2024 Dizzle Dynasty Mock Draft 2.0: Nikola Topic Falls Out of the Top 5, Second Round Shake-Ups

On the day of March Madness, let's take a quick look at the 2024 Draft landscape.

I was planning to wait longer for my next iteration of 2024 mock drafts, but I just couldn’t help myself right as March Madness kicks off. Things are changing pretty quickly across the NBA and CBB landscape, and there’s a lot of moving part to consider as we progress towards the end of the regular season and conference tournaments.

With a clearer picture of what’s at stake and who needs to hit big on the Lottery with Silly Season kicking off, it’s a great time to piece things together. Before we jump in, let’s walk through a few disclaimers:

• These draft rankings will be subject to the current 2024 NBA Draft order, set as of the week of March 18, 2024. The Lottery may shake up the order drastically (and might be out of date today), so this will be subject to change.

• With a more established order of operations and team needs, this mock draft will be more representative of player fits with each team. As usual, my picks will be my own combination of fit, upside, team need and my overall evaluation of rookies over the course of this season.

• Due to how in depth my 1.0 Mock was, I will be including less detail in each write-up and try to portray each player and pick more realistically. If you want more detail on players, feel free to check out my previous (and future) mocks, or check out Brian’s scouting reports.

• Take these player comparisons with a grain of salt. They’re not perfect and many of these are with the idea of “shades”, what their attributes remind me of or can be projected for an archetype. I tried to come up with a few various comps for each one, whether it’s just vibes, a similar style, a potential archetype in the right direction, a best case scenario or high-end/low-end outcomes. You’ll get some of the low-down on what each one means in my write-up.

• In reference to the point(s) above: this is solely my opinions, my write-ups and notes as I see them. I do this for fun only and I’m far from a professional or trained eye for talent. I’m prone to being wrong like everyone out there, I was wrong on things even on my 1.0 Mock and that’s what makes these exercises fun. Take this as just one of many with a nuanced take on this class.

• Did I miss something or someone? Is there a pick you’d like more clarity/thoughts on? Let me know about it! My lines are always open via Substack, Twitter, Bluesky and email and love getting every bit of feedback I can get.

  Let’s get started!

Round 1

1. Washington Wizards: F/C Alexandre Sarr, Perth Wildcats (NBL)

Player Comparison(s): Evan Mobley, Jaren Jackson Jr., OKC Serge Ibaka, Nic Claxton

Previous Spot: 1st

The top of my 2024 draft remains the same with the Washington Wizards staying at the bottom, and Alex Sarr is still the guy no matter what. There’s been some lingering debate about Washington’s progression and a slew of holes throughout the roster, and Sarr being a solution in the frontcourt as a bonafide piece will begin to piece things together as they set their sights onto a very loaded 2025.

Sarr doesn’t rank very highly in the history of traditional 1.01s, but he certainly has the highest ceiling of the field as we consider his fluidity, athleticism, size and versatility fitting the exact mold you want to see out of high level bigs today. He’s arguably the best defender of the entire class, and even though he needs some offensive development over time, he’s the perfect answer for Washington going forward.

2. Detroit Pistons: F Zaccharie Risacher, JL Bourg

Player Comparison(s): Michael Porter Jr., DeAndre Hunter+

Previous Spot: 2nd

Same as it ever was with Risacher at the 2nd overall pick, heading to Motor City. The Pistons have started to look slightly more competent as a unit coming off a 2-game win streak and 4-6 in their last 10. It’s not anything to get super excited over, but progress is progress, and adding a strong shooter like Simone Fontecchio at the deadline has helped address spacing and shooting at large.

It’s not a diss to Fontecchio at all, but if he can make such a distinct improvement to the Pistons right now, what Risacher could add as a deadly catch-and-shoot threat from the jump with his ceiling could make a really impressive impact. Add in his size, athleticism and the skills and performance as an 18=year old against grown men, there’s a lot to get excited over.

3. San Antonio Spurs: G Reed Sheppard, Kentucky

Player Comparison(s): Mike Conley, Fred VanVleet, Donte DiVincenzo+

Previous Spot: 7th

Much like my previous mock, Reed Sheppard will be going to the San Antonio Spurs, but after plenty of retrospective analysis and a fiery finish to the regular season, I think Sheppard has done enough to push his way into my top 3 at this rate.

Don’t get me wrong, Sheppard is not your traditional top 3 player in a normal NBA draft and there’s plenty of historical evidence to suggest a player like him may not be the guy to take in the top 3. Still, I think his array of skills and feel for the game are just unreal for a 19-year old. He’s somehow still shooting 54.3% from the field and 52.5% from 3 on 4.4 attempts per game (!!!!!) and continuing to flash oodles of upside as a savvy combo guard. I’ve been skeptical about his ability to be a lead guard and creator at times this season, but what he’s showing in his advanced metrics as a passer and skills off screens is giving me some stronger hope he can get there. Moreover, for a team like the Spurs, Sheppard’s full arsenal of shooting, finishing and playing both ways on and off the ball should be a great baseline even if he clicks more as an off-ball laser at the 2. Talent is talent, and Sheppard’s got it.

4. Charlotte Hornets: G, G/F Stephon Castle, UConn

Player Comparison(s): Cade Cunningham, Jalen Suggs, Pre-Superstardom SGA, Jimmy Butler-ish, Bruce Brown (in current UConn role)

Previous Spot: 4th

Let’s get more critical about Castle this time around. He’s got a lot of question marks as a full player and I feel I was too idyllic about what he theoretically is in my first mock, so let’s get it.

He’s disappeared in more than a few games this season. He’s a poor shooter and really needs to keep expanding his general offensive game. In theory and in high school, he’s got great star-level gravity as an on-ball player, but he’s not shown a lot of it in his UConn role that’s been more akin to Andre Jackson Jr.’s last season. Moreover, he hasn’t wowed as an off-ball guard for someone who likely *should* be on-ball for what you hope he can be even though I’ve been optimistic about it. Still, I really love the potential he has as a dynamic playmaker and great connective player who plays excellent defensive, has great size and versatility at 6’6”, and is a great finisher who plays through contact effectively. In his best games, he’s shown to be very effective as a two-way jumbo creator that we saw the high-level stuff from in high school. I think Castle could be a game changer playing next to LaMelo Ball and I’m very interested in this fit. The floor might give some pause for a guy in the top end of the lottery, but I think he has the full potential to be one of the best players in this draft when it’s said and done.

5. Portland Trail Blazers: G/F Cody Williams, Colorado

Player Comparison(s): Jaden McDaniels, Terance Mann+

Previous Spot: 5th

I really thought about sliding Cody Williams down a spot or two both off the way he’s played recently since returning from his ankle injury and a total lack of impact against Boise State on Wednesday, March 20. Much like he’s looked at times this season, Williams looked occasionally lost and lacking of any aggression on the court and this is just what concerns me about him going 5th overall.

Still, I want to stick to my guns on this and not overreact now that he has a chance of redeeming himself against Florida. Even past that, I want to buy into the guy with so many translatable bits that should show the signs of a good NBA starter: potential for self-creation and playmaking, great size, versatility as a defender, can score well as a finisher and in lanes and already has the tools to be an off-ball complementary piece. That should suit him just fine on a team like Portland early on that doesn’t need to turn him loose into the fire as a top billing piece. I’ve liked the tools he has from the jump and I think he can eventually put them all together.

6. Memphis Grizzlies: F Ron Holland, G League Ignite

Player Comparison(s): Andrew Wiggins, RJ Barrett, Jonathan Kuminga

Previous Spot: 6th

Same as it ever was for Ron Holland as one of my favorite fits for the Memphis Grizzlies in this entire draft. I’ve touched on his concerns, chief among them being the lack of 3-point shooting, but the guy is just a beast and a big, ferocious player that complements their squad and give the Grizzlies their long-haul forward.

Holland plays really physically and with a nonstop engine that’s made him into a strong scorer at the rim and excellent at playing through contact to generate more shots. He’s a perfect transition scorer for the tempo and shooting in this Memphis squad, and he also has tons of defensive tools and size to make him effective the other way. The shooting will be a key part to unlocking his upside, but with some real potential for self-creation and passing, I like this bet on a high-level piece with the chance of becoming a great player on a team that’s been rock-solid with development in recent times. He’s exactly what they need in a forward if there’s a long-term vision of a backcourt with Vince Williams Jr., Holland and Jaren Jackson Jr.

7. San Antonio Spurs (via Toronto Raptors): G/F, F Matas Buzelis, G League Ignite

Player Comparison(s): Bulls Lauri Markkanen, Danilo Gallinari, Lamar Odom-ish

Previous Spot: 9th

I thought about mirroring my first mock by having Nikola Topic and Sheppard on the same squad again. I think it still absolutely has some weight as a fit and wouldn’t mind it whatsoever. Still, the oversight of adding someone to play at the 3 as a shooter and potential cornerstone to balance the roster has been weighing on me, and something tells me that having to start a rotation player like Julian Champagnie at the 3 for 45 games out of his 60 played isn’t going to fly again. I just think Matas Buzelis will make too much sense for the Spurs.

As the Ignite closes out their season this month, we’ve seen Buzelis really start to heat up in the last month. Since January 31st, 2024 (10 GP), Buzelis has averaged 16.5 points, 8.1 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 0.8 steals, 2.6 blocks (!!!) and 2.5 turnovers on 46.3% from the field, 31.2% from 3 (1 make on 3.2 attempts) and 70.8% from the free throw line. Part of this pop could arguably arise from the loss of Ron Holland for the season with a thumb injury on 1/31, but it does feel like the game has slowed down some for Buzelis recently, and that’s a big plus for his draft stock when workouts begin soon. For his size (6’11”) and combination of skills as a shooter, cutter and rebounder will make a nice addition to this rebuilding Spurs team. Buzelis is not without his flaws, but a team like the Spurs should be happy to live with them adding another big prototypical forward next to Victor Wembanyama.

8. Houston Rockets (via Brooklyn Nets): G Nikola Topic, Red Star/KK Crvena Zvezda (Serbia)

Player Comparison(s): Less Explosive De’Aaron Fox or Russell Westbrook, Tyreke Evans

Previous Spot: 3rd

Topic drops out of my top 5 in this next version of my mock series, both in part to Reed Sheppard playing his way into the top, the need for Buzelis in the frontcourt, Topic’s play and his injury. I don’t know if it will actually happen and probably depends most on what the Spurs do with their first two picks, but I think Topic could be a good piece for the Rockets depending on what the plan is with Jalen Green and others going forward.

Topic has shown some very high-level stuff overseas, and while he hasn’t shown much shooting yet and feels limited both to a concerning floor and due to a lack of positive off-ball looks, the fact that he’s excelled with scoring at the rim and being a lead playmaker should be convincing enough to take a swing on him. He’s not all that explosive, but the pace, level of skill he has at being a floor general and vision is pretty darn good to see what sticks. The concern, of course, comes down to cleaning up the shot mechanics and hoping the elite free throw percentages will correctly predict he can become a fine shooter.

9. Utah Jazz: G Rob Dillingham, Kentucky

Player Comparison(s): Darius Garland-lite, Immanuel Quickley

Previous Spot: 9th

Currently, Utah’s protected 1-10 pick may not end up conveying for 2024. This might not be the best situation for their rebuild on paper, but Rob Dillingham falling into Danny Ainge’s lap at 9th overall is a pretty sweet consolation deal.

Here’s the thing: there’s a lot of guards on some of these lottery teams, and while I think Dilly is more than capable of being a full-fledged top 5 talent on a big board, I just don’t know how it works out in an applicable order and especially if Topic does fall. Still, I think Dillingham is insanely talented and has the potential to be one of the best players in this class when it’s all said and done. I’ve had my concerns about how real the shooting is, and he’s continued to sit comfortably over 40% from the very start of the season and finishes the regular season at 44.9% (!!!). I’ve had my concerns about what he can be as a playmaker, and he’s looked solid as a secondary guy and even had moments of a primary one. Sure, he’s not big or very filled out yet, but I think he’s easily proven he’s more than a microwave/6th man type and I’m becoming very excited about what he can be in the NBA. It’s tough to say exactly what Utah needs at this rate considering the addition of Keyonte George, keeping Jordan Clarkson and the pendulum of Collin Sexton, but if we’re operating on a BPA basis, Dilly is far and away the guy to take.

10. Atlanta Hawks: F Tidjane Salaun, Cholet (France)

Player Comparison(s): Dorian Finney-Smith+, Obi Toppin, Michael Porter Jr.

Previous Spot: 10th

Salaun is such an interesting prospect in terms of how the community rates him. I’ve seen him all over the place, but I still remain very interested in him and think he’d fit in beautifully for a team like the Atlanta Hawks.

There’s been some various tidbits in Atlanta that make things questionable going forward. Both Dejounte Murray and Trae Young have been in trade rumors. Clint Capela remains an annual target as Onyeka Okongwu continues to rise. Jalen Johnson exploded onto the scene and makes a strong case for Most Improved Player while Saddiq Bey will now be out for a good bit of next season. Based on all that, I think adding a high-upside forward that could have a chance to contribute early on regardless of a slight rebuilding/retool goes down is a fine idea. Salaun might have some inconsistencies to his game and is still very young, but his level of shotmaking, finishing, defense crazy size and wingspan at 6’10” and 7’-plus absolutely passes the eye test for me as a budding piece. I think much of what he needs to add is very coachable and even though this is higher than most have him, I think there’s something really, really good here.

11. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Houston Rockets): F/C Kyle Filipowski, Duke

Player Comparison(s): Naz Reid, Kelly Olynyk

Previous Spot: 14th

I got cooked for my previous Clingan-OKC pairing, and even though I still stand on it being a fine choice for what it is, I can certainly buy more of an OKC type of guy coming in instead of traditional archetypes. In this range, Kyle Filipowski should fit that bill to a few degrees.

Filipowski has some pretty easy selling points: he’s a 7-footer, and he can shoot 3s pretty decently. Sure, he’s not much of a defender and may not ever be great at that level, but there’s plenty of value in a floor stretcher that can shoot, score inside the arc, pass a little and has some versatility to his game that should work for a team with a style like OKC’s. It’s not easy to find guys like that and offers some good size and versatility in the frontcourt that could benefit from more of it as a primary area of addressing despite their success.

12. Chicago Bulls: G/F Dalton Knecht, Tennessee

Player Comparison(s): Mike Miller, Grayson Allen, Klay Thompson

Previous Spot: 13th

I have absolutely no idea what the plan will be with the Bulls. Maybe they finally take a hint and head into a rebuild? Maybe they stick with the unit, not make any moves in the offseason and just draft someone who can contribute now? The latter is far more likely in my mind.

Nonetheless, there are some options here for the Bulls, and Dalton Knecht is arguably the best option if they want someone they can add into the rotation now. Knecht capped the regular season off with a 40-point explosion against Kentucky, and his string of near-40 pointers against very solid SEC rivals like Auburn and North Carolina gives me confidence he’ll be electric in the NBA. There will be some obvious questions about his very spotty defense for his position and his real upside turning 23 whenever pre-draft workouts begin, but I’m convinced plenty of teams see the value in perhaps the most obvious plug-and-play off-ball shooter that will be ready to roll from game 1.

13. Portland Trail Blazers (via Golden State Warriors): G/F Johnny Furphy, Kansas

Player Comparison(s): Trey Murphy III

Previous Spot: 17th

After getting CoDub, the mission should be simple for Portland going forward: add non-guards who add complimentary high-upside, good shooting and size to their unit. Emphasis on NON-GUARDS.

Thankfully for them, Johnny Furphy checks every single one of those boxes and should be a slam dunk late lottery-mid 1st player even for the level of sketchiness and intrigue. Furphy’s gotten hot towards the end of the season and even though he’s had a few pretty poor games at the end with a lot of Kansas’ top dogs out, there’s a lot to like. He’s huge at 6’9” and has a lot of impressive athleticism and shooting in his arsenal, something you don’t often find at the NBA level. It’s also clear that Kansas HC Bill Self has a lot of confidence in him given how much he’s played. I have some more questions about what he’s able to do in a more off-ball role that he’ll have early on, but as an upside bet on him working in a role and hopefully more from here, count me in.

14. New Orleans Pelicans: C Donovan Clingan, UConn

Player Comparison(s): Mitchell Robinson, Walker Kessler

Previous Spot: 11th

I’ve harped a lot on the looming decision of what the move is with Jonas Valanciunas this summer as a free agent, and even if he stays, he’s not getting any younger or better as a fit with Zion Williamson. It’s definitely a fair question, and there’s a chance that the Pelicans could get priced out from some bigs at some point. All things considered, I think Donovan Clingan would make a lot of sense as a rim protector and glass cleaner that would fit the squad. Clingan has a ton of size and bulk at 7’2” and 280 pounds with a lot more mobility than you’d expect. He’s not going to be a shooter at any point by now, but he’s got plenty to offer with the right intangibles, touch, screening and bits of playmaking to really intrigue. It will be fascinating to see New Orleans find their next pick if they intend to do so through the draft.

15. Miami Heat: G Devin Carter, Providence

Player Comparison(s): Cason Wallace, De’Anthony Melton, Jrue Holiday-lite

Previous Spot: 23rd

Providence’s season ended under a lot of heat with many pegging them as one of the biggest snubs of the NCAA Men’s Tournament. Even still, Carter had one heck of a breakout season that’s sure to garner lots of 1st round appeal from NBA teams. I wouldn’t be surprised to see him fall anywhere from the late lottery to the 20s, and I think the Heat wouldn’t pass up the opportunity to get a high-upside, two-way dawg that will slide into the culture well.

The scoring took a nice jump this season, and his 3-point shot finally starting to drop added with his defensive excellence will gives NBA teams a lot to like. The shot and its mechanics will be a point to watch for him since this is the first season he’s been even average as a shooter, but I think it’s something teams should be able to live with considering the full package of versatility and defensive instincts. I also love a guard who can rebound at a high level, and his 8.7 rebounds as a 6’3” combo guard is a thing of pure beauty. I have no trouble believing Carter could be one of the best players in this class with plenty of hindsight.

16. Toronto Raptors (via Indiana Pacers): G Isaiah Collier, USC

Player Comparison(s): Eric Bledsoe, Raymond Felton, bulkier Stephon Marbury or Steve Francis

Previous Spot: 16th

It’s been a nightmare of a season for USC as a whole that exposed some of Collier’s concerns, but what remains is still some of what we like about him: he’s physical, can play through contact, can make plays for others, and can move both on and off the ball decently. He has his concerns as a poor shooter and needs to tune up on his decision making and turning the ball over too much, but in an environment with less pressure in a backup role that doesn’t necessarily need his shooting to gel, I like his potential in Toronto where he can thrive with the 2nd unit. I think he could be a big benefactor from Darko Rajakovic’s free-flowing system known for its passing strengths.

17. Philadelphia 76ers: F, F/C Tyler Smith, G League Ignite

Player Comparison(s): Trey Lyles, Brandon Clarke, Jabari Smith Jr.-ish

Previous Spot: 17th

Even though Tyler Smith has caused some recent concern regarding his 3-point shooting that may not come at a high rate at the NBA level, but I’m still sold that he’s got a great floor as an immediate rotation player that should make an impact anywhere. I quite like this fit with the 76ers if they do make this pick and think his full repertoire as a guy with athleticism, shooting, physicality, feel for the game, versatility both ways and has the swing skills to become really good. The two big things will be how the defense and shooting come along, but I do like to believe both certainly can in the right environment.

18. Orlando Magic: G/F Ja’Kobe Walter, Baylor

Player Comparison(s): Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Tim Hardaway Jr., Gary Trent Jr.

Previous Spot: 12th

Ja’Kobe Walter drops from my 2024 lottery after a finish to forget this season. Walter cooled off considerably as cracks in the foundation started to show and people looked past the hot shooting. Walter gets cold and inconsistent too often in this department, and his poor creation doesn’t help when you project his role as an early bucket getter that’s likely to be inefficient for a bit. The good defense helps, and he is indeed a good shooter and has some other tricks in his bag to be a gifted scorer, but I think it’s clear he’s got a lot more to fix up to get to a good level. `All that being said, I think he’s a great add for the Orlando Magic, who could really do with more shooting to continue shoring their group up.

19. New York Knicks: C Kel’el Ware, Indiana

Player Comparison(s): Wendell Carter Jr.

Previous Spot: 25th

Kel’el Ware has had a pretty solid season in Indiana after a rough go in Oregon as a freshman, and the way he closed out his season felt like a great effort to up his draft stock after some fair questions about his motor, inconsistencies on offense and his level of play against other bigs. He’s a solid athletic big that has a lot of fluidity and potential with possible passing touches and shotmaking that ups his ceiling to a nice degree and there’s no question that he’ll find a great suitor that wants to unlock this great ceiling. I’d be intrigued if the Knicks decide to take Ware as a backup and eventual incumbent to Mitchell Robinson, but I also don’t really buy New York using both of their firsts, so we’ll see.

20. New York Knicks: G/F Kevin McCullar Jr., Kansas

Player Comparison(s): Josh Hart, Bruce Brown

Previous Spot: 19th

We got some rough news this week as Kevin McCullar Jr. will be forced to miss the entire NCAA Men’s Tournament due to a lingering knee injury. This will gravely impact Kansas’ run this season after a strong season from McCullar.

Still, this will hardly impact his draft stock for me for the time being. I believe he goes in the first round barring any problems in his medicals or anything related. His floor as a 3-point shooter and high-level wing defender has been very clear all throughout his season senior, and he’ll come in as one of the most pro-ready players in this draft. I have my share of concerns about his age, his prior college seasons without a lot of high-level work and having a Master of None vibe to him, but he undeniably shouldn’t have an issue contributing to teams. For a team like the Hawks that take a high-upside swing early on with a lot of questions, McCullar should be a strong piece if they choose to hedge their bets on pushing this core forward.

21. Phoenix Suns: G Jared McCain

Player Comparison(s): Gabe Vincent, Landry Shamet, Tre Mann

Previous Spot: 29th

If there’s one thing that will absolutely be the case for this draft, it’s that Jared McCain has more than enough brilliant shotmaking to get him on a team in the first round. I have my share of concerns about him as a total package, but this level of scoring and being able to get a bucket without being a “me, me, me” type of player makes him a great piece to invest in.

22. Atlanta Hawks: C Yves Missi, Baylor

Player Comparison(s): DeAndre Ayton, Nerlens Noel with better offense

Previous Spot: 22nd

Missi has a lot of impressive physical tools in his arsenal as a 7-footer with a 7’5” wingspan with excellent mobility and can hang tough against competition. The skills as a rim protector, shot blocker and lob threat come across clear as day in an NBA role and once he starts to develop further and bulk more and more, there’s no telling how solid he can be as a real starter. He’s going to need some time to tune up his instincts and touch at and around the rim, but with this level of upside, I have to think a team bringing him along slowly will turn him into a dawg.

23. New Orleans Pelicans: G/F Kyshawn George, Miami

Player Comparison(s): Cameron Johnson, Dyson Daniels with a 3PT shot

Previous Spot: 18th

George perfumed at a darn good level to close out Miami’s season and should’ve more than proven he could be a solid player with the level of shotmaking for his 6’8” size. He’s a good shooter and has some exciting upside with his passing and ball handling skills that offer a ton of questions about what he can be. However, the biggest concern is going to be his overall athleticism and physicality. Beyond just a lack of general explosion in his game, George really doesn’t know how to use size to his advantage on the court, and that could be a concern as a late bloomer freshman. Regardless, I still love the fit of him in New Orleans as a team I could easily see figuring him out.

24. Milwaukee Bucks: G/F Ryan Dunn, Virginia

Player Comparison(s): Herbert Jones, Otto Porter Jr.

Previous Spot: 20th

Enough’s been said about it, but it bears repeating: the fact that Ryan Dunn was snubbed from the Naismith DPOY this season is just ludicrous as one of the best defenders in the country. Either way, it’s pretty clear he’ll bring that great defensive skill right up into the NBA and should be able to find himself a role with some level of ease.

The biggest problem will simply be the same problem I’ve expressed before: he’s just not an offensive player. He brings very little to the table on that end despite a few flashes and he isn’t much of a shooter either. Still, for the lockdown level of defensive versatility and tenacity on that end of the floor, I have to believe he’ll find a home in a rotation and I think he’d make some sense with the Milwaukee Bucks should he fall past the top 18-22 range.

25. Cleveland Cavaliers: F/C PJ Hall, Clemson

Player Comparison(s): Zach Collins, Trey Lyles, Larry Nance Jr.

Previous Spot: 26th

I won’t give you another long rant about PJ Hall on my Cavs after last time, but I’ll say this: glue guys are always needed on good teams, the Cavs would really do with one at this moment given the amount of injuries, and Hall hits on both that and the versatile needs of such a team.

Hall’s tools as this big glue guy at 6’10” are going to make him pretty good as a long-term rotation piece as a shooter, floor spacer, decent and versatile defender and someone with a steady feel for the game. The role for him in the NBA feels very obvious if he continues to thrive and do the right things to make himself valuable, especially when it comes time to adding a piece that can play with either of Mobley or Allen immediately and in the future should plans change for the two-big system.

26. Washington Wizards (via Los Angeles Clippers): G Tyler Kolek, Marquette

Player Comparison(s): TJ McConnell, Grizzlies Tyus Jones

Previous Spot: 24th

Yeah, I know people will hate this one. I’ve stood by it since my 1.0 mock and I’ll continue to say it: Tyler Kolek is absolutely an NBA-level player and I think he should have no problem thriving at the next level.

Sure, maybe it’s a reach at 26, and I get the worries about the measurements and lack of athleticism that could segue into questions about how much of a scorer and finisher he can be at the next level, but this level of feel for the game at such a difficult position is invaluable for teams. Such a team like the Wizards who need this kind of floor raiser both for their full squad and to make life easy for their cornerstone in Sarr is important and there’s not a single guard left on the board that offers this good of a feel for leading an offense, much less a Marquette offense that’s consistently been ranked in the upper echelon of college ball for all three years he’s started. The shooting, passing and pro-level plays should be easily translatable for a guy this ready as a table setter.

27. Minnesota Timberwolves: F Tristan Da Silva, Colorado

Player Comparison(s): Jake LaRavia+, Thad Young-ish, Kyle Anderson

Previous Spot: 30th

Da Silva came out ready to roll against Boise State, and this tournament run by Colorado combined with a solid, steady role all year could be a big boost to his draft stock.

Da Silva might have some concerns on his athleticism, but he more than makes up for it in his creativity as a player: he can shoot, finish at the rim, play defense and has really interesting complementary passing that should make him easily slide into a rotation role early on. For a team that could benefit from another steady rotation piece and already knowing what to do with Kyle Anderson, the Timberwolves could find something really good in Da Silva to help them win now as a high-caliber squad gearing up for the playoffs.

28. Utah Jazz (via Oklahoma City Thunder): F Bobi Klintman, Cairns (NBL)

Player Comparison(s): DeAndre Hunter, Kyle Kuzma, Kevin Knox+

Previous Spot: 21st

The selling point of Klintman is going to rest solely on what team acknowledges that they can live with the rawness with his age, his up and down performances and how to develop his feel for the game. The Jazz feel like the team up for the job of getting him there, and I think they’ll be happy they did getting a 6’9-6’10” forward with legit shotmaking and defensive skills. He really will need the time and the opportunity to grow into himself and what his game will look like, but it’s tough not to be at least intrigued by the tape, especially seeing the ball handling potential.

29. Denver Nuggets: F/C DaRon Holmes II, Dayton

Player Comparison(s): Daniel Gafford, Nic Claxton-ish

Previous Spot: 27th

We’ll get to take a good look at Holmes this week and hopefully beyond as Dayton faces off against Nevada. Even still, Holmes’ body of work as a steady center and rim protector is solid enough for me to slide him into the first round still. There is some hope for a shot to come around, but even if it never does, everything about Holmes’ game as a solid defender and post/paint scorer makes him an excellent complement to Nikola Jokic. The Nuggets have sorely been missing a consistent backup big behind Jokic, and I think Holmes seems pretty cut out for this role where he can make a big impact.

30. Boston Celtics: G/F Jamir Watkins, FSU

Player Comparison(s): Vince Williams Jr.

Previous Spot: 32nd

I keep getting higher and higher on Jamir Watkins as time goes on, and I’m thrilled to officially move him into the 1st round. There’s a genuine possibility he could end up going higher if the right teams see and love the fit like I think they might. As Baba Miller continues to underwhelm, Watkins has ascended to Leonard Hamilton’s best player in Tallahassee this season. He strikes me as an exciting high-value rotation piece in the same mold as someone like Vince Williams Jr. or other do-it-all wings: good size, physicality and defense, good rebounding, good scoring and is showing some positive signs as a shooter. He’s also very athletic and has some really strong verticality. As I mentioned in my 1.0 mock, Watkins hasn’t really wowed from 3 with 1 make on 2.9 attempts (34.4%), but the mechanics look sound and he’s got the potential and metrics to suggest he’ll improve (79.5% FT). I love players that can both play through and draw contact to generate free throws, and Watkins has done a stellar job of it with 6.2 attempts per game and making 4.9 of them. There are better homes for him than Boston, but I still think Watkins has the juice to become an immediate key rotation piece on this championship-hopeful squad.

Round 2

31. Utah Jazz (via Washington Wizards): G/F Jaylon Tyson, California

Player Comparison(s): Dillon Brooks-ish, Tobias Harris

Previous Spot: 28th

Tyson has a great floor at the next level if he’s able to effectively scale down his heavy usage role into one more off the ball. I have my share of concerns about that having not done it all that well to date, but I think his creativity as a slasher with a well-rounded game can help him find a strong role and thrive. The biggest key will be the adjustment while continuing to shoot at a decent clip. Tons of talent here as he continues to evolve in an NBA-level role.

32. Toronto Raptors (via Detroit Pistons): G Ajay Mitchell, UC Santa Barbara

Player Comparison(s): Mavs Jalen Brunson, Brandin Podziemski

Previous Spot: 46th

Mitchell just oozes talent as a crafty combo and lead guard who just knocks how to use his change of pace, passing, shooting and skills to manipulate defenses at will. He had the game of his life against Long Beach State a few days ago and even though there are concerns about his 3-point shooting and defense, his good moments are very telling that there’s something there that can grow. I’m very in on him being a solid NBA player. His resemblance to guys like Brandin Podziemski and Jalen Brunson are sometimes uncanny.

33. San Antonio Spurs: G/F Justin Edwards, Kentucky

Player Comparison(s): Cam Reddish

Previous Spot: Off the Board

Just when I thought I was out, THEY PULL ME BACK IN! Justin Edwards has had a rough season as a whole that dropped him from the higher tiers early on and nearly left him undraftable for me, but for what it’s worth, he’s really pulled it together these last few weeks. The shot hasn’t fallen in a few games here and there, but since early February, he’s hit his strides well both statistically and from the eye test. He’s looking like a legitimately valuable 3&D player with a lot more room to grow in the same vein as someone like Cam Reddish, and I think his current level of upside when the shot does fall combined with his size, feel for the game and floor as a defender is good enough for me in this range. The Spurs have all the time in the world for him and a strong need for this type of guy.

34. Portland Trail Blazers (via Charlotte Hornets): G/F, F Kwame Evans Jr., Oregon

Player Comparison(s): Raw Jalen Johnson, Tari Eason-ish, Kyle Anderson

Previous Spot: 39th

I continue to get higher on Kwame Evans Jr. over time and I’m really looking forward to how he fares during the Tournament. He might be raw offensively, but his frame and his level of skills as a two-way player with potential as a shooter and handling the ball as a wing at 6’9” is ridiculously impressive to me. There’s definitely some point-forward stuff here as I mentioned last time and even if he’ll likely need some time to become a full-fledged piece, much less a complete vision of a full NBA player, this is a swing that’s about as low-risk, high reward as it comes for a rebuilding team at 34.

35. Milwaukee Bucks (via Portland Trail Blazers): F/C Oso Ighodaro, Marquette

Player Comparison(s): Kevon Looney-ish

Previous Spot: 33rd

Oso Ighodaro offers a lot of intrigue as a big with real passing touch at Marquette. He can defend well enough at the rim and on the perimeter, he’s a nice rebounder, he has good athleticism and above-the-rim play, he can be a lob threat with versatility on both ends and he offers nice floor spacing as both a passer and a screener. I have my doubts about what he can be at the next level or if he can ever be a starter, but teams should buy into the potential dimensions he adds even in a backup role.

36. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Memphis Grizzlies): G Carlton “Bub” Carrington, Pitt

Player Comparison(s): D’Angelo Russell-lite, Collin Sexton with more PG skills

Previous Spot: 49th

Despite the fact that the Timberwolves are steadily performing well and Mike Conley is aging like fine wine, life after him will eventually need to be addressed for the long haul. Tim Connelly has been a very savvy drafter in these past few years particularly on good upside swings, and after addressing a potential rotation need with the addition of Tristan Da Silva, Bub Carrington could be exactly the guy brought along to build him up for a long-term role. It’s been an interesting freshman season for Carrington, who came out cooking, cooled off and got cooking again at the end. The season he’s had could easily lead to him either staying for 2025 or going ASAP. On one hand, he’s been more than able to get his own shot and is an electric shotmaker at that. He can shoot from 3 with confidence and pass and rebound the heck out of the ball for being 18. On the other hand, he’s built more than a few brick houses in games and the lack of finishing at the rim (28/52 in 33 GP, 53.8%) concerns me a lot. Still, Carrington’s shotmaking is juicy and should be enough of a selling point to get him on an NBA team this year if he does declare.

37. Philadelphia 76ers (via Toronto Raptors): F Dillon Jones, Weber State

Player Comparison(s): David Roddy, Grant Williams with better defense

Previous Spot: 36th

Dillon Jones is both arguably the best mid-major player in college ball, but he’s also such a weird NBA fit. He plays like an undersized 4 who also doesn’t have any above-the-rim play, but he’s also got legitimate ball handling skills, self-creation and slashing. He ALSO plays a ton on the ball at Weber State and will need to translate his game into a smaller role. The biggest skill will be based on the 3-point shooting and I think the 76ers could find something in him based on the talent.

38. Memphis Grizzlies (via Brooklyn Nets): F/C Zvonimir Ivisic, Kentucky

Player Comparison(s): Zydrunas Ilgauskas-lite? Young Kristaps Porzingis?

Previous Spot: 38th

The man of mystery stays on my board at 38. We still have the same level of (little) clarity on his future with Kentucky vs. the NBA that we had from my 1.0. Again, we also haven’t seen a whole lot of Ivisic to determine what he fully can be.

Still, the flashes of Ivisic when he is rolling have been awesome, and this type of stretch 5 in this draft who might be able to do it all has some special potential, especially when added to a good developmental program like Memphis. It’s all pretty nice: he shoots, he rebounds, he can play physically, he can defend, he can pass a little, and he’s 20. If he’s in this draft, someone takes him for sure, and I wouldn’t be surprised if it’s higher than this.

39. New York Knicks: C Zach Edey, Purdue

Player Comparison(s): Ivica Zubac

Previous Spot: 44th

Edey slides up a bit from my previous spot. I’m weary to move him up much further off the same basis of his overall fit at the next level and some of the limitations of his size. Even still, as I and many others have said, the guy is talented and having one of the best statistical collegiate seasons ever and is among the the most dominant rebounders in the entire world right now. His size should be enough to entice, but he’s got some little moves, touch around the rim and brute strength that should make him a plug-and-play energy guy and rim anchor. I think there could and probably should be a real rotation role for him if his team can find his fit.

40. Portland Trail Blazers (via Atlanta Hawks): F/C Izan Almansa, G League Ignite

Player Comparison(s): Richaun Holmes, Al Horford-lite

Previous Spot: 37th

The bigger run on big men continues in the end of the 30s, and Izan Almansa concludes this list on his way to Portland. As one of the youngest players with NBA intrigue for this draft, Almansa offers a great deal of potential and exciting athleticism that he got to flash with the Ignite this season. He’s not all set on the offensive end of the ball yet, but he’s got great defensive techniques, skills and athleticism that are more than enough to excite about what he can turn into. I love the energy and motor that can potentially work him into a role sooner than later if he keeps getting better as a rim runner and roll-man.

41. Charlotte Hornets (via Houston Rockets): G/F Alex Karaban, UConn

Player Comparison(s): Duncan Robinson, Jae Crowder-ish

Previous Spot: 42nd

So, here’s a fun fact: Alex Karaban almost joined the 50-40-90 club this regular season as a sophomore at UConn. Karaban shot an impressive 50.1% FG, 39.5% 3PT and 88.9% FT and will be one of UConn’s biggest X-factors in the hope of repeating in the NCAA Men’s Tournament. For an NBA team, though, Karaban should be a high-value catch-and-shoot specialist from the jump and even has a little bit more to him with his size and defense. I’m very interested in what role he secures with the dream who drafts him.

42. Boston Celtics (via Chicago Bulls): G Hunter Sallis, Wake Forest

Player Comparison(s): Tre Mann, Ayo Dosumnu, Bryn Forbes

Previous Spot: 45th

Sallis remains firmly in my 2nd round that could easily rise if a team really buys into the full package as an athlete, multi-level performer and playmaker. I don’t really think the playmaking is all there, but it doesn’t need to be if the scoring can continue to blossom as it has. He’s been on a season-long heater being able to create his own shot and should be a great catch-and-shoot guy at the next level with more to his scoring bag.

43. Houston Rockets (via Golden State Warriors): F/C Adem Bona, UCLA

Player Comparison(s): Precious Achiuwa, Usman Garuba+

Previous Spot: 41st

Not much has really changed for Bona. He’s good at what he’s good at and still can’t do the other things as much. I love the freak athleticism, crazy-high motor and nice fluidity that makes him a good rotational big as a finisher and post player. He’s very prone to turnovers and getting into foul trouble and still doesn’t have a lot of evolved skills past what we knew he could do all of this and last season with more usage. Still should be a good energy guy, though.

44. San Antonio Spurs (via Los Angeles Lakers): F Coleman Hawkins, Illinois

Player Comparison(s): Jaylin Williams (the OKC PF/C)

Previous Spot: 50th

The appeal for Hawkins is pretty easy to grasp: he’s a stretch 4 with a good feel that can shoot and pass. He’s continued to get better and prove himself as a winning two-way player with great connective qualities but I still have some questions as to his level of consistent skill at his age. Regardless, I think a rotation role is perfectly within reason for his array of skills.

45. Miami Heat: G/F Wooga Poplar, Miami

Player Comparison(s): Wesley Matthews

Previous Spot: 35th

I go back and forth on where Wooga Poplar should go pretty often. He’s dropped since my last draft in large part to his spotty play that’s offered very little in Miami’s 9-game losing streak. The shotmaking and athleticism is still solid, but he’s prone to turnovers and hasn’t shown many playmaking chops. I have questions about his defense and overall impact but I still like what I see.

46. Los Angeles Clippers (via Indiana Pacers): G/F Melvin Ajinca, St. Quentin (France)

Player Comparison(s): Cedi Osman, Danny Green

Previous Spot: 34th

It’s pretty clear that Melvin Ajinca is a pretty talented shotmaker and has the juice to be more than a typical 3-point specialist or bucket-only type of guy. He’s got some real defense and rebounding in his skillset, and his size is definitely interesting. The issue that I brought up in my last mock is that Ajinca just cannot create for himself, for others or pass in legitimately any capacity right now. As we touched on last time, he’s only recorded one single assist in a game from November 25, 2023 to March 4th, 2024. His only assist in three full months came on February 13 and he’s only recorded 17 assists in 27 total games in 2023-2024. What can he really be if he’s only a bucket right now? He should be an interesting project for a team to take on if the Clippers want some higher upside in a shotmaker.

47. Philadelphia 76ers: FORFEITED

48. Boston Celtics (via Dallas Mavericks): G Zeke Mayo, South Dakota State

Player Comparison(s): Pre-breakout Coby White, Cole Anthony

Previous Spot: 47th

You all should know by now that I’m a big Zeke Mayo guy, and I’m really looking forward to his 15-seeded South Dakota State Jackrabbits in the first round of the tournament. A strong scorer, rebounder and passer, Mayo is a great shotmaker and lead guard that can both finish and draw contact effectively at the rim. His defense and improving turnovers will be the key to his success that I think he can comfortably achieve at the NBA level. He’s one of the most underrated players of 2024 that deserves the love for his strong guard skills.

49. Orlando Magic: G/F Payton Sandfort, Iowa

Player Comparison(s): Joe Harris

Previous Spot: 49th

What makes Sandfort such an interesting wing shooter in this range is that the role feels so much more projectable than a specialist and a lot closer to a really good supporting player and movement shooter akin to Joe Harris. Sandfort has really wowed as a fiery shooter averaging 7 3PT attempts and making 36.5%. He’s steadily averaged a hair under 90% as a free throw shooter through 3 seasons (89.8%) that’s sure to instill confidence, and with his 6’7” size and potential for being even an average defender with good coaching, it’s not hard to see Sandfort being a really solid pro. Consider me a fan and someone hoping he goes higher.

50. Sacramento Kings: F/C Johni Broome, Auburn

Player Comparison(s): Drew Eubanks with better defense

Previous Spot: UDFA Range

Broome makes his move up my board after a strong finish to the season with Auburn. As a finalist for the 2024 Naismith DPOY, I’m eager to see how he aids Auburn in his tournament run where he could raise his stock. For what it’s worth and the bigs left on the board for Sacramento to bolster their bench with, I think Broome feels like an easy choice here. A great defender and shot blocker, Broome fits the bill as a good rotational big who can make a good impact in the paint both ways and can even shoot and pass a little bit.

51. Washington Wizards (via Phoenix Suns): G, G/F Adama Bal, Santa Clara

Player Comparison(s): Dalano Banton, Shake Milton

Previous Spot: 43rd

Bal drops a few spots here with the shifting of some spots, but falls right to the Wizards for a great fit in their rebuild. Bal will come in needing some time to develop, figure out his role and get into developing his feel, but the tools are all there for a big guard-wing (at 6’7”) with growth to his shooting and ability to play on the ball as a scorer and playmaker. This is also a great upside swing in this range for Washington doing what they can to pick up on strong talent.

52. Detroit Pistons (via New York Knicks): F Pacome Dadiet, Ratiopharm Ulm

Player Comparison(s): Aaron Nesmith, Isaac Okoro-ish

Previous Spot: 40th

Shotmaking will remain the name of the game, and Pacome Dadiet slots in as just what the Pistons could use in a 3&D archetypical guy with more room to grow. Depending on how soon he would come to the NBA if he opted to stay overseas, Dadiet has a lot of solid defensive technique and strong shotmaking that can make him an interesting movement shooter. For still being 18 and relatively raw, this feels like a solid investment for Detroit.

53. Indiana Pacers (via New Orleans Pelicans): G Jamal Shead, Houston

Player Comparison(s): Miles McBride

Previous Spot: UDFA

Shead lands on my board as someone I’m buying as a tournament riser. He’s been an excellent POA defender all season long, and that level of tenacity on and off the ball combined with his solid passing will be how he makes his bread at the next level in the NBA. I don’t know how much offense he can really add as a scorer, but I think his other skills mixed with a little bit make it work.

54. Indiana Pacers (via Cleveland Cavaliers): F/C Trevon Brazile, Arkansas

Player Comparison(s): Mo Wagner

Previous Spot: 52nd

Brazile is still teetering on the edge in this range and I have no idea if he ends up declaring in this draft or staying. He’s got some skills with a jumper and big body that probably ends up being best in a floor spacing role, but beyond just being a black hole with the ball in his hands, I just don’t know if he’s showing me enough to really be more than a late flier.

55. Indiana Pacers (via Milwaukee Bucks): G/F Nique Clifford, Colorado State

Player Comparison(s): Vince Williams Jr., early career Mikal Bridges

Previous Spot: UDFA

Nique Clifford has been a regular UDFA ranged player for me all season, but his spicy performance to blow out Virginia in a 25-point dub has convinced me to finally give him the nod as other guys slid. The athleticism still underwhelms me by and large, but he’s been addressing a lot of my concerns with his play at the rim, his versatility and passing that makes him a bit of a do-everything player. He’s not Mikal Bridges and won’t be Mikal Bridges so don’t take that too seriously, buttttt… there is some vibes there.

56. Los Angeles Lakers (via Los Angeles Clippers): G Kylan Boswell, Arizona

Player Comparison(s): Craig Porter Jr., Kyle Lowry-lite, Davion Mitchell

Previous Spot: 56th

Boswell’s picked it up after a rough stint as Arizona headed towards the end of the season. Despite his 6’2” size, Boswell is built like a truck at 200 pounds, is still 18 as a sophomore and plays through contact well. He’s far from ready to contribute at the NBA level yet to me, but I like the swing on a good defensive guard with more to build on.

57. Denver Nuggets (via Memphis Grizzlies): F Harrison Ingram, UNC

Player Comparison(s): Nassir Little

Previous Spot: 58th

Denver doesn’t need much, and neither does Ingram to make an impact. He’s been nice for UNC as a big forward who can defend, play a point-forward role where he can make good plays, has a strong feel for the game, can shoot a little bit and plays with a high motor. His shooting continuing to click will be the key to make him anything more than a rotation piece, but there’s enough pluses here to like in this range.

58. Memphis Grizzlies (via Oklahoma City Thunder): G/F Baylor Scheierman, Creighton

Player Comparison(s): Pat Connaughton

Previous Spot: UDFA

Scheierman gives me some questions about his pro abilities, but the 3-point shooting is nice enough for me to at least think he gets a late look or an early undrafted pickup. He’s a good rebounder with some passing touch despite some concerns about his full range of abilities and defense at this rate.

59. Phoenix Suns: FORFEITED

60. Dallas Mavericks (via Boston Celtics): G/F Kobe Johnson, USC

Player Comparison(s): Josh Green, Cody Martin

Previous Spot: 53rd

Kobe Johnson has really underwhelmed by the end of the season, particularly on the offensive end. I still have to believe his tools as a defender and low-minute glue guy are enough to outweigh some of the erratic shooting, scoring and poor handle.

Top Undrafted Free Agent Targets

G Juan Nunez, Ratiopharm Ulm

G Pelle Larsson, Arizona

F Jonathan Mogbo, San Francisco

G/F Teafale Lenard Jr., Texas Legends (G League)

F/C Grant Nelson, Alabama

F Keshad Johnson, Arizona

G Reece Beekman, Virginia

F JoJo Tugler, Houston

G Antonio Reeves, Kentucky

G Kam Jones, Marquette

G Xavien Lee, Princeton

C Hunter Dickinson, Kansas

G Cam Spencer, UConn

G Tristen Newton, UConn

Notable Exclusions

F Collin Murray-Boyles, South Carolina

The recent announcement by Murray-Boyles to The State that he plans to return to South Carolina for his sophomore season throws a big wrench to draft boards for one of this month’s biggest risers. I’d selfishly like to see him test the draft waters this offseason, but I also believe that he’s about a viable jumpshot away from being a very solid NBA player. Considering the rising stock as one of the youngest eligible players, I think NBA teams would be very willing to take a chance at helping him develop that shot at cost now than the chance of rising even higher in the 2025 draft. There is also the worry of his return to South Carolina, the shot not developing and remaining in a similar, if not lower, opportunity as a result of the much more strong class. I ultimately believe he should, at minimum, gauge NBA interest this offseason.

Potential Draft Range: Late 1st to early 2nd round

G/F Terrence Shannon Jr., Illinois

I’ve chosen to omit Terrence Shannon Jr. from all of my big boards and mock drafts this season due to his ongoing legal concerns stemming from December 2023 rape charges based on allegations from September of the same year. After his suspension and return via lawsuit from his legal team, he has since been cleared to play until the trial begins in May. I don’t intend to speak on his innocence or guilt at this time. However, I will say that it’s very clear that Shannon is a solid player and shown a lot of good NBA-level skills through his 5-year college career. However, skillful or not, his NBA future will certainly come down to a verdict.

Potential Draft Range: Late 1st-early 2nd to undrafted

G/F Bronny James, USC

I’ll start this off and say that Bronny James going into this draft was never in the cards by now. It’s been a tough go for James ever since he suffered a cardiac arrest back in July that left him unable to practice with the team until early December and debut on December 10, 2023. James hasn’t gotten a lot of opportunities to shine yet between limited minutes, so-so play at times and the nightmare season USC’s had, but he’s undoubtedly flashed some decent potential in bits so far. He’ll set his sights on a bigger role with USC next season, but even at this level, I do think there are some potential NBA-level skills and he still has a non-zero chance of being drafted.

Potential Draft Range: mid-2nd to undrafted (on the premise of netting LeBron)

Final Thoughts

That should just about do it for my newest 2024 mock draft today! There might be a few names I missed. If there was anyone in particular you’re not seeing that isn’t on my Off the Board list from 1.0, feel free to let me know.

If you liked this mock draft and want to see more, I would greatly appreciate you all dropping a like, commenting here or on Twitter, or following to be the first to see my content. Hope you enjoyed!