Ultimate Dizzle Dynasty Mock Draft!
Zach and Brian break out their final mock draft of the 2024 NBA Draft Cycle. This mock includes some trades as they break down their thoughts on what might happen on Draft Night. (Credit NBA/Photo)
We are finally here! The 2024 NBA Draft is tomorrow! Chaos is on the horizon! We’ve already seen a deal go down involving the OKC Thunder and the Chicago Bulls and there is buzz and smoke everywhere. This draft will be unpredictable and we could see some wild stuff go down. So let's celebrate with one final mock draft before pandemonium reigns.
This is a mock on what we think WILL HAPPEN on Draft Night, not what we would do.
Brian = Odds + Jazz
Zach = Evens + Cavs
Round 1
1. Atlanta Hawks: Zaccharie Risacher/JL Bourg
Brian: This is not what I would do at all. I would just take Sarr, but if Sarr doesn’t want to go to Atlanta, that’s fine. Risacher is currently the favorite to go #1. I’m willing to bet they have him in a tier with Donovan Clingan at the top of the draft. Given that two way wings are the rave, I could see them just taking Risacher. I’m leaning 52% Risacher and 48% Clingan for them. However, Risacher should be able to help them out at the wing position. He’ll play and might honestly start immediately with the Hawks wanting to offload De’Andre Hunter. As you can see by my ranking of Risacher, I think this would be a very poor use of resources but it is what it is. Welcome to the 2024 NBA Draft.
Brian Big Board Rank: 11
Zach Big Board Rank: 10
2. Washington Wizards: Alexandre Sarr/Perth
Zach: So, things got real interesting this week with the news that the Atlanta Hawks have not only been unable to get a workout with Sarr, the closest thing to a 1.01 consensus, but also seem to want one of Clingan or Risacher. As we saw above, Brian predicted that they would take Clingan, and I think I agree on that guess. However, this next pick will take all guesswork out of things with Washington getting their dream guy all cycle with Sarr, their big man of the future and long-term building block for the rebuild.
Brian Big Board Rank: 1
Zach Big Board Rank: 1
3. Houston Rockets: Reed Sheppard/Kentucky
Brian: Rafael Stone has leaned into analytics more than most in his tenure as a GM. There isn’t an analytic darling quite like Reed Sheppard in this draft. Yes he’s small, but Houston has the size to deal with that. He’s a good shooter, pesky defender, and I think he could end up being an on ball creator at some point. I think there is some massive potential here with Sheppard. The fit with Amen Thompson is fantastic. At some point, Houston is going to have to do a consolidation trade, but Sheppard should be able to fit with whoever comes in. I’m not as high on Jalen Green, I think he could be a good 6th man if he’s willing to buy into that. However, we will see. Wind is blowing in a lot of different directions right now, so it's hard to say what will happen.
Brian Big Board Rank: 2
Zach Big Board Rank: 2
4. San Antonio Spurs: Stephon Castle/UCONN
Zach: Washington ending up with Sarr will shake up a lot of my predictions, starting with Stephon Castle making it down to the Spurs. In my opinion, Castle should be among the highest players on the Spurs’ board if they believe he can be a starting point guard in the NBA. I personally believe he can based on what we’ve seen in high school and in spurts of the UConn role, but even if it takes him some time to keep evolving offensively and become a more consistent shooter, his fantastic defense and connective play he developed in his smaller role at UConn should instill confidence he can get on the court early and often as he works into Gregg Popovich and co.’s ideal role.
Brian Big Board Rank: 3
Zach Big Board Rank: 3
5. Portland Trail Blazers (via DET): Donovan Clingan/UCONN
Detroit: 7th overall pick (via POR), 40th overall pick (via POR), Robert Williams, Jabari Walker
Portland: 5th overall pick (via DET), 54th overall pick (via DET)
Brian: So why does Portland do this? Portland is near the tax line, amazingly. Reports seem to be circulating that they like Donovan Clingan. Clingan could be what Steven Adams was to Russell Westbrook but better. They still have DeAndre Ayton, but that might not be long-term. It’s worth remembering that Clingan has some injury concerns and didn’t play a ton of minutes in college. I doubt he’ll be able to play heavy minutes very early in his career. Playing as a very good backup center for Portland that can set the tone defensively is very valuable. They can easily take another wing later at 14 as well.
Brian Big Board Rank: 6
Zach Big Board Rank: 5
6. Chicago Bulls (via CHA): Matas Buzelis/G League Ignite
3-team trade (CHI, CHA, MIL):
MIL receives: Ayo Dosumnu
CHA receives: 11th overall pick (via CHI), 23rd overall pick (via MIL), 2028 2nd (via CHI)
CHI receives: 6th overall pick, Pat Connaughton
Zach: We have our next trade of the Dizzle Dynasty Ultimate Mock Draft! I’ve agonized a lot over the Charlotte Hornets’ selections since the lottery and I think the possibility of moving down is growing a lot stronger. With that, there’s been some traction on the Chicago Bulls allegedly wanting to move up to take their hometown guy, Matas Buzelis. Buzelis has his share of concerns, but what he offers in terms of potential as the Bulls’ first true power forward in a hot minute is enticing. With impressive length, height and a growing shooting stroke, there’s a chance he could be a solid building block with Coby White if a rebuild begins soon. If the Bulls can get the version of Buzelis we saw blossoming in the last two months of the Ignite’s season, they’re getting a good one.
Brian Big Board Rank: 9
Zach Big Board Rank: 6
7. Detroit Pistons (via POR): Cody Williams/Colorado
Brian: Here the Pistons take a chance on Cody Williams after moving down. The Pistons need shooting, and Cody might be able to provide that. He can be another project that Fred Vinson could take on. He is trending up and that probably means he’s dominating in workouts and shooting the ball well. He’s looking a bit more like the guy we saw at the start of the season.
Detroit does this to take a flier on Robert Williams. Someone who has been on a good team and will help someone like Duren. Now, given his health, it might take something a bit more to get off of him. Jabari Walker is on a one year deal and likely won’t be a huge priority to return. I like Jabari Walker, I think he could be a rotation player, and I think Detroit just needs talent. Walker can’t shoot great, but it's better than what they have. They also swap second round picks to complete the deal. I get they have 20 big men on their roster (obviously an exaggeration), but what does Langdon want to prioritize? Wiseman likely won’t be back. They should look to move Stewart, but time will tell what they do.
Brian Big Board Rank: 7
Zach Big Board Rank: 11
8. San Antonio Spurs: Devin Carter/Providence
Zach: Devin Carter is one of my favorite players in this class and it’s hard to find a team he wouldn’t really fit with. He’s a tenacious defender and all-around breakout star with a lot more upside than he’s getting credit for. With the addition of a full-time wing starter in Risacher, adding a guard is the next biggest need for San Antonio and Carter may be a potential piece of the future to pair with Wemby. He’s a Gregg Popvich type of guy and has the two-way potential to be a cornerstone of the future.
Brian Big Board Rank: 15
Zach Big Board Rank: 8
9. Memphis Grizzlies: Ron Holland/G League Ignite
Zach: I’m letting Brian take the reins for Utah’s pick, so he gave me Memphis’ pick in return. I expect Memphis to shop this pick pretty hard, but in the event that they keep it, Ron Holland seems like a very obvious choice if they aim to draft for the best player available. It’s been recently reported that there’s a chance Holland falls out of the lottery
Brian Big Board Rank: 8
Zach Big Board Rank: 4
10. Utah Jazz: Carlton Carrington/Pittsburgh
Brian: This might be seen as a reach by many, but there’s a few reasons why I went Carrington here. Ainge has had success developing some guys with some questionable shot selection. Two of them were the two #3 overall picks on the Celtics. Carrington’s buzz has been quiet recently, but still too quiet. He’s starting to creep up into the Jazz range on mocks. Ainge has had no problem going against consensus if needed. Carrington has positional size, is an underrated passer, and nearly led a fine team into the NCAA tournament. I think Keyonte and Carrington could play together. The Jazz have lacked good scorers in recent years, and Carrington could be that.
Brian Big Board Rank: 4
Zach Big Board Rank: 15
11. Charlotte Hornets (via CHI): Dalton Knecht/Tennessee
Brian: The Hornets move back and get 11 and 23 from 6. Here, I have the Hornets taking Dalton Knecht. Now, I don’t love Knecht, but they need shooting. Given that he’s a late bloomer, he wasn’t in great basketball programs until this season, so there could be more upside there. I’m worried about the defense, but getting shooting matters. I think Knecht could be like Malik Beasley if all else fails, but that has value on a team like Charlotte who needs shooting. Hopefully this new front office is better and we don’t have the 4th straight misstep at 11 for Charlotte (Monk, SGA Trade, Bouknight). If Dalton Knecht hits, having LaMelo and Miller as their main core with surrounding pieces like Knecht around them would be interesting.
Brian Big Board Rank: 17
Zach Big Board Rank: 12
12. Oklahoma City Thunder: DaRon Holmes II/Dayton
Zach: There’s a ton of different moves the Thunder could make in this draft. Would they want to aim for Cody Williams to pair up with his brother Jalen? Would they consider taking the potential highest upside with someone like Nikola Topic even though they don’t “need” another guard? How about a shotmaker like Jared McCain? Dayton big man DaRon Holmes II has been heavily trending upward among many viewing him as the third best big of the class after Sarr and Clingan, so much so that there’s now speculation that the Thunder gave him a promise. Given how their playoff run ended and the clear weaknesses shown there, Holmes feels like such a strong fit in their big rotation to play both with and without Chet Holmgren next to him. Holmes is a strong rebounder, defender and has shown some intriguing upside to shoot 3s.
Brian Big Board Rank: 22
Zach Big Board Rank: 19
13. Washington Wizards (via Sacramento Kings): Nikola Topic/KKCZ (Serbia)
Sacramento Kings receive: Kyle Kuzma
Washington Wizards receive: 13th overall pick (via SAC), 2025 2nd (via POR), Harrison Barnes
Brian: We have another trade as the Washington Wizards make their move for another lottery pick. The Wizards swoop in and take a falling Nikola Topic. Yes, they already have Castle. Doesn’t mean they can’t play together. This is a big swing for Washington and if it hits, could be the passing wizard that helps lead this team back to relevancy. The Sacramento Kings do this deal to try and go win now. The Wizards take on Harrison Barnes as a vet that could help some of the young guys develop good habits. The Wizards also get a good value second round pick in order to complete the trade.
Brian Big Board Rank: 10
Zach Big Board Rank: 9
14. Portland Trail Blazers: Tidjane Salaun/Cholet (France)
Zach: Salaun makes it back to the Trail Blazers at 14, a team heavily speculated to covet him and his potentially huge upside. The bit of shooting and 6 '10 " size is impressive as Salaun develops more quality shotmaking with a frontcourt rotation looking to support an already hefty backcourt of Anfernee Simons, Scoot Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe. Further development of his shooting and turning him into a very fluid defender will be a great start to establishing him as a long-term piece. It’ll take some time, but the potential is there to be an excellent player.
Brian Big Board Rank: 19
Zach Big Board Rank: 25
15. Miami Heat: Jared McCain/Duke
Brian: Jared McCain would be a new flavor in “Heat Culture.” If Tyler Herro ends up getting moved due to salary issues, Jared McCain could step into his role. They play similarly in a sense but in different body types. McCain could develop into a star in the right situation and Miami could be that fit.
Brian Big Board Rank: 5
Zach Big Board Rank: 16
16. Philadelphia 76ers: Tyler Smith/G League Ignite
Zach: I’d be very willing to bet that Daryl Morey will trade this pick just given how much money they can take in to land a possible third star with Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. Still, just to make the case here, the only players currently locked into this next season on paper are Embiid, Paul Reed and Ricky Council IV. I don’t think it would be the worst idea to see what kind of cheap piece you can add if you have to pony up for a big fish like Paul George along with a Maxey extension to the tune of $80+ million in total. I like Tyler Smith a lot for the 76ers as a 4 who can play next to Joel Embiid and has a lot of all-around skills, especially if his shooting is legitimate early on. Smith’s floor is interesting as someone who could be an immediate role player on basically any team in the NBA and I think he checks a lot of boxes if Philly does take this pick. I’m not counting on it, though.
Brian Big Board Rank: 20
Zach Big Board Rank: 13
17. Los Angeles Lakers: Jaylon Tyson/California
Brian: This might be a little bit higher than consensus but I don’t care. Jaylon Tyson is a 3nD wing that has shown in his collegiate career that he can score, have the ball in his hands, and defend. It hasn’t been in the same season, but Tyson’s fit with the Lakers is great. He’ll be a help to the bench of the Lakers that is badly needed due to depth issues
Brian Big Board Rank: 23
Zach Big Board Rank: 23
18. Orlando Magic: Tristan Da Silva/Colorado
Zach: Da Silva is getting some major pre-draft love from this entire range of teams. I wouldn’t be surprised if he went as high as 12th overall to the Thunder given the strong fit, but Draft Day is always full of surprises. He drops down to the Orlando Magic, a fit I really love for their rotation as a key contributor who’s ready to earn his minutes and fill a lot of steady frontcourt needs next to Paolo Banchero, especially as someone with a shooting stroke.
Brian Big Board Rank: 25
Zach Big Board Rank: 18
19. Toronto Raptors: Robert Dillingham/Kentucky
Brian: Now, this is not a Masai pick. I understand that. However, his fit with Scottie Barnes and this Raptors team is great. He’ll be a microwave scorer off the bench early on and if he’s good enough, could make Immanuel Quickley expendable in a few years. The defense needs to improve, but the Raptors are going to need to take a swing.
Brian Big Board Rank: 12
Zach Big Board Rank: 7
20. Cleveland Cavaliers: Ja’Kobe Walter, Baylor
Zach: I’ll be honest: if this range actually plays out how it does in our mock, I’m not going to be too pleased not getting any of my top Cavs picks in Tyler Smith, Jaylon Tyson or Tristan Da Silva. Such is the draft. Still, I think Ja’Kobe Walter is a solid get with some high potential despite fading out of lottery conversations for a big part of his freshman season. He’s a good shooter for a team that could do more with high-upside guys as a backup 2-3 when it’s time to move on from Caris LeVert. If he can improve defensively to where he should’ve been based on where he was before Baylor, I really like it.
Brian Big Board Rank: 27
Zach Big Board Rank: 22
21. New Orleans Pelicans: Kel’el Ware/Indiana
Brian: I have been a big skeptic of Kel’el Ware and rightfully so. That being said, I have become more comfortable with his floor, and everything coming out on him has been positive. If the motor concerns aren’t as big of an issue, I would have felt more comfortable having Kel’el Ware in the first round. Now, the fit with the Pelicans is very interesting. The Pelicans have been noted to need a stretch 5 like a Myles Turner. Kel’el Ware might be the best shot a Myles Turner type player that the Pelicans can possibly attain, whether draft or free agency. If I was them, I would still try a center or two because not all rookies are ready, but Kel’el Ware might be ready.
Brian Big Board Rank: 16
Zach Big Board Rank: 17
22. Phoenix Suns: Tyler Kolek/Marquette
Zach: In most cases, I would say this pick is going to belong to someone else. Believe me, I want to get a trade in here as all of us NBA fans and myself are trying to figure out how the very broken Suns are going to dig their way out of this financial mess they’re in. It’s hard to find even a three-team framework to get through at the moment considering how little flexibility they have with Bradley Beal’s all-time bad contract, very few liquid assets and a tax apron that puts very heavy stipulations on moving players. All that being said, I’ll make it easy for Brian and I and address a key need at point guard on a cheap deal. I think Tyler Kolek checks a lot of boxes for this team as a true pass-first player with an elite feel for the game, even if he has some real concerns about his size and ability to finish at the next level. Among who’s left, I feel relatively confident that Kolek won’t sink if he’s asked to swim sooner than later.
Brian Big Board Rank: 29
Zach Big Board Rank: 27
23. Charlotte Hornets (via Milwaukee Bucks, via Chicago Bulls): Isaiah Collier/USC
Brian: The Hornets take advantage of a falling Isaiah Collier here, making the trade down a lot more interesting. Getting Dalton Knecht as an older player and Collier as the upside swing. The Hornets have desperately needed a backup point guard for a while. The Hornets had to sign Ish Smith because they didn’t have a backup. Vasilije Micic is a long term point guard for the Hornets, but Collier could develop into that. Micic could help Collier develop his passing and try to help him restrict the turnovers. Collier probably will not be ready to play a lot in his rookie season, but by year 2 or year 3, he could be in the rotation and maybe even starting.
Brian Big Board Rank: 13
Zach Big Board Rank: 14
24. New York Knicks: Zach Edey/Purdue
Zach: I think Brian and I both expect that the Knicks are going to be active in trade discussions in the coming weeks. If they don’t trade both of their picks, they have some strong options that can bolster their depth in a major way. I think their first pick will be Zach Edey, the 7’4” behemoth out of Purdue that’s been the best player in college basketball for the last two seasons. I have my share of questions about how Edey can translate as an NBA player, but with the danger of losing Isaiah Hartenstein in free agency and Mitchell Robinson’s injury woes over the years, having someone they can give plug-and-play minutes now is key. I think getting to play both Robinson and Edey in short bursts of minutes could be very beneficial for the balance of their acumen.
Brian Big Board Rank: 21
Zach Big Board Rank: 31
25. Memphis Grizzlies: Kyle Filipowski/Duke
Trade:
Memphis: 25th overall pick (via NYK)
New York: 32nd overall pick (via UTA), 2025 2nd (via HOU or OKC), 2026 2nd (via LAC)
Utah: 38th overall pick (via MEM), 39th overall pick (via NYK)
Brian: Zach Kleiman is known for moving up in the draft to get a guy that he likes. In this mock, Kyle Filipowski is falling, so Memphis moves up and gets him. He fits well for what they need and could break into a rotation at some point down the line when they are more restricted with the cap space. New York does this to move down and get additional picks. Utah does this to take a chance on an international stash with one pick, and take the guy they want with the next pick.
Brian Big Board Rank: 26
Zach Big Board Rank: 21
26. Washington Wizards: Yves Missi/Baylor
Zach: Our draft has been getting interesting in the big man department. It could easily be feast or famine in terms of how quickly they go past Sarr and Clingan and part of me would be surprised if Missi made it this far down. Either way, the Wizards will be thrilled to find a potential true center of the future here. Missi is a raw but very enticing prospect with the physical traits they’ll love as a rebuilder. I think he’s also a great fit with Coulibaly and Avdija in the starting unit and could work well next to a floor stretcher like Tristan Vukcevic.
Brian Big Board Rank: 28
Zach Big Board Rank: 24
27. Minnesota Timberwolves: Baylor Scheierman/Creighton
Brian: I’m feeling better and better about the floor of Baylor Scheierman. I do not like older players above 23 in general. However, Scheierman has really grown on me, and the fact that he played as well as he did at the combine is very interesting. He’s been doing great in workouts from everything that has been coming out. Baylor might be here at 27 on draft night, but I actually think there’s a better chance he’s not here. However, for Minnesota, they get a shooter, something that they really need. He can play make and if they feel confident in it, he could run some backup PG with size. You wouldn’t be betting on it, but it’s a possibility.
Brian Big Board Rank: 24
Zach Big Board Rank: 43
28. Denver Nuggets: Johnny Furphy/Kansas
Zach: I’m pretty amazed we made it this far without Furphy off the board. He’s been my top ranked player available for a bit now as someone I view having late/post lottery potential in terms of upside, but I would venture to guess NBA front offices may disagree. Calvin Booth is one to take his shots on the guys he likes, and even though this might go against his usual approach with older players in the last two seasons (Christian Braun, Julian Strawther, Jalen Pickett and Hunter Tyson), Furphy could be a crucial puzzle piece to tune up Denver’s wing situation if Kentavious Caldwell-Pope signs elsewhere in free agency. Furphy is a big wing with strong shooting and his upside is some of the best you’ll find in this range, even if he’ll need time to earn his stripes in a Michael Malone rotation.
Brian Big Board Rank: 14
Zach Big Board Rank: 20
29. Utah Jazz: Pacome Dadiet/Ratiopharm Ulm
Brian: Danny Ainge gets his chance to draft his raw wing with good size. I really like Dadiet, I think his floor is pretty underrated, his scoring ability is very good for a young age, but the defense needs to improve. The Jazz pride themselves on defense, and if he develops, he could be a real impact player.
Brian Big Board Rank: 18
Zach Big Board Rank: 28
30. Boston Celtics: Ryan Dunn/Virginia
Zach: We’ll close out the first round with the new reigning champion Boston Celtics. What are you supposed to give a team that’s this absurdly deep and well-rounded in their starting unit? Well, how about making an already elite defense even more elite? Ryan Dunn is already a top-tier defender as a sophomore that can guard 1-4 with no problems. This is the type of guy a sicko like Joe Mazzulla is going to love and I think Dunn has the floor to possibly contribute early and in small minutes if needed (even if he very, very likely won’t need to yet). The biggest issue is that he’s just not much of an offensive player, as he can’t shoot and will need some very serious tutoring on his 3s and free throws. Still, for a team like the Celtics that have a plethora of talent and complementary depth, they can take their time developing Dunn and eventually integrate him as a strong rotation player that fits their defensive identity to a T.
Brian Big Board Rank: 43
Zach Big Board Rank: 29
Round 2
In Round 2, we’re going to spice things up with an added financial factor of navigating contracts. The first round is easy for us, based on the 4-year rookie scale standard for all picks. However, with last season’s new Collective Bargaining Agreement, cheap deals on impact players are becoming a must for contenders to stay in good financial standing for continued growth and retention while staying under the top apron and luxury tax. In our second round, along with our picks, we’re going to try predicting contracts for each pick.
31. Toronto Raptors: Kyshawn George/Miami
Brian: Someone will fall on draft night and the Raptors are here to take advantage of Kyshawn George falling out of the first round. He’s a very polarizing prospect that could go as high as the lottery or even out of the first round on some boards. He might go higher than this in real life, but he would be someone I wouldn’t be surprised to fall. Masai likes length and has already taken someone like Delano Banton way earlier than what consensus had him and put him on a guaranteed contract. While they aren’t that similar apart from their looks, Kyshawn is more lower usage and could provide value for the Raptors.
Contract: 3 Year/6M with 2 Years Fully Guaranteed with a Team Option on Year 3
Brian Big Board Rank: 34
Zach Big Board Rank: 26
32. New York Knicks: (via DET, UTA): Kevin McCullar Jr./Kansas
Zach: Following Brian’s mock trade, we see Leon Rose snatch up a few extra picks on the back end while only moving down seven spots. They’ll have a solid veteran fall into their lap here with Kevin McCullar Jr.,
Contract: 3 years/$6 million with a team option in year 3 (Y1 and Y2 fully guaranteed)
Brian Big Board Rank: 38
Zach Big Board Rank: 34
33. Milwaukee Bucks: Jonathan Mogbo/San Francisco
Brian: Milwaukee needs to get more athletic with their front court. Brook Lopez won’t be around for forever and so getting Jonathan Mogbo makes some sense. He doesn’t exactly answer the spacing problem, but he could be a backup center for the Bucks that's on a cheap deal.
Contract: 3 Year/5M with Year 2 Partially Guaranteed and Team Option on Year 3
Brian Big Board Rank: 45
Zach Big Board Rank: 33
34. Portland Trail Blazers: Nikola Djurisic/MEGA MIS (2004)
Zach: Djurisic quickly rose up the ranks between his play at the end of Mega MIS’s season and his strong Combine showings. His size and playmaking as a wing is enticing, especially if Portland can help him establish a consistent 3-point shot pretty quickly. They’ll spend plenty of time developing him and hopefully finding a key piece of the future.
Contract: 4-year, $7.2 million (with a 4th year club option)
Brian Big Board Rank: 50
Zach Big Board Rank: 36
35. San Antonio Spurs: Bobi Klintman/Cairns
Brian: Putting spacing and good cutting around Wemby is a must. Bobi Klintman makes sense here and could potentially do both at a really good level. At this point in the draft, it makes some sense to swing on Klintman.
Contract: 3 Year/6 Million deal with a team option on the 3rd year.
Brian Big Board Rank: 35
Zach Big Board Rank: 35
36. Indiana Pacers: Ulrich Chomche/NBA Academy Africa
Zach: The Pacers had an excellent season between the major jump Tyrese Haliburton took and trading for/extending Pascal Siakam that took them to the Eastern Conference Finals. Because of that and their strong roster, there’s not a strong need for more players who can compete now. Ulrich Chomche possesses some of the highest upside we’ve seen in this range as a super long and mobile big with strong defense for how raw he is. He’s going to need a few years of development, but the combination of his floor-stretching shooting and standout interior defense is something any winning team would love to see pan out.
Contract: 3-year/$5.2 million (with a team option on the third year
Brian Big Board Rank: 47
Zach Big Board Rank: 32
37. Minnesota Timberwolves: Ajay Mitchell/UC Santa Barbara
Zach: Ajay Mitchell has been one of my guys throughout the entire draft cycle, and watching him play, it’s easy to see why people think so highly of him. He’s a dynamic and efficient scorer for a combo guard, and he can already rebound, create and pass the rock very effectively. This season, he’s also made very notable progress as a shooter, with 1+ makes for the first time in his career and connecting on 39.3% of his 2.9 attempts per game. If he can just continue developing as a defender and hitting his 3s consistently, there’s a serious route to being a potential long-term piece in Minnesota. On tape, Mitchell just reminds me so much of guys like Brandin Podziemski and Jalen Brunson, and having a winning culture and a veteran teammate like Mike Conley won’t hurt his potential either. Love, love, love the possibility of this connection. I think it’s also worth noting that the Timberwolves have given both of their last two second rounders, Josh Minott (2022) and Leonard Miller (2023), 4-year deals. I would imagine Mitchell gets about the same deal and that level of confidence in their guys should be a hopeful sign.
Contract: 4-year, $7.2 million contract (with a 4th year club option)
Brian Big Board Rank: 31
Zach Big Board Rank: 30
38. Utah Jazz (via NYK): AJ Johnson/Illawara
Brian: Here the Jazz take a project in AJ Johnson. He won’t play at all in the short term, but he could be a very interesting flier that could hit in a big way.
Contract: 3 Year/5M with a team option on the 3rd year
Brian Big Board Rank: 37
Zach Big Board Rank: 47
39. Utah Jazz (via MEM): Melvin Ajinca/Saint Quinten
Brian: Here the Jazz take a stash with Melvin Ajinca. He has decent size and can shoot. He’ll be able to continue developing overseas and could eventually come over and make an impact when the Jazz are good again.
Contract: Stash
Brian Big Board Rank: 52
Zach Big Board Rank: 50
40. Detroit Pistons (via POR): Justin Edwards/Kentucky
Zach: After trading down to 7th overall and selecting Dalton Knecht, I’m thinking the Pistons’ best practice is doubling up on shooting, and lucky for them, a 3&D wing who was once touted as a top 10 prospect in the country just a year ago will be available here. Justin Edwards didn’t have even close to the season many hoped for and left a pretty sour taste in my mouth recently with a very unimpressive Combine showing, but there are things to like about him with his shooting, size and defensive versatility. I think it’s clear that the upside is never going to be that of a star or even close to it, but he has a lot of pieces of a quality role player for a team to put together. Edwards will get to work with the best shooting mentor in the world with Fred Vinson and, considering how much talent Detroit is going to need, I like this for a low-risk, medium-reward pick.
Contract: Two-way deal
Brian Big Board Rank: 49
Zach Big Board Rank: 44
41. Philadelphia 76ers: TJ Shannon/Illinois
Brian: This would be a worthwhile gamble for the 76ers. They had success with Ricky Council last season and TJ is a better all around player than Ricky. Shannon might be able to come in and play in the rotation depending on how Morey structures the new team.
Contract: 2 Year/3M with a team option at the end
Brian Big Board Rank: 33
Zach Big Board Rank: 40
42. Charlotte Hornets: Isaiah Crawford/Louisiana Tech
Zach: Charlotte may have done well in the first round with moving down for two solid additions in Cody Williams and Isaiah Collier, but they’re far from done addressing some key needs. One big thing will be adding stronger depth, something they had an appalling lack of last season with being forced to give a gross amount of minutes to guys like Bryce McGowens, JT Thor, Ish Smith, Leaky Black, Nathan Mensah and plenty of others. Isaiah Crawford should be a perfect addition to their bench as a big wing with a 7’1” wingspan who can defend at a high level and is a proven shooter, with 2 seasons of shooting over 40% from 3. He’s an ideal two-way piece with the motor and skillset to earn minutes early. If he can prove that his abilities translate to the NBA from a smaller school and that he can stay healthy following his two ACL surgeries in the last 5 years, he could be a potential steal of this draft.
Contract: Two-way deal
Brian Big Board Rank: 40
Zach Big Board Rank: 39
43. Miami Heat: Keshad Johnson/Arizona
Brian: Keshad Johnson has a lot of tools that the Heat could mold into a good player. Initially, he could be on a two way, but get converted if he plays his way into it. Haywood Highsmith won’t be in Miami for forever, Keshad can easily take that role.
Contract: Two-way deal
Brian Big Board Rank: 53
Zach Big Board Rank: 59
44. Houston Rockets: Adem Bona/UCLA
Zach: Acquiring Steven Adams means the Rockets now have a solidified backup big with a defensive skill set to back up Alperen Sengun, but Adams isn’t getting any younger or healthier after some red flags regarding his ongoing knee injury saga. Here, the Rockets add a player they can develop for later with Bona.
Contract: Two-way deal
Brian Big Board Rank: 32
Zach Big Board Rank: 40
45. Sacramento Kings: Jaylen Wells/Washington State
Brian: Here the Kings get one of their hometown guys in Jaylen Wells. He fits with what they would want to do, has good size, and could develop into a guy that makes the rotation at some point.
Contract: Two-Way Deal
Brian Big Board Rank: 41
Zach Big Board Rank: 56
46. Los Angeles Clippers: Dillon Jones/Weber State
Zach: It’s almost a wash to project much of anything for Clippers rookies at this point. Ty Lue hasn’t really cared much for them despite my excitement for Kobe Brown last season. Either way, I think there’s some serious talent for them to try out here, and one that stands out in a big way is Dillon Jones, arguably the best mid-major player in the country this past season. Jones is a bit of a weird tweener with a lot of funky skills as a heavy-usage, on-ball forward, built like a brick house, with guard skills that’s also underwhelming as a shooter. Bit of a mouthful, no? All that being said, the guy can flat out ball, and I think he has the juice to be a real rotation player on a good team. I just hope it actually happens on this team.
Contract: Two-way deal
Brian Big Board Rank: 55
Zach Big Board Rank: 37
47. Los Angeles Lakers: Bronny James/USC
Brian: The Magic have historically sold their second round picks. The Lakers have historically bought picks in the second round. Last time they bought a pick from the Magic, it was to go snab Talen Horton-Tucker in 2019. Now, the Lakers can get the son of the King.
Trade:
LA Lakers: 47th overall pick
Orlando: Cash Considerations
Brian: The Lakers move up to get Bronny and sign him on the contract that they want. I highly doubt he plays, but Klutch has power and got Bronny his money here. (Even though he probably would have made more money staying in school.)
Contract: 2 Year/Minimum
Brian Big Board Rank: 69
Zach Big Board Rank: 61
48. San Antonio Spurs: PJ Hall/Clemson
Zach: The Zach Collins fit with Wemby has looked pretty unremarkable to date and I would guess they’ll eventually plan to part ways next summer when Collins’ contract is up. Even still, the Spurs could still do with someone who can stretch the floor and play next to Wemby and I like PJ Hall finding his way into that role. He’s been a solid 3-year starting big for Clemson who’s proven to be a solid scorer that can shoot the 3. He didn’t hit them well this season, as he only shot 31.5% on his 4.6 attempts, but taking more from last season’s near 40% clip means he’s comfortable taking them. I see a little bit of Naz Reid in Hall, especially if he can improve as a defender. He’s not very athletic, but his mobility and versatility at his size is something that can be a weapon on this mismatch-y team next to Wemby.
Contract: Two-way deal
Brian Big Board Rank: 57
Zach Big Board Rank: 38
49. Indiana Pacers: Enrique Freeman/Akron
Brian: Enrique Freeman could be the next Alize Johnson for the Pacers, but better! Enrique’s name has been buzzing and he could go much higher than this. For the Pacers to get him, they promise him a guaranteed contract in order to get him at 49.
Contract: 2 Year/4M with a Team Option
Brian Big Board Rank: 39
Zach Big Board Rank: 54
50. Indiana Pacers: Jalen Bridges/Baylor
Zach: Not gonna lie, of all the teams Brian and I have drafted for, I think the Pacers easily have my favorite second round hauls in terms of value. Hitting on a potentially high-upside shooting big in Ulrich Chomche is great, and so is getting a big riser and hustle player in Enrique Freeman, but getting both and turning around and landing one of the best defensive wings in the draft at FIFTY? Sheesh. Bridges is someone I could very easily see going in the very late 1st-early 2nd round range if things break right for him. The shooting took a leap this season and he seemed to just get better in every way we hoped he would. He looks the part of an NBA rotation player if he can step up when he gets the opportunities.
Contract: Two-way deal
Brian Big Board Rank: 30
Zach Big Board Rank: 48
51. Washington Wizards (via Phoenix Suns): Trentyn Flowers/Adelaide
Brian: The Wizards here take Trentyn Flowers as a flier. They convince him to go overseas and if he plays well, will get a contract to come over at the end of the season similar to what happened to Tristan Vukcevic this season.
Contract: Stash
Brian Big Board Rank: 42
Zach Big Board Rank: 57
52. Golden State Warriors: KJ Simpson/Colorado
Zach: The Warriors’ cap situation isn’t pretty and the dynasty of old is fading. Klay Thompson’s departure is looking like a sure thing. However, their front office had a giant hit on a long-term starter with Trayce Jackson-Davis with the 57th overall pick and I wouldn’t be surprised to find some good value again. This time, they’ll hope to find another impact player with Colorado’s KJ Simpson,
Contract: Two-way deal
Brian Big Board Rank: 56
Zach Big Board Rank: 42
53. Portland Trail Blazers (via DET): Cam Christie/Minnesota
Brian: Portland gives Cam Christie a guaranteed contract, so while they move down, it doesn’t matter too much to them as Christie will end up in Portland anyway. He’s young and worth some development.
Contract: 2 Year/4M with 2nd year partially guaranteed
Brian Big Board Rank: 43
Zach Big Board Rank: 49
54. Boston Celtics: Trey Alexander/Creighton
Zach: Trey Alexander may not ever have high-level upside in my book, but he is very fundamentally sound and functional as a lead guard that Boston can keep fresh in the G League. He’s a smooth operator with the ball in his hands, he can shoot and he’s long enough (6’10.5” wingspan) to play really effective and switchable defense. I love the fliers in this range.
Contract: Two-way deal
Brian Big Board Rank: 36
Zach Big Board Rank: 45
55. Los Angeles Lakers: Juan Nunez/Barcelona
Brian: The Lakers take a stash here in Juan Nunez. Juan Nunez can really pass the ball and has good size. He could eventually come over if he learns to shoot or defend, but it's a safe pick here for the Lakers.
Contract: Stash
Brian Big Board Rank: 67
Zach Big Board Rank: 46
56. Denver Nuggets: Oso Ighodaro/Marquette
Zach: Is it very likely that Oso Ighodaro makes it all the way down into the mid-late 50s range? I would guess it’s not; he’s firmly been in my 40s range for much of the draft cycle and he’s got some strong feel for a more traditional type of big. Crazier things have happened, and here, he falls to Denver at 56, who will be thrilled to have a hopeful backup big they can try out. Finding that guy behind Nikola Jokic has been a challenge despite some admirable moments from journeyman DeAndre Jordan and Zeke Nnaji, but what sets Ighodaro apart is his strengths as a rim protector and runner who can fill minutes very well in a reserve role. This would be one of the absolute best case scenarios for Denver in this range to find someone built for a simple role that could exceed expectations in it.
Contract: Two-way deal
Brian Big Board Rank: 46
Zach Big Board Rank: 41
57. Memphis Grizzlies: Armel Traore/Blois
Brian: The Grizzlies add another stash here with Armel Traore. He’s an athletic wing that can defend, has good size and with a bit more time, could end up being a good rotation player. The Grizzlies won’t need to bring him over making this appealing.
Contract: Stash
Brian Big Board Rank: 65
Zach Big Board Rank: 82
58. Dallas Mavericks: Tristen Newton/UCONN
Zach: Let’s round this draft out with a strong final pick. Dallas will be coming off a tough 2024 Finals loss in 5 games to the Boston Celtics, and while I have confidence that they can run it back as a contender, adding some potential depth pieces with the intention of
Contract: Two-way deal
Brian Big Board Rank: 54
Zach Big Board Rank: 53
Undrafted Free Agents
Finally, we’ll conclude with each of us picking (five?) players from the 2024 NBA Draft pool who didn’t make our top 58 and tell you why we believe they’re worthy of being on an NBA roster this summer. Whether that’s on a two way contract or not.
59. Cam Spencer/UCONN
Brian: Let’s talk about one of the most competitive players in the draft. Cam Spencer is not afraid to let his opponents know they screwed up, or even trash talk the crowd. An elite shooter and can do it in a lot of ways. He’s got a work ethic you want to bet on and can run some PG. Only issue is he’s 24. Now, depending where he ends up, you might just know immediately that teams messed up. (I’m looking at you Miami.)
60. Harrison Ingram/UNC
Zach: There’s a very real world where Ingram can be a good rotation piece. He can hit 3s and can play a connective role as a good passer. I think he’s certainly talented enough and his pros should deem him worthy of a possible draft spot, but the biggest key is finding consistency as a finisher at the rim. Just under 50% at the rim at 6’7” is brutal and he’ll need to prove himself as an all-around scorer to stick. Nonetheless, I think there’s definite talent here and I think he’ll end up as a coveted UDFA.
61. Malevy Leons/Bradley
Brian: Malevy Leons is a wing that played in the Missouri Valley Conference. He’s a long defensive wing that shoots the ball well from 3. Now, I’m not saying he’s going to be this player, but his player shape with his numbers, is very similar to what Robert Covington was doing at Tennessee State. Leons is not the star Covington was, but the makings of a good player are there.
62. Jamal Shead/Houston
Zach: These days, it’s hard to be an undersized guard if you’re not a high-level scorer or really good at a specific role/element of the game. It gets even harder when you’re an undersized guard who also isn’t a proven shooter after 4 years of college and 3 of those in a key starting role. However, I think Jamal Shead has a chance of being an impactful UDFA as a strong and intense defender who can hold his own against players taller than him. He also has a great passing feel as Houston’s lead point guard that’s comfortable in a pass-first mode, but can drive and finish well at the rim. It’s going to be tough for Shead, but there’s a world where he can have a Jose Alvarado-like impact for a team in a rotation role.
63. Quinten Post/Boston College
Brian: An easy way to describe Quinten Post is to say he’s a guard in a big man’s body. He can pass the ball really well and hit 3’s. He struggles defensively but he’s effective. He was invited to the NBA Draft Combine which shows NBA interest. He's a definite target on a two way contract.
64. N’Faly Dante/Oregon
Zach: Dante is never going to give you much on the offensive end, but boy, he can be a solid and tenacious defender and rim protector at the next level. At 6’11” with a 7' 6” wingspan, he’s got the imposing size and body to play tough in the paint and his mobility is quite good for his size. He’ll need to figure things out more on offense to stand a chance at a full-time role at any point, but I think the defense is enough to warrant plenty of interest.
65. Quinn Ellis/Dolomiti
Brian: Quinn Ellis hasn’t gotten a lot of buzz throughout most of the cycle but he’s been working out with teams and gotten good feedback. He’s a British guard that has been playing in Italy. I know Killian Hayes flamed out, but Ellis plays similar to him. Ellis has got good size and good instincts. How much of Killian’s downfall was due to Detroit and how much of it was him? I think it's worth taking a flier. Also hand up, I had Killian Hayes at 2 in 2020.
66. Judah Mintz/Syracuse
Zach: Mintz’s follow-up season from a freshman campaign that started generating NBA interest went well for him, but his ability as an NBA player offers a ton of questions at the moment. He really excels with his tough finishing and touch at the rim that helps generate loads of free throws and has some sound offensive tools (namely his handle, tempo and all-around bag), but in general, his defense and 3-point shooting leave a ton to be desired. He’s going to need work into that shot to make it happen but someone will 100% take a shot on the talent to see what emerges.
67. Reece Beekman/Virginia
Brian: Reece Beekman is a defensive guard that struggled offensively this season. However, Virginia’s system limits players offensively, so Beekman could have more under the surface than he got to show at Virginia. I like his size and length. I think he’s worth a two way flier and should be a priority to teams. He might end up getting drafted as well.
68. Anton Watson/Gonzaga
Zach: Watson is fascinating as a connective wing who can do a lot in a specific role, but like some of these other names, he’s lacking in the shooting department. Still, the jack-of-all-trades style of player who can play the 3 and 4 is a good player to have these days and one with the ball skills and defense that Watson has can be very helpful. There’s zero doubt in my mind that Watson will quickly secure a two-way deal.
69. David Jones/Memphis
Brian: David Jones is a wing that has bounced around a bit in college but had a great season in Memphis this season. Now he’s an interesting case because Jones checks a lot of the boxes of a player that tends to scale up well. High steal and rebound rates. Really high. However, he also does some things that don’t impact winning. Like being uninvolved in a play if it isn’t run for him and possible maturity issues. If he can control himself and work hard, Jones could be a potential impact wing on the next level.
70. Pelle Larsson/Arizona
Zach: What makes Larsson different from a player like Watson or others is that he’s truly the jack-of-all-trades with the ability to shoot the rock. He found a good level of success playing efficiently in a low-usage role in Arizona that asked a lot of him. He’s comfortable doing the dirty work on the court, and even though he’s not a sexy or very intriguing pick with nothing doing at a high level, he absolutely possesses the aptitude for a role player type of career.
Other Two-Way Contract Players
Ariel Hukporti/Melbourne
Jaylin Williams/Auburn
Boogie Ellis/USC
Emanuel Miller/TCU
Tristan Enaruna/Cleveland State
Isaac Jones/Washington State
Bryson Warren/Sioux Falls
KJ Jones/Emmanuel College
Zyon Pullin/Florida
Jaedon LeDee/San Diego State
Blake Hinson/Pittsburgh
Daniss Jenkins/St. John’s
Riley Minix/Morehead State
Spencer Jones/Stanford
I Just wanted to highlight these guys as potential guys that are likely to get two way contracts. Just some other guys to note.
We also want to end by saying Thank You to all readers! We’ve grown a lot over this past year with more on the way! Dynasty Draft Season is right around the corner and dynasty stock will be more sure after the draft! Enjoy the Draft!