- Size: 6-foot-4, 185 lbs
- Age: 20
Judah Mintz’s underwhelming 3-point shot remains relatively unchanged since last year, but he’s still appealing in the right capacity for his ability to pressure the rim, play-make off ball screens and create turnovers. And though he lacks range, he’s still a threatening, tough shotmaker off the dribble who’s been efficient on a low volume of catch-and-shoot attempts.
52. Detroit Pistons (via Knicks): Trey Alexander
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 52
- School/team: Creighton
- Nationality: American
- Position: SG
- Size: 6-foot-4, 190 lbs
- Age: 20
Trey Alexander helped his case in Creighton’s win over No. 1 Connecticut with a well-rounded display of self-creation, three-level shotmaking, pick-and-roll play and passing. While there are obvious questions about how well his execution will translate due to his limited frame, slower movement and lack of explosion, he’s proved to be too skilled and versatile of a scorer, shooter and secondary ball-handler to nitpick this late in the second round.
53. Indiana Pacers (via Bucks): Tyrese Proctor
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 45
- School/Team: Duke
- Nationality: Australian
- Position: PG
- Size: 6-foot-5, 183 lbs
- Age: 19
Not enough has changed with Tyrese Proctor’s creation or burst for teams to see a first-round pick. But he still deserves looks in the second round with a mix of shotmaking potential and passing IQ, a combination that is suited for a backcourt connector role.
54. Indiana Pacers (via Cavs): Trevon Brazile
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 55
- School/Team: Arkansas
- Nationality: American
- Position: PF/C
- Size: 6-foot-10, 220 lbs
- Age: 20
Knee soreness continues to keep Trevon Brazile out, a slight worry for a player who tore his ACL last season. Medicals will play a role in his draft stock. A healthy Brazile could flirt with first-round interest, given his exciting mix of size, explosiveness and shooting potential. Scouts haven’t seen it consistently enough, and now there are questions about his injuries and recovery.
55. Los Angeles Lakers (via Clippers): DJ Wagner
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 36
- School/Team: Kentucky
- Nationality: American
- Position: PG/SG
- Size: 6-foot-4, 192 lbs
- Age: 18
It’s getting tougher to make a first-round case for DJ Wagner, who’s finished without a three-pointer or double-digit scoring outputs in five consecutive games. There will be certain teams willing to look past this season and put more stock into his high school accolades, particularly given the track record of Kentucky prospects. The main draw to Wagner is his ability to attack and put pressure on the defense and rim.
56. Memphis Grizzlies (via Thunder): Coleman Hawkins
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 48
- Team: Illinois
- Nationality: American
- Position: PF
- Size: 6-foot-10, 225 lbs
- Age: 22
Coleman Hawkins checks the right mix of boxes with his 6-foot-10 size, 38.7% 3-point shooting, obvious passing IQ and defensive mobility. He’ll have suitors who buy the fit despite his particular archetype, which is well-defined as a connective, stretch-4 ball-mover.
57. Denver Nuggets (via Timberwolves): Antonio Reeves
- Previous mock draft spot: Off the board
- School/Team: Kentucky
- Nationality: American
- Position: SG
- Size: 6-foot-6, 195 lbs
- Age: 23
Antonio Reeves’ shotmaking figures to earn him a two-way contract next year. Regardless of age, athletic limitations and a lack of real playmaking ability, he’ll have a chance at the NBA level with his 6-foot-6 size, 44.4% 3-point shooting and one of the best floaters in the nation.
58. Dallas Mavericks (via Celtics): Johni Broome
- Previous mock draft spot: Off the board
- School/Team: Auburn
- Nationality: American
- Position: C
- Size: 6-foot-10, 240 lbs
- Age: 21
Johni Broome is up to 20 made 3s this year, an interesting development for a 6-foot-10, 240-pound big who rebounds and blocks shots at excellent rates. The shooting development will need to be real for Broome to hold enough offensive value at the next level, but it’s worth a pick in the 50s to find out for a team searching for frontcourt depth/toughness.
* * *
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.
