2024 NBA Draft on B/R

Bleacher Report: Updated Big Board ranking the top 101 prospects

Bleacher Report's Jonathan Wasserman has an updated ranking of every potential 2024 Draft prospect.

Jonathan Wasserman, Bleacher Report

January 16, 2024 5:51 PM

Duke center Kyle Filipowski’s improved finishing this season has him climbing up Draft boards.

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) — Though only 60 players will get selected in the 2024 NBA draft, teams prepare boards with at least 100 names.

After the second round, front offices are ready to fill their Summer League and training camp rosters with prospects who didn’t hear their name called. Ranking 100+ players also means thinking long-term about younger prospects who might be ready for the upcoming draft.

Some of the following players may look more like returners for the 2025 draft. But teams still like to get familiar with them early or even think about drafting them now before they rise for other teams next season.

In order, these are the 101 prospects we’d pick in a vacuum if the Draft were three to four rounds long.

101. Xaivian Lee (Princeton, PG/SG, Sophomore)

Size: 6-foot-3, 171 lbs
Age: 19

Lee will get overlooked due to his 171-pound frame and strength of schedule in the Ivy League. But the ways he’s earning his 18.1 points and 3.6 assists show a player who’s figuring out how to offset physical disadvantages with ball-handling moves, change of direction, shotmaking and tough finishes. He’s very shifty when creating space and crafty off the dribble with obvious passing IQ. But Lee has also developed into an excellent catch-and-shoot weapon, which could help give him a fighter’s chance at fitting in with enough backcourt versatility.

100. Cade Tyson (Belmont, SF, Sophomore)

Size: 6-foot-7, 205 lbs
Age: 20

Making 51.9% of his jumpers off screens and 43.8% of his pull-ups, Tyson has the accuracy and the shotmaking versatility to separate him from other shooters. He won’t offer much else, but he might not need to as a 6-foot-7 wing who’s comfortable firing off movement and defending the perimeter.

99. Jamal Shead (Houston, PG, Senior)

Size: 6-foot-1, 200 lbs
Age: 21

The idea of Shead in the NBA means picturing an outlier who’ll add value with his playmaking, defense and motor. He could pose just enough of a scoring threat with his signature floater and a capable shot. But the best number to explain Shead’s differentiator factor is his 12 blocks in 15 games as a 6-foot-1 guard.

98. Tristen Newton (Connecticut, PG, Senior)

Size: 6-foot-5, 195 lbs
Age: 22

Feel for the game, toughness and improvisation give Newton his edge and a chance to compete for an NBA roster spot without athleticism or reliable shooting. He plays at his own pace, runs offense and facilitates, rebounds for the position and picks his spots for when to attack or use the floater. He’s adaptable and a frequent plus, whether he’s scoring or not.

97. Tyler Harris (Portland, SF, Freshman)

Size: 6-foot-8, 190 lbs
Age: 18

Harris will start to draw more scouts to Portland, as the 6-foot-8 freshman deserves attention for his early production and scoring versatility at 6-foot-8. He’s shown off a nice mix of spot-up shooting, half-court improvisation and open-floor ball-handling.

96. Johnell Davis (Florida Atlantic, PG/SG, Junior)

Size: 6-foot-4, 203 lbs
Age: 22

Coming off last year’s Final Four run, Davis looks more prepared for the 2024 draft with his three-point mark up to 44.1%. Despite his 35-point game against Arizona, he still shouldn’t be looked at as a lead guard or scorer at the next level. Versatility represents his edge. His best shot in the NBA will be as an interchangeable jack-of-all-trades: A pick-and-roll handler, spot-up shooter, ball-mover and cutter.

95. Aaron Scott (North Texas, SF, Junior)

Size: 6-foot-7, 200 lbs
Age: 20

Defensive versatility and relentless shot-contesting will help Scott earn NBA looks and potential minutes. He’s also upped his three-point rate this year while staying above 40%. He needs the shooting improvement to keep going, however, given his limitations as a creator and two-point scorer/finisher.

94. Branden Carlson (Utah, C, Senior)

Size: 7-foot-0, 220 lbs
Age: 24

Carlson may be a long shot to get drafted at 24 years old. He will get picked up for summer league, where he’ll have a chance to sell teams on his high skill level and unique shotmaking versatility for a 7-footer.

93. Somto Cyril (Overtime Elite, C, 2005)

Size: 6-foot-10, 249 lbs
Age: 18

Though committed to Kentucky, Cyril is eligible to declare in 2024. At this stage, drafting him this June means simply taking outstanding physical tools for finishing and shot-blocking. There is some guesswork with how he’ll transition, develop and read the game moving from Overtime to college and the pros.

92. JT Toppin (New Mexico, PF/C, Freshman)

Size: 6-foot-9, 210 lbs
Age: 18

The analytics love Toppin’s defensive playmaking rates and box plus-minus. Though limited offensively, he’s an interesting prospect to track due to his 6-foot-9, 210-pound size, mobility, production (20.7 points, 12.6 boards, 2.5 blocks, 2.1 steals per 40) and knack for being in the right place at the right time.

91. Antonio Reeves (Kentucky, SG, Senior)

Size: 6-foot-6, 195 lbs
Age: 23

Reeves has been too productive to look past due to his age, lack of versatility and athletic limitations. He figures to put up numbers in summer league and the NBA G League with his shotmaking and scoring craft. Reeves has been an accurate catch-and-shoot wing this year, including off screens, and one of the best floaters in the nation (16-of-29) should help offset explosion problems in the lane.

90. Aday Mara (UCLA, C, Freshman)

Size: 7-foot-3, 240 lbs
Age: 18

Mara’s play in FIBA hasn’t translated to UCLA, where he’s locked out of the rotation for reasons that would also keep him off an NBA floor. His defensive mobility and decision-making have been poor, but with short touch, some post footwork and the occasional high-level pass, he still possesses some interesting skills for a 7-foot-3 big.

89. Jonas Aidoo (Tennessee, C, Junior)

Size: 6-foot-11, 241 lbs
Age: 21

The initial draw to Aidoo is his defensive outlook, given his physical tools, ability to cover ground and airspace and enough lateral ability to look comfortable containing in space. He’s missing an offensive strength for the NBA, but he has had some random, big scoring outputs using soft touch with his one-handers around the key.

88. Kam Jones (Marquette, SG, Junior)

Size: 6-foot-5, 200 lbs
Age: 21

Teams will give thought to adding Jones’ shotmaking, and at 6-foot-5, 200 pounds, he’s also a tough slasher and crafty finisher. There just isn’t much on-ball upside, playmaking or versatility to his game.

87. Payton Sandfort (Iowa, SF, Junior)

Size: 6-foot-7, 215 lbs
Age: 21

Sandfort’s shooting could be worth targeting, given his 6-foot-7 size and high-volume shotmaking versatility — plus 2.8 assists per game that highlight some ball-moving value and IQ. His job description would have to be simple: make jumpers, pass and play mistake-free.

86. Johnny Furphy (Kansas, SF, Freshman)

Size: 6-foot-9, 202 lbs
Age: 19

It already feels like Furphy should be on breakout watch for the 2024-25 season. He’s playing a limited role, almost exclusively out of spot-ups, but he’s still standing out with his 6-foot-9 size, athleticism and shooting stroke. He’s made all four of his pull-ups and shown some touch in the lane, but maximizing his draft stock likely means returning to Kansas for more shots next season.

85. David Jones (Memphis, SF, Senior)

Size: 6-foot-6, 210 lbs
Age: 22

Averaging 20.7 points for No. 13 Memphis, Jones has been tough to miss this year. The question is whether he has one skill or strength that’s above average for the NBA. His improving shotmaking and power/footwork attacking downhill give him his best chance to score as a transition and spot-up player at the next level.

84. Dillon Mitchell (Texas, PF, Sophomore)

Size: 6-foot-8, 205 lbs
Age: 20

The excitement around Mitchell’s future has faded, but he’s made some subtle improvements to his core-strength package that could still give him a chance to find an NBA role. Play-finishing, offensive rebounding and defensive playmaking will be his calling cards. He can sprinkle in some smart passes here and there, too, but his handle and shot are too far away to bank on.

83. Jamir Watkins (Florida State, SF, Redshirt Junior)

Size: 6-foot-7, 210 lbs
Age: 22

It’s easy to poke holes in a scouting report that shows a wing who struggles to create and shoot. Watkins’ quick first step and physical slashing, passing IQ and defense should give him a chance at a glue-guy role. He makes nearly a three-pointer per game, and just becoming a capable spot-up shooter could unlock enough versatility for Watkins to find a spot.

82. Alex Toohey (Sydney Kings, SF, 2004)

Size: 6-foot-8, 212 lbs
Age: 19

Toohey hasn’t been overly efficient in one area this year, but the archetype and intangibles may be worth betting on for the longer term. He’s a capable spot-up shooter, threat to attack closeouts and active cutter — a potential workable skill set for off-ball scoring in the NBA. His feel and competitiveness are strong. Toohey will just have to knock down threes and finish at better rates over the next few years.

81. Brandon Garrison (Oklahoma State, C, Freshman)

Size: 6-foot-11, 245 lbs
Age: 19

The long-term scouting scope sees pro potential in Garrison, who isn’t producing enough right now to warrant 2024 draft consideration. However, he left a significant imprint on Saturday’s Baylor game, using his tools, motor and timing to rack up 20 points, eight boards and four blocks. Obvious passing IQ helps separate Garrison from bigs of a similar type, but his finishing, rebounding and defense seem like they’ll translate at some point.

80. Sion James (Tulane, SG/SF, Junior)

Size: 6-foot-6, 220 lbs
Age: 21

At 6-foot-6, 220 pounds, James popped last year at Tulane with his NBA frame, secondary playmaking and defensive highlights-creating events. We can take him more seriously now that he’s shooting 43.4% from three and finishing plays inside the arc at an outstanding 65.6% clip. James grades in the 99th percentile in spot-up situations, but he’s still a low-volume shooter with limited handles and explosion for blowing by or creating separation around the rim.

79. Tyler Kolek (Marquette, PG, Senior)

Age: 22, Junior
Size: 6-foot-3, 195 lbs

NBA teams looking for extra playmaking could target Tyler Kolek, a pick-and-roll specialist with some unteachable feel and passing IQ in ball-screen situations. The fact that he’s a 43.3% catch-and-shooter gives him some versatility to provide off-ball shotmaking as well, though athletic and physical limitations may hurt his ability to create and separate, finish and defend.

78. Nikola Djurisic (Mega MIS, SG/SF, 2004)

Age: 19
Size: 6-foot-7, 214 lbs

Djurisic just scored a season-high 18 points in Mega’s first game without potential top-five pick Nikola Topic, who transferred to Crvena Zvezda. Despite another year of inconsistent shooting, it’s still worth tracking Djurisic and staying patient, given his shoot-dribble-pass skill set for a 6-foot-7 19-year-old. The next few months without Topic will allow him to be more aggressive and start reselling scouts on his scoring and shotmaking.

77. Layden Blocker (Arkansas, PG, Freshman)

Size: 6-foot-2, 175 lbs
Age: 18

Arkansas’ recent addition of Keyon Menifield Jr. knocked Blocker out of the rotation. High school tape and brief freshman flashes still show an interesting guard prospect who makes an impact with rim pressure, defense and off-ball plays. Blocker may ultimately need a new team next year for an opportunity to earn regular ball-handling reps and a chance to improve his shooting confidence.

76. AJ Johnson (Illawarra Hawks, SG, 2004)

Size: 6-foot-5, 160 lbs
Age: 19

Johnson hasn’t been able to make a case for himself in just 8.9 minutes per game. But he is coming off his most productive appearance of the season, having hit three three-pointers to remind scouts that his shotmaking may still be worth coveting. It’s still difficult to look past his 160-pound frame. But it may be worth bringing Johnson into your G League system to see how his body and creativity develop, and whether there is enough combo-guard scoring/playmaking potential to unlock.

75. Carey Booth (Notre Dame, PF, Freshman)

Size: 6-foot-10, 203 lbs
Age: 18

Booth figures to become relevant in the 2025 or 2026 draft discussions. NBA teams love the archetype: a switchable, shooting big man. His game and value are built around his catch-and-shoot game. But, he’s looked comfortable putting the ball down and using touch shots on the move. And he’s flashed enough toughness around the basket and mobility for teams to see an inside-out defender.

74. Caleb Foster (Duke, PG/SG, Freshman)

Size: 6-foot-5, 197 lbs
Age: 19

Foster has had to share the ball with several other guards, limiting his opportunities to run offense and create. He is shifty and tough in the paint with his runner game and finishing. He’s also been an accurate spot-up shooter. It’s just difficult to confidently project an NBA fit or any upside due to his limitations as a pull-up shooter and playmaker.

73. Zvonimir Ivisic (Kentucky, C, Freshman)

Age: 20
Size: 7-foot-2, 234 lbs

There still aren’t any updates on when or if Ivisic will be cleared to play for Kentucky. Even if he doesn’t suit up this season, FIBA tape (11.4 points, 3.4 blocks, 1.6 threes at the U20 European Championship) and workouts should create enough intrigue for a team to draft him. Until then, he’ll be merely thought of as a second-round flier and project, though one who’s flashed rare, enticing ball-handling and shotmaking skill for a 7-foot-2 big.

72. Garwey Dual (Providence, SG/SF, Freshman)

Size: 6-foot-5, 190 lbs
Age: 18

Dual figures to be more of a 2025 draft prospect, given how far behind his scoring and shooting look. At 6-foot-5, 18 years old, his playmaking and defensive versatility should buy him time and keep scouts patient. He’s an interesting two-way playmaker, but it’s difficult to have any confidence in his NBA outlook while he’s converting 25.7% of his two-point attempts.

71. Keshad Johnson (Arizona, PF, Senior)

Size: 6-foot-7, 225 lbs
Age: 22

Johnson has emerged as a prospect to think about due to his efficient play-finishing and capable shooting for an off-ball role at the next level. He’s the type of plug-and-play contributor who won’t need to create to produce. Johnson puts himself in scoring position by running the floor, cutting, rolling, popping or trailing plays into open threes. He’s shooting 67.9% inside the arc by staying active and using his body well on finishes.

70. Juan Nunez (Ratiopharm Ulm, PG, 2004)

Size: 6-foot-3, 190 lbs
Age: 19

Nunez’s identity has been built around creativity and passing. And now that he’s shooting a combined 38.7% from three, he should be able to generate plenty of second-round interest. He’s already had a ton of overseas experience, having played a season in the Spanish ACB and Euroleague before heading to Germany and playing in Eurocup and G-BBL.

69. Kyshawn George (Miami, SG, Freshman)

Size: 6-foot-8, 205 lbs
Age: 20

Generating NBA interest in 2024 will call for George to start looking more comfortable finishing inside the arc. But he’s quickly become worth following and adding to watch lists based on his 6-foot-8 size, shooting, live-dribble passing and potential defensive versatility. With a decisive, confident stroke, he’s looked convincing hitting 22 of his last 45 threes. And with a pair of five-assist games over the last two weeks, an enticing archetype is starting to form as a jumbo ball-handler and shotmaker.

68. Matthew Cleveland (Miami, SF, Junior)

Size: 6-foot-7, 208 lbs
Age: 21, Junior

Through two seasons at Florida State, limited shooting kept Cleveland from generating any draft buzz. He’s now 17-of-35 from deep with Miami. And the mid-range shotmaking and athletic play-finishing have carried over as well. He still doesn’t offer any real creation, while 2.5 3-point attempts makes the 48.6 3-point percentage less convincing. He’ll still need a second-round team to buy the improved shooting for Cleveland to look like a serviceable offensive player at the next level.

67. Harrison Ingram (North Carolina, SF, Freshman)

Size: 6-foot-7, 235 lbs
Age: 21

Ingram’s improved shooting has been a key development, considering his 6-foot-7 size and the playmaking ability he demonstrated at Stanford. He’s received far fewer ball screens at North Carolina. Instead, he’s become an efficient off-ball scorer, important for his chances of finding a fit at the next level. The combination of shotmaking and passing creates intriguing connector potential.

66. Pacome Dadiet (Ratiopharm Ulm/France, SF, 2005)

Size: 6-foot-6, 187 lbs
Age: 18

Dadiet put together his best stretch of shotmaking, slashing and finishing last week against Mitteldeutscher to score a season-high 17 points in 17 minutes. With NBA wing size, his jumper also looks promising, both off the catch and dribble. Not turning 19 until July, he still looks more like a draft-and-stash option if he declares and stays in the draft.

65. Jaxson Robinson (BYU, SF, Senior)

Size: 6-foot-7, 193 lbs
Age: 21

Robinson’s name will be one of the more fluid ones on the board from now until March, given this year’s out-of-nowhere shooting explosion, his NBA wing size and the possibility that he may have gotten off to a fluky start at BYU. His stroke passes the eye test, and he’s even flashed some bonus scoring ability in transition and off his ball-handling. But the bar for his shotmaking will be high, and Robinson will have to keep his percentage near 40 on high volume to sell NBA teams on shooting-specialist potential.

64. Reece Beekman (Virginia, PG, Senior)

Size: 6-foot-3, 194 lbs
Age: 22

No shooting improvement will make it tough for Beekman to move up draft boards. That could make him an interesting value pick, given the growth he’s shown as a facilitator and given his signature defensive pressure. A best-case scenario still pictures a Jevon Carter-like specialist, but he could carve out a regular role for a team that could use another ball-handler and perimeter defender.

63. Trentyn Flowers (Adelaide 36ers, SG/SF, 2005)

Size: 6-foot-8, 205 lbs
Age: 18

Flowers has been hit-or-miss this year in a fluctuating role. He’s likely to look more enticing in a predraft workout setting that’s designed to illuminate his athleticism and shotmaking. Limited versatility and proof of reading the game well hint at some boom-or-bust potential.

62. Mantas Rubstavicius (New Zealand Breakers/Lithuania, SF, 2002)

Size: 6-foot-5, 196 lbs
Age: 21

Averaging 17.3 points since being inserted into the New Zealand Breakers’ starting lineup four games ago, Mantas Rubstavicius has become a name to track for this upcoming draft. With solid positional wing size, he’s shooting 14-of-29 from three and converting his spot-up drives and transition finishes at an excellent rate.

61. Carlton Carrington (Pittsburgh, PG, Freshman)

Size: 6-foot-5, 190 lbs
Age: 18

Carrington’s shotmaking versatility and playmaking popped early. It’s also difficult to ignore numbers like just 14 made baskets at the rim in 15 games. The lack of burst and quickness for a ball-handler is concerning, but the live-dribble passing and pull-up shooting may be good enough for Carrington to compensate.

60. Trey Alexander (Creighton, SG, Senior)

Size: 6-foot-4, 190 lbs
Age: 20

NBA teams weren’t fully sold on Alexander last year, despite his outstanding 2022-23 shooting profile of accurate spot-up, off-screen and pull-up shotmaking. He’s helped himself this year by looking more dangerous as a playmaker, which creates some extra versatility and on-ball function. There are still concerns about his frame and below-average athleticism for a 2-guard, and his shooting numbers are down this year. But bringing them back up (so last year’s success doesn’t seem fluky) and continuing to initiate offense could earn Alexander some looks in the 20s.

59. Zach Edey (Purdue, C, Senior)

Age: 21
Size: 7-foot-4, 300 lbs

It still seems likely that the majority of teams would prefer to gamble on a guard, wing or forward instead of a 300-pound big who can’t shoot or defend away from the basket. But all it takes is one front office to buy into Zach Edey’s college dominance and 7-foot-4 size translating to high-percentage post offense, finishing and shot-blocking. The success rate of players in his mold is very low, but there’s no denying his skill level and touch with his back to the basket.

58. Alex Karaban (Connecticut, SF/PF, Sophomore)

Age: 21
Size: 6-foot-8, 220 lbs

Shotmaking at 6-foot-8, 220 pounds should get Alex Karaban drafted, though he’s also been an effective cutter and plus defender. Despite offering minimal creation or athletic ability, he checks the right boxes for an NBA stretch 4 with his size, shooting and foot speed to guard away from the basket.

57. DaRon Holmes II (Dayton, C, Junior)

Size: 6-foot-10, 235 lbs
Age: 21

The explosive finishing and post scoring weren’t enough for Holmes to sway NBA teams last year. This season, he’s tripled his three-point rate and raised his assist rate to an impressive 18.8%. There may be enough function tied to Holmes tools and athleticism alone, but a capable catch-and-shoot stroke (10-of-25 3PT) and some bonus passing could give him an important edge to separate him from other low-cost, easily replicable bigs.

56. Baba Miller (Florida State, SF, Sophomore)

Size: 6-foot-11, 204 lbs
Age: 19

The idea of Miller — a 6-foot-11 wing — is still more appealing than his overall impact. On one hand, he’s been relatively efficient, delivering sporadic flashes of ball-handling and driving, tough finishes, skilled passes and defensive playmaking. He just hasn’t made any real progress as a shooter, and for a returning player with breakout expectations, only four games with double-digit scoring outputs highlight a frustrating, passive mentality.

55. Bronny James (USC, SG, Freshman)

Size: 6-foot-4, 210 lbs
Age: 19

With his shooting, passing IQ and defensive quickness, James checks a specific set of boxes to create a connector archetype that typically fits well at the next level. He doesn’t offer the type of self-creation skill or burst for exciting scoring or playmaking potential needed. But he has a pull-up game and feel for ball-screen situations, while his catch-and-shoot game, line-drive slashing and unselfishness work well off the ball.

54. Baylor Scheierman (Creighton, SF, Senior)

Size: 6-foot-7, 205 lbs
Age: 23

Averaging 3.0 threes and 4.1 assists, Scheierman has the shotmaking skill and passing IQ to get by without any speed or explosion. He’s also been an efficient finisher using body control and touch. Betting on Scheierman at the next level ultimately means betting on skill, feel and fit to carry him through athletic disadvantages.

53. Izan Almansa (G League Ignite, PF, 2005)

Size: 6-foot-10, 230 lbs
Age: 18

Almansa’s size and frame, soft hands and instincts suggest he can continue to play-finish at the next level as a dump-off target, roll man and offensive rebounder. No real athletic advantages, face-up game or three-ball just makes it difficult to detect exciting upside.

52. Melvin Ajinca (Saint-Quentin, SF, 2005)

Size: 6-foot-7
Age: 19

Ajinca’s shotmaking has mostly carried over from the U19 World Cup to LNB Pro A. The 6-foot-7 wing’s game is designed for a spot-up shooting and line-drive slashing role. No playmaking ability and red-flag low defensive stats highlight his limited versatility and athleticism.

51. Justin Edwards (Kentucky, SF, Freshman)

Size: 6-foot-8, 200 lbs
Age: 20

Edwards is appealing for his positional size and athleticism for slashing, finishing and defending. He occasionally looks promising stepping into mid-range pull-ups and spot-up threes. But right now, he doesn’t possess any above-average strength for a wing prospect, and he’s a year older than most freshmen.

50. Tyrese Proctor (Duke, PG/SG, Sophomore)

Size: 6-foot-5, 183 lbs
Age: 19

Last year’s concerns about Proctor’s ability to beat defenders and generate rim pressure haven’t faded. But he’s been significantly more efficient finishing inside the arc, he’s flashed clear passing IQ, and despite underwhelming shooting percentages, Proctor has enough shotmaking skill to remain patient. Still, we can likely forget about the idea of an NBA lead guard. The draw right now to Proctor revolves around his versatility as a guard who can run pick-and-rolls, spot up and generally make good decisions at both ends.

49. Hunter Sallis (Wake Forest, SG, Junior)

Size: 6-foot-5, 185 lbs
Age: 20

Sallis has looked like a different player with Wake Forest in terms of creation, shotmaking and athletic activity. His game was either put in a straitjacket at Gonzaga, or he made significant improvements during the offseason that have come to life with the increased usage. Sallis has already hit 28 threes after making 16 total through two seasons. He’s shot 47.6% on pull-ups. He’s averaging 18.4 points, converting efficiently from three levels, particularly while working on the ball. Sallis’ playmaking just remains limited, so a larger, full-season sample size of scoring will make it easier to buy this current breakout.

48. Kobe Johnson (USC, SF, Junior)

Size: 6-foot-6, 200 lbs
Age: 20

Johnson is snapping out of a cold shooting slump, reviving some hope in his three-point development. It’s a key swing skill for a 6-foot-6 wing who’s also a high-IQ ball-mover, functional cutter and instinctual wing defender. Johnson checks enough supporting boxes (with translatable strengths) to the point where only a capable catch-and-shoot game may be needed for him to find a role at the next level.

47. Milan Momcilovic (Iowa, SF, Freshman)

Size: 6-foot-8, 210 lbs
Age: 19

More attention will shift toward Momcilovic after his go-ahead fallaway to beat No. 2 Houston on Tuesday. At 6-foot-8, he’s one of the toughest freshmen shotmakers, both from three and inside the arc on specialty jumpers. He may not do much else, but that positional size and shooting for a 19-year-old creates value for a player not likely to go top 20.

46. Trevon Brazile (Arkansas, PF, Sophomore)

Size: 6-foot-10, 220 lbs
Age: 20

Coming off an ACL year, Brazile’s minutes have been down this year, despite Arkansas’ having just lost four key rotation players to the 2023 draft. Known for his explosive finishing last season (11 dunks, nine games), he’s only picked up three dunks in 14 games this year after the knee injury. He is shooting 40% from three, and if the athleticism and confidence return to full strength, the ability to spot up and pick up easy buckets at the rim should give him a good chance to earn an NBA role. However, his three-point volume is low, and now there is some guesswork surrounding his recovery and potential lost athleticism.

45. Aaron Bradshaw (Kentucky, C, Freshman)

Size: 7-foot-1, 226 lbs
Age: 19

Bradshaw remains interesting for his 7-foot-1 size, shooting potential, offensive rebounding, shot-blocking and passion. An extremely high center of gravity makes it difficult to picture him holding ground against NBA centers, and zero assists through six games points to some questionable feel.

44. Kylan Boswell (Arizona, PG/SG, Sophomore)

Size: 6-foot-2, 200 lbs
Age: 18

Boswell will have played two seasons at Arizona before turning 19 years old. He possesses the classic connector skill set with his shooting and passing IQ. The big question is whether NBA teams will feel they can play him at point guard, given his struggles blowing by, creating and putting pressure on the rim. And 6-foot-2 size for an off-guard is worrisome. The questions become less alarming when thinking about Boswell for a bench role. He should offer enough shotmaking, transition playmaking, half-court ball-moving and pesky defense to compete for a rotation spot one day.

43. Kwame Evans Jr. (Oregon, PF, Freshman)

Size: 6-foot-9, 220 lbs
Age: 19

Evans’ shot isn’t falling at a strong enough rate to sell NBA teams in 2024. But he has demonstrated promising shotmaking skills since his junior year at Montverde Academy. And he’s currently putting up unique defensive numbers with a 6.5 block percentage and 4.5 steal percentage. A package of shooting, finishing, above-average passing defensive playmaking could turn Evans into a 2025 first-rounder and future NBA stretch 4.

42. PJ Hall (Clemson, PF, Senior)

Size: 6-foot-10, 238 lbs
Age: 21

Hall appears to have taken another step forward as a perimeter shotmaker, a key development for a strong, highly-skilled post player and strong finish as a cutter, roll man and offensive rebounder. Limited defensive upside/versatility and no real face-up game are drawbacks that lower his ceiling and raise the importance of his shooting being real.

41. KJ Lewis (Arizona, SG/SF, Freshman)

Size: 6-foot-4, 205 lbs
Age: 19

It’s understandable why teams may not want to invest this early on a limited creator with five made threes all season. Shooting will be a key swing skill for Lewis, who already looks like an NBA defender and finisher with passing skills that his role and numbers often hide. Lewis may ultimately require the right fit and an imagination that pictures a tough, multiposition defender and an off-ball weapon capable of impacting games without needing plays run for him.

40. Jaylon Tyson (California, SF/PF, Junior)

Size: 6-foot-7, 215 lbs
Age: 21

Tyson moved the needle with 30 points against Colorado, a performance that helped validate the early-season improvement he’s shown. At the next level, he won’t be able to lean on strength as much as he does now. But Tyson has started to complement the physical drives and finishes with tighter ball-handling for space creation, footwork to get through gaps and improving shotmaking versatility with spot-up and dribble jumpers. He still needs to keep improving his spot-up shooting to fit into the NBA.

39. Jalen Bridges (Baylor, SF, Senior)

Size: 6-foot-9, 225 lbs
Age: 22

Though not the most exciting offensive wing, Bridges appears to have made the necessary shooting improvement to create a useful enough three-and-D package. He’s worth looking at for a simplified role that calls for corner threes, cuts and wing defense.

38. Dillon Jones (Weber State, SG/SF, Senior)

Size: 6-foot-6, 235 lbs
Age: 22

Jones is averaging 19.4 points, 10.2 boards and 4.9 assists with the offense running through him. An NBA offense won’t run through him, which is why he must improve his spot-up shooting (42.5%). Still, Jones creates advantages on the ball with his unique mix of 6-foot-6, 235-pound size, ball-handling to get to spots, live-dribble passing and mid-range touch. It’s worth questioning his NBA fit/position, but he does too many things well now to nitpick in the second round.

37. Jackson Shelstad (Oregon, PG, Freshman)

Size: 6-foot-0, 170 lbs
Age: 18

Despite a 6-foot-0 measurement that’s sure to raise red flags and skepticism, his combination of speed with the ball and pull-up shooting can be highly potent. Since making a late debut on November 24, he’s scored double-figures in 10 consecutive games, finishing over 45% from the floor in eight of them. It would be more comforting if he starts to play-make more for teammates, or if measured taller at the NBA combine. However, it’s worth thinking about Shelstad as a specialist off the bench who’s simply valued for his ability to apply pressure with penetration and shotmaking.

36. Walter Clayton Jr. (Florida, PG/SG, Junior)

Size: 6-foot-2, 195 lbs
Age: 20

A lack of size, athleticism and playmaking could help turn Clayton into a value pick. In the second round or undrafted pool, I’d throw traditional scouting and eye-test results out the window, and instead bet on Clayton’s shotmaking skill, physical drives, finishing craft and toughness. Picture a second-unit scorer and ball-screen playmaker who’s also comfortable spotting up.

35. Wooga Poplar (Miami, SG, Junior)

Size: 6-foot-5, 197 lbs
Age: 21

Explosive leaping and shotmaking flashes earned Poplar a spot on preseason scouting lists. This year, he’s taken a clear step forward with his spot-up and pull-up shooting. He’s still a limited creator and playmaker, a turnoff for a 6-foot-5 guard. A lot will be riding on his jump shot and the early signs of progress.

34. Ajay Mitchell (Santa Barbara, PG, Junior)

Size: 6-foot-5, 190 lbs
Age: 21

Averaging 19.7 points on 61.8% true shooting, Mitchell has showcased a special knack for getting to spots, creating separation and finishing despite lacking any advantageous athletic trait. We continue to see NBA ball-handlers succeed with a change of pace, footwork, skill and IQ over speed or explosion. Mitchell could be next, particularly if his strong free-throw percentages indicate the potential for more shooting improvement down the road.

33. Pelle Larsson (Arizona, SF, Senior)

Size: 6-foot-6, 215 lbs
Age: 22

While it would feel more comforting to watch Larsson up his three-point attempts per game, he’s making the rhythm ones (16-of-28 total). And the efficient transition finishing, slashing and secondary playmaking seem translatable, given his physical tools and IQ/decision-making. Larsson is starting to look like an appealing value pick late in the draft as an interchangeable wing with the body, skill set and mentality to play on or off the ball.

32. Adem Bona (UCLA, C, Sophomore)

Size: 6-foot-10, 245 lbs
Age: 20

Bona has the necessary tools, athleticism and motor for a rim-running, finisher, shot-blocker role. High turnover and foul rates point to some questionable feel that could limit his minutes and usage at the next level. Bona will ultimately need the right team and role that values his knack for picking up easy baskets and making plays defensively.

31. Oso Ighodaro (Marquette, C, Senior)

Size: 6-foot-11, 235lbs
Age: 21

No shooting skills and limiting shot-blocking suggest Ighodaro will have to be more of a specialty player. The draw to his game stems from his ability to be used as a ball-handler and pass from the center position. But he should also offer some complementary scoring with his play-finishing and outstanding one-handed touch around the key.

30. Adama Bal

School: Santa Clara
Position: SG/SF
Size: 6-foot-7, 190 lbs
Age: 20

A non-factor for Arizona through two seasons, Adama Bal has thrived with a bigger role at Santa Clara, albeit against weaker opponents. Still, the 6-foot-7 wing has been a highly efficient scorer working on and off the ball, shooting 52.6% out of spot-ups and generating 1.1 points per possession in ball-screen situations.

The eye test does show a limited athlete who’s missing burst and has a slow delivery getting into his shot. But Bal has consistently found ways to create separation with hesitations and timing. He’s making contested jumpers, finishing efficiently using his body and even averaging 3.0 assists. Despite translation questions, Bal is building a compelling case around his NBA tools, scoring versatility, passing numbers and 64.5 true shooting percentage.

29. DJ Wagner

School/Team: Kentucky
Position: PG/SG
Age: 18, Freshman
Size: 6-foot-4, 192 lbs

DJ Wagner has gone from overhyped to possibly undervalued. There is understandable skepticism in NBA circles around his thin frame, limited athleticism, unconvincing shooting and underwhelming playmaking rate. But in the mid-to-late first round, he could wind up being a cheap source of bench scoring and rim pressure.

I’m still buying Wagner’s ability to use quick dribbles and burst to create windows and slash through them. And though he may never be consistent from behind the arc, he’s a shotmaker whose early numbers seem slightly skewed, whether it’s due to a role adjustment or a breakable slump.

28. Tidjane Salaun

Team/Nationality: Cholet/France
Position: PF
Size: 6-foot-8, 212 lbs
Age: 18

Tidjane Salaun’s stock is certainly up during this current hot streak where he’s made 17 of his last 29 threes. His shotmaking potential for an athletic, 6-foot-9, 18-year-old is clearly enticing.

He’s still more of a flier on our big board, given the streaky shooting and his lack of ball-handling creation, passing and feel. But it wouldn’t be surprising if he went closer toward the lottery to a team that would rather gamble on his upside in a draft that has limited star power.

27. Judah Mintz

School: Syracuse
Position: PG/SG
Size: 6-foot-4, 185 lbs
Age: 20

While some scouts sound hesitant about Judah Mintz’s 3-point shooting, thin frame and shorter arms, I’m buying his speed with the ball, finishing adjustments, tough shotmaking and two-way playmaking. A lack of strength and range shouldn’t cancel out his transition, downhill and mid-range scoring, or his ability to set up teammates and create events defensively.

26. Kanaan Carlyle

School: Stanford
Position: PG/SG
Size: 6-foot-3, 185 lbs
Age: 19

I’ve seen Kanaan Carlyle in a variety of settings before Stanford — live at the Hoophall Classic with Milton, with Overtime Elite and for USA Basketball. But recently going for 28 points in a win over No. 4 Arizona and then 17 in a road win at UCLA was validating. He’s looked super comfortable in more space. He’s self-creating with decisive ball-handling and rhythm, attacking and drilling jumpers with convincing confidence.

Staying efficient will be key for Carlyle to look realistic to NBA scouts, given his 6-foot-3 size and scoring-guard archetype. Starting to show use his elusiveness and gravity more for playmaking will also be key.

25. Dalton Knecht

School: Tennessee
Position: SF
Size: 6-foot-6, 204 lbs
Age: 22

Dalton Knecht has a plug-and-play game with his NBA frame, shooting and cutting for off-ball scoring. He’s even flashed some athletic finishing in transition.

As long as a team can accept that there isn’t a visible path to upside, Knecht would seem like a fine pick anywhere in the Nos. 20-40 range for a team interested in adding complementary shotmaking and some toughness.

24. Ryan Dunn

School: Virginia
Position: SF/PF
Size: 6-foot-8, 216 lbs
Age: 20

Ryan Dunn will need the right team that needs a defensive disruptor and can mask his offensive limitations with enough supporting creation and shotmaking.

A 10.1% block rate and 4.8 steal percentage still put Dunn in rare territory and highlight his special athletic ability, reaction time and court coverage. A fitting lineup should find use for his transition speed and play-finishing at the other end.

23. Jared Mccain

School: Duke
Position: SG
Size: 6-foot-3, 197 lbs
Age: 19

Jared McCain’s dynamic shotmaking at Centennial has carried right over to Duke. He’s at 43.8% from deep with a decisive, convincing release shooting both spot-ups and pull-ups. He can handle the ball and get to spots in space, and his craftiness, shooting off the dribble and IQ should allow him to command ball screens at the next level.

He’s less effective at creating against a set defense, and the lack of size and athleticism limits his scoring versatility and playmaking potential. It’s more realistic to picture a shotmaking specialist.

22. Devin Carter

School: Providence
Position: PG/SG
Size: 6-foot-3, 195 lbs
Age: 21

You draft Devin Carter for him to pressure opposing ball-handlers, stay attached through screens, provide streak shooting and raise the team’s intensity. His 17 blocks for a 6-foot-3 guard highlight his defensive drive and anticipation, while the improved 39.1% three-point stroke should make him more playable offensively at the next level.

Any of the creation, playmaking and tough shotmaking should be considered a bonus, though he is mistake-prone with extra on-ball freedom.

21. Kel’el Ware

School: Indiana
Position: C
Size: 7-foot-0, 242 lbs
Age: 19

The narrative around Kel’el Ware hasn’t changed much. He’s an obvious NBA talent at his size, with athleticism for finishing and shot-blocking and the skill level to hit tough shots around the key and the occasional spot-up three.

He looks like a clear lottery pick on good nights. But the quiet ones still occur too often for scouts to feel confident in his ability to maximize potential.

Ware figures to look outstanding in predraft workouts, and in this draft, some teams figure to look past inconsistent college results. His fading presence and lack of physicality point to some risk. The physical tools, easy basket, defensive range and touch scream upside. Slotting him in the teens and 20s takes the excitement and worries into account.

20. Bobi Klintman

Team/Nationality: Cairns Taipans/Swedish
Position: SF/PF
Size: 6-foot-8, 225 lbs
Age: 20

Playing a spot-up-heavy role, Bobi Klintman’s production has understandably been up and down. But he’s done enough with his minutes and touches to feel optimistic about his NBA fit, thanks to a competent three-ball, improved ball-handling moves in space, live-dribble passing, some floater touch and athletic finishing.

It’s unlikely he earns the label of scorer in the NBA. Rather, Klintman should earn his minutes and money with versatility from both forward positions.

19. KJ Simpson

School: Colorado
Position: Guard
Size: 6-foot-2, 175 lbs
Age: 21

At some point, it’s time to look past KJ Simpson’s physical and athletic limitations and put stock into how successful he’s been offensively using change of speed, footwork, instincts/patience, body control, off-ball movement and shotmaking.

He’s averaging 20.5 points and 4.3 assists on 65.2% true shooting. Only George Hill has put up those numbers for a season. Given his creation and offensive workload, his efficiency has been too sharp to write off, particularly with how many current NBA ball-handlers are succeeding despite having minimal athletic advantages.

18. Tristan da Silva

School/Team: Colorado
Position: SF/PF
Size: 6-foot-9, 220 lbs
Age: 22

Thinking about Tristan da Silva in the first round means valuing his shotmaking. It’s worth questioning what else translates, given his lack of burst off the dribble and vertical explosion at the rim.

But at 6-foot-9, it’s easy to picture da Silva plugging right into a lineup as a floor-spacing forward with his projectable shooting mechanics, plus a high skill level to make pull-ups in space and touch shots around the post.

17. Donovan Clingan

School: Connecticut
Position: C
Size: 7-foot-2, 280 lbs
Age: 19

Donovan Clingan’s spot in the big board should change based on what team I’m picking for. He won’t be for everyone, considering he can’t play more than one position or outside the paint.

For the right team, he can help with physicality around the basket, 7-foot-2 size, quick feet and anticipation for rim protection and a big body and soft hands for picking up easy finishes.

While there doesn’t appear to be a ton of upside tied to his style of play and lack of versatility, he should be able to mirror the trajectory of a valued role-playing center like Jakob Poeltl.

16. Kevin McCullar

School: Kansas
Position: SG/SF
Size: 6-foot-7, 214 lbs
Age: 22

Kevin McCullar Jr. may not have the self-creation or dribble-jumper game for his 20.1 points per game to carry over. But he’s become too well-rounded to bet against. His slashing, cutting, improved spot-up shooting, passing and wing defense will allow him to play on and off the ball out of different situations every game.

And he still may be able to provide some one-on-one offense when given space, just based on extra flashes of tougher shotmaking we’re seeing this season.

Regardless, McCullar comes off as a high-floor role player worth taking in the mid-first-round for a team uninterested in waiting on a project.

15. Stephon Castle

School: Connecticut
Position: SG
Size: 6-foot-6, 215 lbs
Age: 19, Freshman

Stephon Castle right now looks most appealing for his passing and defense as a 6-foot-6, 215-pound wing. A 24.9 assist percentage and 2.9 steal rate are very appealing for a guard or forward his size.

He also uses that size with his signature pacing to get to spots and finish through contact. But the shot has looked somewhat scary early on, and NBA defenses should be more effective at combating the strength he leans on at both ends.

14. Ulrich Chomche

Team: NBA Academy Africa/Cameroon
Position: PF/C
Size: 6-foot-11, 225 lbs
Age: 18

December has been a huge month for Ulrich Chomche, with standout performances at the Sunrise Prep Showcase and G League Showcase for NBA Academy Africa.

NBA teams should detect extreme defensive upside tied to his 6-foot-11 size, 7-foot-4 wingspan, verticality at the rim, movement and recovery ability. While his offense is raw, he’s been surprising with three-point shooting, one-on-one moves from the post/short corners and passes, including some off live dribbles.

It would be understandable if teams were hesitant to consider Chomche in June, considering he hasn’t played against any high-level competition. And it does sound like he’ll entertain the idea of playing college basketball in 2024-25.

But he also has a December 30 birthday, making him barely eligible for the 2024 draft. This is also the type of draft where teams may be willing to gamble earlier on upside.

Depending on the feedback he gets, and how determined he is to immediately start his NBA journey, Chomche could be a name to watch once the predraft process begins.

Between his age, physical tools, surefire defensive versatility and some enticing offensive flashes, he’d surely draw first-round consideration.

13. Tyler Smith

Team: G League Ignite
Position: PF
Size: 6-foot-11, 224 lbs
Age: 19

The Ignite are 22 games in and Tyler Smith is still shooting a solid 38.7% from three. The eye test backs up the numbers, as the 6-foot-11, 19-year-old looks decisive and fluid stepping into jumpers and catching and firing quickly in the mid-range.

Age, size and a jump shot ultimately create a high floor and easy fit.

Otherwise, he leans mostly on physical tools and motor for play-finishing and some shot-blocking. You draft him for his floor and try to get Smith to build on the brief flashes of isolation shotmaking versatility from the short corner/post or drives into runners/layups.

12. Reed Sheppard

School: Kentucky
Position: SG
Size: 6-foot-3, 187 lbs
Age: 19

There may be prospects on the board with perceived higher ceilings. Reaching them just feels unlikely, while Reed Sheppard seemingly offers an instantly translatable and valued package (for the right team) of shooting, passing and disruptive defense.

Analytics paint Sheppard in the same tiers as previous top three picks. Only Zion Williamson, Anthony Davis and Michael Beasley finished their freshmen seasons with BPMs over Sheppard’s current 14.8. He lacks the positional size, athleticism and shot creation shared by stars, which is why there is some debate over where to take Sheppard in the draft.

But there is no reason why he can impact a rotation, playing the same role he does for Kentucky, with his 54.7% 3-point stroke, playmaking IQ (54 assists, 20 turnovers) and special defensive instincts (5.2 stocks per 40 minutes).

11. Yves Missi

School: Baylor
Position: C
Size: 7-foot-0, 235 lbs
Age: 19

Assuming the team that drafts Yves Missi has an opening and need for his rim protection and interior presence, his 7-foot-0 size, strength, foot speed and athleticism should continue translating to shot-blocking, pick-and-roll defense and easy baskets.

Offensively, he’ll mostly be dependent on being set up, so he’d benefit from going to a team with good passers or scorers who know how to capitalize on their gravity. However, he occasionally flashes some skill around the key, either with a quick face-up move or touch shot.

10. Isaiah Collier

School: USC
Position: PG
Size: 6-foot-5, 210 lbs
Age: 19

Isaiah Collier must be used in the right way at the next level. Based on the early results, he doesn’t look prepared to run an NBA offense full-time due to his decision-making and shooting.

Unless something changes fast, he’ll provide the most value by putting pressure on defenses in the open floor and getting downhill in ball screen situations. His handle, quickness and strength should make him an effective driver and finisher. And he’s demonstrated enough vision and passing skill to provide playmaking off his creativity.

To start his career, it’s likely best to think of Collier as an offensive weapon to bring off the bench. His development as a shooter and decision-maker will determine whether he’ll be worthy of a starting point guard job.

9. Cody Williams

School: Colorado
Position: SF
Size: 6-foot-8, 190 lbs
Age: 19

A wrist injury sent Cody Williams to the sidelines on a high note after consecutive 21-point efforts and a 67.7 true shooting percentage through seven games.

Given how efficient/productive he’s been, plus the fact that he owns a coveted, big-wing archetype, scouts have temporarily placed him in the same tier as the top projected NCAA picks until his return.

The small sample size, inferior competition and low-volume three-point numbers (6-of-10) do mean Williams has more to prove. He can be loose with his handle, and he doesn’t take many jump shots for a projected perimeter player.

Even if scouts learn that his shot and creation aren’t sharp for a traditional top pick, his positional size, slashing and finishing, passing and defense still create comforting versatility.

8. Ja’Kobe Walter

School/Team: Baylor
Position: SG
Size: 6-foot-5, 195 lbs
Age: 19

Ja’Kobe Walter’s physical tools and spot-up and movement shotmaking paint him as NBA-ready for an off-ball scoring role.

He’s one of the safe bets based on the likelihood that his shooting versatility and 40.0 three-point percentage translate, and that his strong frame continues to work for drives through contact and perimeter defense.

Limited ball-handling, creation and playmaking ability does suggest that he projects more as a supporting piece than a lead scorer. But that shouldn’t matter too much in the Nos. 6-10 range, where in this draft, it would still feel like good value to add a starting-caliber three-and-D wing.

7. Kyle Filipowski

School: Duke
Position: PF/C
Size: 7-foot-0, 248 lbs
Age: 20

While I’m not as high on Kyle Filipowski the NBA scorer, I am drawn to the idea of Filipowski the Swiss Army Knife big.

He doesn’t possess Lauri Markkanen’s shooting fluidity or self-creation. Instead, he’s going to leave his mark by impacting the game in a variety of ways, by initiating fast breaks, overpowering around the basket, passing out of the post — and then occasionally capitalizing on spot-up 3-point attempts and open driving lanes.

The biggest areas of improvement this year from Filipowski have been with his finishing in traffic, vision and shot-blocking.

6. Zaccharie Risacher

Team/Nationality: JL Bourg/French
Position: SF
Size: 6-foot-8, 204 lbs
Age: 18

Zaccharie Risacher has risen into the Tier 1 or Tier 2 of the draft by shooting 47.3% from three through 29 games. The shot, combined with his 6-foot-8 positional size, athleticism around the rim and defensive foot speed, creates an easy-fit archetype for either wing position in the NBA.

He’s just barely been used in any ball-screen or isolation situations, making it difficult to picture a player who can initiate offense. His tremendous shooting numbers also don’t line up with the ones in recent years, and a 70.9 free-throw percentage isn’t the most comforting for anyone worried about whether Risacher is simply on a scorching hot streak.

Risacher has encouraging shotmaking ability. And despite having demonstrated minimal creation with JL Bourg, he was able to show more ball-handling and playmaking last year in France’s U21 league.

5. Alexandre Sarr

Team: Perth Wildcats
Position: PF/C
Size: 7-foot-1, 216 lbs
Age: 18

Alexandre Sarr may be the safest pick of all the perceived No. 1 overall candidates. It’s difficult to picture an NBA world where he isn’t regularly adding some type of value with his athleticism around the basket and defensive versatility.

The high floor ultimately puts him in the conversation with the top prospects in a weaker draft. The flashes of open-floor ball handling, pull-up jumpers and spot-up threes create No. 1 overall upside.

Offensively, I’m still hesitant to buy those flashes developing into consistent occurrences against NBA bigs. It seems more realistic to picture a play-finisher who’d be better described as capable than consistent at knocking down threes and attacking closeouts.

Regardless, his 7-foot-1 size, aggression and mobility should be a lock to translate to easy buckets, rim protection and the ability to switch onto guards and wings.

4. Ron Holland

School: G League Ignite
Position: SF
Size: 6-foot-6, 204 lbs
Age: 18

It’s understandable why scouts may have moved Ron Holland off their No. 1 spot, based on his shooting struggles, questionable decision-making and his inability to elevate Ignite. At this point, his game isn’t designed to lead a team at this level, particularly as an 18-year-old in the G League.

But the bet on Holland is banking on his explosiveness, slashing, finishing and defensive quickness creating a high floor—and then the flashes of ball-handling and tough shotmaking becoming more consistent parts of his game.

It seems unfair to ignore context and crush Holland for up-and-down play in a top-option role that he’s not currently equipped for on a team lacking veteran talent, quality playmakers or many shooters.

He may wind up in a more favorable setting next year in the NBA, playing a more complementary role at first while he slowly works on his creation and shot to prepare for more on-ball reps down the line.

I’m staying patient with Holland. He’s still averaging 17.5 points on 45.1%. And though the supporting numbers aren’t great, he’s had four five-assist games over the last month, and there has still been encouraging signs of his ability to create space and catch fire once his confidence is pumping.

3. Rob Dillingham

School: Kentucky
Position: PG/SG
Size: 6-foot-3, 176 lbs
Age: 18

We’ve reached a point where a hot start now feels like the norm for Rob Dillingham. He’s coming off a 23-point game on seven shots (one miss) against Missouri in another effort that highlighted his shot-making versatility, range and ability to improvise as a ball-handler and finisher.

He’s proved he can read games and adapt to what they call for. In some, he’s a scorer, others he’s shown he can fall back into a quarterback role and use his creativity and gravity to set up teammates.

His 6-foot-3, 176-pound frame will face new challenges next year. But we’ve also seen smaller, less athletic NBA starting guards succeed leaning on skill and IQ. We’re still learning more about the IQ part with Dillingham, who’s coming off the bench playing more of a spark role.

We haven’t seen him run offense full time all that often. There isn’t much to question about his skill—he’s shot 39% on dribble jumpers, 45.9% off the catch and 5-of-11 on floaters while registering an excellent 31 assist percentage.

2. Matas Buzelis

Team: G League Ignite
Position: SG/SF
Size: 6-foot-8, 209 lbs
Age: 19

Matas Buzelis is struggling badly with his shot, and it’s affecting the rest of his offense. Having watched him hit 44% of his jumpers last year at Sunrise Christian, I’m going to stay patient and assume he’ll eventually catch fire.

It’s certainly a turnoff to see how easily he can be taken off his game. But long term, the shotmaking still figures to be a strength, as the 6-foot-8 wing has put together a lengthy tape of hitting spot-up threes, pull-ups and fallaways. And he’s very fluid handling in space, attacking the rim and finishing around it with either bounce or adjustments.

His age and archetype suggest it’s worth staying with Buzelis and just waiting for his body and confidence to grow.

1. Nikola Topic

Team/Nationality: KK Crvena Zvezda / Serbia
Position: PG
Size: 6-foot-6, 198 lbs
Age: 18

Just as we were getting first looks at Nikola Topic in Euroleague, he went down with a knee injury that could sideline him over a month.

However, he looked very comfortable in creating playmaking opportunities and slashing in limited minutes with Red Star. And that’s ultimately what I’m banking on translating—Topic’s ability to manipulate and shift defenses with his change of speed and low dribbles, as well as his vision on the move and finishing craft. With Mega MIS, he was shooting 68.1% at the rim on high volume and leading the Adriatic League in assists at 18 years old.

The athletic limitations seem more problematic on defense, but significantly docking him for it seems like nitpicking.

Topic needs to raise his outside shooting percentage off the catch and dribble. But his jump shot seems both capable and improvable, based on his 22 three-point makes in 18 games and the touch he’s used to hit 87.8% of his free throws.

Recent history also suggests to buy international prospects in pro leagues who are putting up rare numbers for their ages. Topic looked ready for full-time Euroleague minutes while ranking near the top of the Adriatic League’s offensive leaderboards.

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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.