Bleacher Report: Latest two-round mock draft full of unpredictability
UConn Huskies center Donovan Clingan (32) is a projected Lottery pick.
Editor’s Note: Find more of Jonathan Wasserman’s coverage of the 2024 Draft on Bleacher Report or to read this article on BleacherReport.com, click here.
(B/R) — While the list of No. 1 overall candidates for the 2024 NBA draft remains the same, there still isn’t a consensus.
Meanwhile, new and breakout prospects have entered the discussion with roughly a month to go in conference play.
This class is also loaded with international names coming from pro leagues overseas as well as from college basketball.
As of now, there is a ton of uncertainty in terms of projections (due to no consensus on rankings) and who’ll even declare. And scouts expect that to result in one of the more unpredictable drafts in recent memory.
1. Detroit Pistons: Alexandre Sarr
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 1
- Team: Perth Wildcats
- Nationality: French
- Position: PF/C
- Size: 7-foot-1, 216 lbs
- Age: 18
- Pro comparison: Jaren Jackson Jr.
Alexandre Sarr’s No. 1 overall pitch got stronger over the weekend after his 18 points and five blocks in just 18.5 minutes against South East Melbourne.
It was his second appearance since returning from a hip injury that cost him a month. Sarr looked spry and energetic, making plays at both ends with his 7-foot-1 size, athleticism, motor and mobility, though it was a drive-and-spin move into a finish that really sparked scouts’ imaginations.
Without an obvious No. 1 prospect in this draft, the Detroit Pistons will presumably put more stock than usual into fit, particularly since a guard or wing may have trouble developing in a rotation featuring Cade Cunningham, Jaden Ivey and Ausar Thompson. Detroit would be able to slide Sarr next to Jalen Duren and let him continue building on the skill flashes that could make him an interchangeable big between the 4 and 5.
2. Washington Wizards: Zaccharie Risacher
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 3
- Team: JL Bourg
- Nationality: French
- Position: SF
- Size: 6-foot-8, 204 lbs
- Age: 18
- Pro comparison: Michael Porter Jr.
Already with a top-five case to end 2023 — built around efficiency and a coveted mix of positional size, athleticism and shooting — Zaccharie Risacher now has hit the 20-point mark in two of his last three games.
He continues to look like one of the surer bets in a perceived weaker class, and the feeling of certainty tied to his 6-foot-8 frame, age and 48.2 percent 3-point stroke will have teams like the Washington Wizards, San Antonio Spurs, Portland Trail Blazers and Toronto Raptors considering him with a top-three or even No. 1 overall pick.
While he hasn’t showcased as much creation or playmaking as you’d want from a wing expected to go that high, he’s also playing a spot-up-heavy role, and last year’s tape from France’s U21 league shows a lot more ball-handling and passing.
3. San Antonio Spurs: Nikola Topić
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 2
- Team: KK Crvena Zvezda
- Nationality: Serbian
- Position: PG
- Size: 6-foot-6, 198 lbs
- Age: 18
- Pro comparison: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
Nikola Topić remains out with a knee injury, though he may have already proved enough for the San Antonio Spurs this early. At 18 years old, he’s second in the Adriatic League in scoring and first in assists, producing with 6-foot-6 positional size, creativity, skill and passing IQ that seem translatable.
He only played two EuroLeague games with Red Star before going down, but he looked mostly comfortable in a facilitator role.
The big questions are how easily he’ll be able to blow by and separate, and whether his shooting will go from capable to reliable. The Spurs may look past those concerns, given his age and the high likelihood that he’ll add needed creativity, rim pressure and playmaking.
4. Charlotte Hornets: Ron Holland
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 6
- Team: G League Ignite
- Nationality: American
- Position: SF
- Size: 6-foot-6, 204 lbs
- Age: 18
- Pro Comparison: Cam Whitmore
Scouts sound split on Ron Holland’s season in the G League, where he’s averaging an impressive 19.0 points while shooting poorly and turning the ball over for a team that’s lost 25 of its 27 games.
The positives clearly outweigh the negatives given his age, unteachable athleticism and the fact that he’s still scoring (relatively) efficiently despite his improvable weaknesses, such as an inconsistent jump shot and decision-making.
Teams figure to put more stock into the flashes. He hit four of six 3-pointers in his last game. The occasional rhythm pull-up or step-back looks fluid. And he’s learning how to slow down on drives with deceleration and footwork.
The poor three-point percentage, assist-to-turnover ratio and analytics would have a greater impact on Holland’s stock if there were other surefire stars in this draft.
5. Portland Trail Blazers: Cody Williams
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 4
- School: Colorado
- Nationality: American
- Position: SF
- Size: 6-foot-8, 190 lbs
- Age: 19
- Pro comparison: Jaden McDaniels
Cody Williams’ efficiency has been the story, particularly since there is still a rawness to his game that suggests there’s room for improvement. Averaging 14.7 points on 65.3 percent true shooting and a low 21.6 percent usage, he’s capitalizing on transition and spot-up threes while picking the right spots to drive past closeouts or as a pick-and-roll ball-handler.
A need to get stronger with the ball while creating is evident, and his lack of pull-up game does raise questions about how his scoring will translate early. But Williams has showcased enough complementary play-finishing and shotmaking, effective slashing and excellent defensive potential for teams to see a safe pick.
6. Toronto Raptors: Rob Dillingham
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 7
- School: Kentucky
- Position: PG/SG
- Nationality: American
- Size: 6-foot-3, 176 lbs
- Age: 18
- Pro Comparison: Kemba Walker
While the Toronto Raptors may view Rob Dillingham as the best prospect available, they could also use some extra creation and shotmaking after the Pascal Siakam trade.
His 3-pointer hasn’t been falling at the same rate it was earlier in the season. And DJ Wagner has inevitably cut into his playmaking. But Dillingham will remain a potential top-10 pick with persuasive ball-handling and shiftiness, shooting versatility and passing flashes for an NBA combo guard.
7. Memphis Grizzlies: Matas Buzelis
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 5
- Team: G League Ignite
- Nationality: American/Lithuanian
- Position: SG/SF
- Size: 6-foot-8, 209 lbs
- Age: 19
- Pro comparison: Franz Wagner
Matas Buzelis has some of the most enticing highlight tape in the draft with his 6-foot-8 size, athleticism at the rim, shotmaking, on-ball defense and fluidity attacking the paint.
The inconsistency and tendency to take a backseat have raised questions about his mentality and ability to impact games with his talent and skill set.
He’s still likely a better shooter than the current numbers suggest. And if that’s the case, it would unlock coveted versatility and the type of big-wing archetype teams often covet.
8. Houston Rockets (via Nets): Ja’Kobe Walter
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 8
- School: Baylor
- Nationality: American
- Position: SG
- Size: 6-foot-5, 195 lbs
- Age: 19
- Pro Comparison: Moses Moody
The Houston Rockets could add another wing in Ja’Kobe Walter, who could have the right frame, length and shotmaking skill to serve as an interchangeable, three-and-D wing.
The lack of creation and playmaking does reduce his margin for error as a shooter. But Walter does have a convincing catch-and-shoot game, a plug-and-play skill for off-ball scoring. And despite not being known for isolation or ball-screen offense, he’s found enough success attacking in straight lines, using runners and drawing fouls to score without needing advanced ball-handling or shiftiness.
9. Atlanta Hawks: Kyle Filipowski
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 9
- School: Duke
- Nationality: American
- Position: PF/C
- Size: 7-foot-0, 248 lbs
- Age: 20
There are too many high-floor and NBA-starter indicators for Kyle Filipowski’s weaknesses to keep teams passing. At 7-foot-0, he’s now at 39.7 percent from three, averaging 9 boards and 3.1 assists. Even a worst-case scenario — which envisions a frontcourt shooting threat, excellent passer and presence on the boards — could justify lottery interest. The flashes of open-floor ball-handling, shot-blocking and foot speed could be bonus value that would surely result in Filipowski turning into one of this draft’s most useful players.
10. Portland Trail Blazers (via Warriors): Yves Missi
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 10
- School: Baylor
- Nationality: Cameroon
- Position: C
- Size: 7-foot-0, 235 lbs
- Age: 19
- Pro comparison: Jalen Duren
Yves Missi’s physical tools and outstanding mobility were on full display during his 25-point eruption against TCU. While he’s still mostly all about finishing and rim protection, he can make plays further from the basket, attacking with his long strides, nimble feet and length.
Regardless, he should have the tools and athletic ability to continue serving as a highly effective roll man, dunker’s spot weapon, offensive rebounder and defensive presence.
11. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Rockets): Donovan Clingan
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 21
- School: Connecticut
- Nationality: American
- Position: C
- Size: 7-foot-2, 280 lbs
- Age: 19
- Pro Comparison: Jakob Poeltl
Donovan Clingan won’t be for every team, but the ones that could use a defensive paint presence may have him highlighted early on their boards. His movement and anticipation at 7-foot-2 and shot-blocking production are strong indicators. As long as the lineup he joins can surround his low post-ups, rolls and dunker’s-spot presence with enough shooting, Clingan has a chance to start and help change a team’s identity with his rim protection and physicality.
12. Chicago Bulls: Reed Sheppard
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 16
- School: Kentucky
- Nationality: American
- Position: SG
- Size: 6-foot-3, 187 lbs
- Age: 19
- Pro comparison: Donte DiVincenzo
NBA teams will know what they’re getting in Reed Sheppard, given the translatability of his elite shooting, passing IQ and defensive instincts. He’s a textbook connector at worst who’ll space the floor and move the ball.
The big question is whether there is more hidden on-ball upside that often gets masked at Kentucky. With Rob Dillingham and DJ Wagner dominating ball-handling duties, we haven’t seen as much creation from Sheppard. While a high floor puts Sheppard into the lottery discussion, the potential for him to be a more useful pick-and-roll scorer and playmaker in the half court could sway top-10 teams to think about a higher ceiling.
13. New Orleans Pelicans (via Lakers): Dalton Knecht
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 13
- School: Tennessee
- Nationality: American
- Position: SF
- Size: 6-foot-6, 204 lbs
- Age: 22
- Pro comparison: Max Strus
History says to be careful with players who will turn 23 by the draft. But teams may have just missed on Dalton Knecht last year at Northern Colorado. His 2023-24 production and percentages at Tennessee are nearly identical. Four consecutive 25-point-plus games against SEC opponents have highlighted Knecht’s pro-like shotmaking, scoring skill and frame.
14. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Jazz): Tidjane Salaun
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 11
- Team: Cholet
- Nationality: French
- Position: PF
- Size: 6-foot-8, 212 lbs
- Age: 18
The bigger scoring outputs and shotmaking displays are becoming more frequent from Tidjane Salaun. Now with at least three 3-pointers in three of Cholet’s last five games, the 6-foot-8 18-year-old continues to strengthen his draft case as a big-wing shooter.
The rest of his game still remains raw, as he’s reliant on transition, spot-up threes and finishes around the basket. The tools, movement and shot create a high floor. Returning top-10 value will call for Salaun to make considerable strides with his face-up and pull-up games.
15. Miami Heat: Isaiah Collier
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 15
- School: USC
- Nationality: American
- Position: PG
- Size: 6-foot-5, 210 lbs
- Age: 19
- Pro comparison: Tyreke Evans
A wrist injury is costing Isaiah Collier valuable time, as concerns over his shooting and decision-making made their way into scouting circles prior to him being ruled out. His positional strength, shiftiness, ball-handling, passing and confidence-driven shotmaking flashes are still persuasive enough for NBA teams to picture a rotational asset. The creation, rim pressure and playmaking remain attractive — just not quite for a starting point guard role.
16. Orlando Magic: Ulrich Chomche
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 14
- Team: NBA Academy Africa
- Nationality: Cameroon
- Position: PF/C
- Size: 6-foot-11, 225 lbs
- Age: 18
Ulrich Chomche is making official visits to colleges, as it remains possible that he plays college basketball and waits until the 2025 draft. But there figures to be strong enough first-round interest if he declares this year, just based on what he’s shown over the past two months at the G League Showcase and Sunrise Prep Showcase.
For a 6-foot-11 big with a 7-foot-4 wingspan, the flashes of shooting, ball-handling and passing create some tempting pathways to and visions of upside.
17. New York Knicks (via Mavericks): Kevin McCullar Jr.
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 17
- School: Kansas
- Nationality: American
- Position: SG/SF
- Size: 6-foot-7, 214 lbs
- Age: 22
- Pro comparison: Bruce Brown
Kevin McCullar Jr.’s offensive versatility and defense point to an easy fit, which could overpower a team’s concerns over his age, shooting and upside. A more reliable shot-maker and threatening playmaker compared to last year, McCullar should be able to play multiple roles with an adaptable game and the tools to guard multiple positions.
18. New Orleans Pelicans: Tyler Smith
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 12
- Team: G League Ignite
- Nationality: American
- Position: PF
- Size: 6-foot-11, 224 lbs
- Age: 19
- Pro comparison: Bobby Portis
At 29 games in, Tyler Smith has been steady enough with his shooting for NBA teams to expect a surefire stretch-4 role player. No projectable off-the-dribble scoring or serious indicators for defensive upside suggest he’ll be more of a supporting piece. But at 6-foot-11, his ability to space the floor, pick-and-pop, and finish plays around the basket could still earn him 20-25 minutes with the right team.
19. Phoenix Suns: Tristan da Silva
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 19
- School: Colorado
- Nationality: German/Brazilian
- Position: SF/PF
- Size: 6-foot-9, 220 lbs
- Age: 22
- Pro comparison: Kyle Kuzma
While age and athletic limitations raise questions about Tristan da Silva’s upside, he has NBA fans for his perceived surefire shooting (at 6-foot-9) and IQ. He also has some useful skill inside the arc, mostly with touch around the post. But NBA teams will realistically just expect to add frontcourt shotmaking/spacing and generally good decision-making at both ends.
20. Toronto Raptors (via Pacers): Devin Carter
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 22
- School: Providence
- Nationality: American
- Position: PG/SG
- Age: 21, Junior
- Size: 6-foot-3, 195 lbs
- Pro comparison: Jose Alvarado
Initially interesting for his pesky defense, unique shot-blocking and hustle plays, Devin Carter is now delivering the type of scoring consistency that’s raising his perceived ceiling. With a archetype and floor similar to that of Miles McBride and Jose Alvarado, the improved creativity and shotmaking now has scouts interested in Carter’s offensive use and trajectory.
21. Atlanta Hawks (via Kings): Ryan Dunn
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 25
- School: Virginia
- Nationality: American
- Position: SF/PF
- Size: 6-foot-8, 216 lbs
- Age: 20
- Pro comparison: Herb Jones
The scouting report on Ryan Dunn seems cut-and-dried, with his defense and explosion for finishing translatable strengths, and his lack of creation and shooting limiting weaknesses that project a low offensive ceiling. He’s going to need the right fit, a team that values his athleticism and defense and can surround him with enough ball-handling and shotmaking.
22. Cleveland Cavaliers: KJ Simpson
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 20
- School: Colorado
- Nationality: American
- Position: Guard
- Size: 6-foot-2, 189 lbs
- Age: 21
Lottery teams may have difficulty looking past KJ Simpson’s underwhelming size/tools. But at some point, one team will put extra stock into his offensive effectiveness now — and less into the physical flaws that successful NBA point guards have recently been overcoming with skill, touch and IQ. Simpson’s shotmaking versatility and accuracy have been persuasive early, while his impressive drives and finishes have highlighted his vertical pop and strong use of his body to create angles.
23. New York Knicks: Bobi Klintman
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 23
- Team: Cairns Taipans
- Nationality: Swedish
- Position: SF/PF
- Age: 20
- Pro comparison: De’Andre Hunter
Bobi Klintman has missed some time lately due to illness and concussion protocols, but regardless of how up and down he is in Australia, there will be first-round interest in a 6-foot-8 forward who’s comfortable from the 3-point line, passing off live dribbles, attacking closeouts and using touch shots on the move. His offensive versatility should create a fit at either forward spot, particularly if he can reach a certain level of consistency with his shooting.
24. Philadelphia 76ers: Ajay Mitchell
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 26
- School: Santa Barbara
- Nationality: Belgian
- Position: PG
- Age: 21, Junior
- Size: 6-foot-5, 190 lbs
- Pro comparison: Jalen Brunson
A combination of limited shooting range and explosion — plus Santa Barbara’s schedule —will have some teams skeptical about Ajay Mitchell. There will be others who see too much production and success creating, shotmaking and finishing to nitpick. He has the shiftiness and craft that could sway teams to bet on him. It won’t hurt him for guards like Tyrese Haliburton and Jalen Brunson to make the All-Star team.
25. Denver Nuggets: Kel’el Ware
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 24
- School: Indiana
- Nationality: American
- Position: C
- Size: 7-foot-0, 242 lbs
- Age: 19
- Pro Comparison: Chimezie Metu
Inconsistent impact may cause many teams to hesitate on Kel’el Ware, though advantageous NBA tools/athleticism and enticing shotmaking skill will help him earn consideration closer to the lottery. The 7-foot size, length and mobility could help teams picture surefire finishing and shot-blocking. The flashes of three-point range and post fallaways hint at higher upside.
26. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Clippers): Johnny Furphy
- Previous mock draft spot: Off the board
- School: Kansas
- Nationality: Australian
- Position: Small forward
- Size: 6-foot-9, 202lbs
- Age: 19
Returning to a bigger sophomore role at Kansas does seem reasonable for Johnny Furphy. But in a weaker 2024 draft, NBA teams may be motivated to sway more young prospects to improve this year’s field. Furphy has come alive lately with a coveted combination of 6-foot-9 size, shooting, athleticism around the basket and energy. Assuming the stroke is real, he seems very easy to project filling a role at the next level.
27. Minnesota Timberwolves: Stephon Castle
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 18
- School: Connecticut
- Nationality: American
- Position: SG
- Size: 6-foot-6, 215 lbs
- Age: 19
- Pro comparison: Anthony Black
Stephon Castle’s high school tape will sway some teams to remain patient. It’s been a mixed season so far that’s highlighted his passing and positional strength for driving or finishing through contact. There will be skeptics concerned over his shooting and whether he possesses enough self-creation skill for half-court scoring. But he’ll have top-20 suitors who’ll see a useful two-way playmaker and wing defender, an archetype that can buy him time to improve his shot.
28. Toronto Raptors (via Thunder): Dillon Jones
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 29
- School: Weber State
- Nationality: American
- Position: SG/SF
- Age: 22, Senior
- Size: 6-foot-6, 235 lbs
- Pro comparison: David Roddy
Dillon Jones is fairly divisive with his triple-double skill set, unorthodox body type and a style that doesn’t fit any traditional NBA box. There is bound to be a team who’ll try to avoid over-thinking a physical, 6-foot-6 ball-handler and playmaker who creates for himself, passes, hits tough mid-range shots, leads games in rebounding and has at least been capable of averaging a 3-point make per game in consecutive years.
29. Milwaukee Bucks: Jaylon Tyson
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 30
- School: California
- Nationality: American
- Position: SF/PF
- Size: 6-foot-7, 215 lbs
- Age: 21
- Pro comparison: Dillon Brooks
Jaylon Tyson is starting to generate conversation in scouting circles after his second 30-point game of the month. At 6-foot-7, he’s been a very effective pick-and-roll ball-handler using his ball-handling and size on drives, passing, pull-up shots and floaters.
He’s had less success executing without a screen, so skeptics may question how much of his creation will translate. But between his positional tools, shotmaking, secondary playmaking (3.2 assists per game) and scoring production (20.6 points), there is enough here for teams to starting taking Tyson more seriously.
30. Boston Celtics: Jared McCain
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 28
- School: Duke
- Nationality: American
- Position: SG
- Age: 19, Freshman
- Size: 6-foot-3, 197 lbs
- Pro comparison: Landry Shamet
Regardless of how much creation Jared McCain can bring to the NBA, he possesses enough shooting credibility and IQ for teams to feel confident that they’re getting a connector. Aside from his shotmaking, he has flashed some crafty handling, footwork and touch shots, signs that he may be capable of being used on the ball to some degree.
31. Toronto Raptors (via Pistons): Oso Ighodaro
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 31
- School: Marquette
- Nationality: American
- Position: C
- Age: 21, Senior
- Size: 6-foot-11, 235 lbs
- Pro comparison: Jaylin Williams
Oso Ighodaro remains interesting for his ball-handling and passing skills from the 4 or 5 positions. He’s also showing signs of some translatable, complementary scoring with his athletic play-finishing and signature push shots around the key. Though he’s not the easiest fit with his shooting and shot-blocking limitations, his ability to give a frontcourt a different look remains appealing.
32. Detroit Pistons (via Wizards): Tyrese Proctor
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 47
- School: Duke
- Nationality: Australian
- Position: PG
- Age: 19, Sophomore
- Size: 6-foot-5, 183 lbs
- Pro comparison: Shake Milton
Tyrese Proctor is in the midst of his best stretch with 13 3-pointers over Duke’s last four games. The signs of shooting potential mixed with evident passing IQ help reduce concerns over his ability to create and put pressure on the defense and rim.
Instead of picturing a lead guard, it’s become more realistic to project a combo or connector, valued for his shotmaking, decision-making and ability to make plays as a pick-and-roll ball-handler.
33. San Antonio Spurs: Zvonimir Ivišić
- Previous mock draft spot: Off the board
- School: Kentucky
- Nationality: Croatian
- Position: PF/C
- Size: 7-foot-2, 234 lbs
- Age: 20
Zvonimir Ivišić had the college basketball and scouting worlds buzzing after debuting with three 3-pointers, five boards, three blocks, two steals and a flashy behind-the-back assist.
The performance highlighted a unique combination of 7-foot-2 size, ball skill and shotmaking.
His follow-up appearance may have been more telling in terms of what he’s ready to offer on a consistent basis. Ivišić picked up three fouls in 10 minutes and looked slow executing and defending the perimeter.
Shooting range, passing and good energy will hold scouts’ attention and interest. But he’s still more of a long-term project with wide-ranging outcomes/trajectories.
34. Portland Trail Blazers (via Hornets): Pelle Larsson
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 38
- School: Arizona
- Nationality: Swedish
- Position: SF
- Age: 22, Senior
- Size: 6-foot-6, 215 lbs
Skeptics question whether Pelle Larsson has a specialty skill or strength that creates an advantage at the next level. Believers see versatility that creates adaptability, with Larsson able to slash and pass in ball-screen situations, spot-up shoot or drive from off the ball and use floaters to compensate for limited explosion.
35. Milwaukee Bucks (via Blazers): Kanaan Carlyle
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 34
- School: Stanford
- Nationality: American
- Position: PG/SG
- Size: 6-foot-3, 185 lbs
- Age: 19
- Pro comparison: Anfernee Simons
After a late debut in December, scouts still want more time to confidently assess Kanaan Carlyle’s impressive start. Unless he suddenly hits a wall and stays down, there will be teams too tempted by his shiftiness, creativity and shotmaking confidence for NBA scoring. How consistently he’s able to approach 20 points, and whether he can show enough playmaking flashes, will determine whether he’s a desirable 2024 prospect or a likely 2025 first-round target.
36. Philadelphia 76ers (via Raptors): Adem Bona
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 35
- School: UCLA
- Nationality: Turkish/Nigerian
- Position: C
- Age: 20, Sophomore
- Size: 6-foot-10, 245 lbs
- Pro comparison: Isaiah Jackson
Scouts’ minds sound mostly made up on Adem Bona’s high floor, low ceiling and projected role at the next level. His physical tools, athleticism and motor should continue translating to easy baskets, rim protection and defensive range. A limited offensive skill set and high turnover rate suggest he won’t offer much outside of off-ball finishing and putbacks.
37. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Grizzlies): DJ Wagner
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 32
- School: Kentucky
- Nationality: American
- Position: PG/SG
- Age: 18, Freshman
- Size: 6-foot-4, 192 lbs
- Pro comparison: Collin Sexton
DJ Wagner’s jumper and shortcomings around the rim have raised questions about his scoring upside. But his ability to create advances and rim pressure with his quickness and dribble remains attractive. And despite underwhelming numbers, the eye test still sees a threatening shotmaker and serviceable facilitator whose shooting seems improvable.
38. Houston Rockets (via Nets): Melvin Ajinça
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 33
- Team: Saint-Quentin
- Nationality: French
- Position: SG/SF
- Age: 19
- Size: 6-foot-7
- Pro comparison: Jett Howard
Melvin Ajinça’s shotmaking from last summer’s World Cup has carried over to LNB Pro A. He’s been one of the top-producing teenagers in the league, mostly by spot-up shooting and hitting the occasional pull-up. Ajinça adds minimal creation, playmaking or rim pressure, and the lack of defensive stats highlights his limited athletic ability.
39. Portland Trail Blazers (via Hawks): Adama Bal
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 27
- School: Santa Clara
- Nationality: French
- Position: SG/SF
- Size: 6-foot-7, 190 lbs
- Age: 20
Adama Bal’s breakout has caught NBA attention, especially with Santa Clara producing quality pros in consecutive years. He’s had some off shooting nights lately that have brought the percentages down to realistic levels, but his ball-screen play, shotmaking versatility and finishing have been persuasive for a 6-foot-7 wing.
40. Houston Rockets (via Warriors): PJ Hall
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 40
- School: Clemson
- Nationality: American
- Position: PF/C
- Age: 21, Senior
- Size: 6-foot-10, 238 lbs
- Pro comparison: Jeremiah Robinson-Earl
Taking and making more 3s and demonstrating a different speed of movement on drives and defense, PJ Hall has made the right changes to generate extra NBA interest this June. Teams will see a stretch big and effective post/insider scorer who should offer enough shot-blocking and foot speed to defend at an adequate level.
41. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Rockets): Hunter Sallis
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 37
- School: Wake Forest
- Nationality: American
- Position: SG
- Age: 20, Junior
- Size: 6-foot-5, 185 lbs
Hunter Sallis’ breakout continues to show scouts enticing highlights of shotmaking versatility, separating ability and athletic finishing for three-level scoring. The lack of playmaking and positional size for a non-combo 2-guard just means there is little margin for error.
42. Boston Celtics (via Bulls): Zach Edey
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 41
- School: Purdue
- Nationality: Canadian
- Position: C
- Age: 21, Senior
- Size: 7-foot-4, 300 lbs
As dominant as Zach Edey has been at Purdue, the majority of teams will show minimal interest in adding a 300-pound center who lives around the basket. All it takes is one team to see a useful interior force who’ll add value by adding an easy-basket target, a high-percentage post option and defensive paint presence.
43. New York Knicks (via Jazz): Wooga Poplar
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 36
- School: Miami
- Nationality: American
- Position: SG
- Age: 20, Junior
- Size: 6-foot-5, 197 lbs
Wooga Poplar has struggled offensive lately, but not with his 3-point shotmaking. While the lack of creation and playmaking always warned about staying cautious when projecting NBA upside, his combination of athleticism and shooting versatility could still translate to off-ball scoring.
44. San Antonio Spurs (via Lakers): Izan Almansa
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 39
- Team: G League Ignite
- Nationality: Spanish
- Position: PF/C
- Age: 18
- Size: 6-foot-10, 230 lbs
- Pro comparison: Jabari Walker
Enough time has passed without Izan Almansa showing convincing signs of modern skills or scoring upside. Age is still on his side, but he’ll be drafted by a team realistically just banking on him providing consistent play-finishing and activity with his wide frame, instincts, hands and timing.
45. Orlando Magic: Judah Mintz
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 45
- School: Syracuse
- Nationality: American
- Position: PG/SG
- Age: 20, Sophomore
- Size: 6-foot-4, 185 lbs
- Pro comparison: Jaden Ivey
Scouts continue to sound split on Judah Mintz’s speed/athleticism, passing, 3-point limitations and underwhelming physical tools. Over the past week, he’s had a 28-point game against Florida State and a 13-assist line against Miami. By June, Mintz should have flashed enough creativity, tough shotmaking and playmaking to look like the best player available in the 30s or 40s.
46. Miami Heat: Alex Karaban
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 48
- School: Connecticut
- Nationality: American
- Position: PF
- Age: 21, Sophomore
- Size: 6-foot-8, 220 lbs
Alex Karaban is checking the right boxes for plug-and-play, off-ball scoring with 3-point/movement shooting, cutting, pick-and-rolling or popping. His pitch to NBA teams is more about an easy-to-picture fit than upside.
47. Boston Celtics (via Mavericks): Justin Edwards
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 43
- School: Kentucky
- Nationality: American
- Position: SF
- Age: 19, Freshman
- Size: 6-foot-8, 203 lbs
- Pro comparison: Olivier Maxence-Prosper
Justin Edwards doesn’t have the statistical profile of a one-and-done prospect. There may still be teams willing to buy low and bet on the track record of freshmen who’ve been up-and-down at Kentucky and managed to look better after a few NBA seasons. At this stage, gambling on Edwards’ shotmaking becoming a reliable strength is worth a pick.
48. Washington Wizards (via Suns): Coleman Hawkins
- Previous mock draft spot: Off the board
- School: Illinois
- Nationality: American
- Position: PF
- Size: 6-foot-10, 225 lbs
- Age: 22
Big shooting nights are becoming more common for Coleman Hawkins. It feels like he’s making the jump scouts wanted to see. A reliable 3-ball would unlock a coveted form of versatility, with Hawkins already an established, skilled passer who can defend multiple forward and wing archetypes.
49. Indiana Pacers (via Pelicans): Aaron Bradshaw
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 46
- School: Kentucky
- Nationality: American
- Position: C
- Age: 19, Freshman
- Size: 7-foot-1, 226 lbs
Aaron Bradshaw’s offensive role has been limited, and it’s not likely to increase after the arrival of Zvonimir Ivišić. Flashes of shotmaking and NBA tools for finishing and shot-blocking should still create enough theoretical potential to draw top-40 consideration.
50. Los Angeles Clippers (via Pacers): Mantas Rubstavicius
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 53
- Team: New Zealand Breakers
- Nationality: Lithuanian
- Position: G
- Size: 6-foot-5, 196 lbs
- Age: 21
NBA teams will look at Mantas Rubstavicius’ 3-point shooting in the NBL and volume scoring in previous FIBA settings and see a worthy second-round pick. He’s been ultra efficient spotting up for the New Zealand Breakers, with adequate wing size, shotmaking, passing IQ and open-floor finishing prowess to project as an NBA fit.
51. Sacramento Kings: Trey Alexander
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 51
- School: Creighton
- Nationality: American
- Position: SG
- Size: 6-foot-4, 190 lbs
- Age: 20, Junior
- Pro comparison: E’Twaun Moore
There wasn’t overwhelming NBA love for Trey Alexander last year, and now his 3-point percentage has fallen significantly this season. He’s still an obvious shotmaker from three levels, and the frequency of athletic finishes and playmaking has gone up.
52. Indiana Pacers (via Cavaliers): Baylor Scheierman
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 50
- School: Creighton
- Nationality: American
- Position: SF
- Size: 6-foot-7, 205 lbs
- Age: 23, Senior
- Pro comparison: Joe Ingles
Baylor Scheierman continues to showcase the type of shotmaking and playmaking IQ for a connector role that doesn’t require plus athleticism. NBA teams will see a reliable 6-foot-7 spot-up and movement shooter who can still add some on-ball value with his ball-screen playmaking feel.
53. Philadelphia 76ers (via Knicks): DaRon Holmes II
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 54
- School: Dayton
- Nationality: American
- Position: C
- Size: 6-foot-10, 235 lbs
- Age: 21, Junior
An explosive finisher with a 6-foot-10, 235-pound frame, DaRon Holmes II is now taking four times as many 3s as he did last year. The uptick in attempts and makes — plus more frequent flashes of face-up play and passing — at least creates some hope that Holmes can offer more than just easy baskets off transition, dump downs, lobs/rolls and putbacks. If he was a borderline late-second-round pick last year, he figures to be in the Nos. 31-45 range on more boards in a weaker 2024 class.
54. Los Angeles Lakers (via Clippers): Trevon Brazile
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 42
- School: Arkansas
- Nationality: American
- Position: PF/C
- Age: 20, Sophomore
- Size: 6-foot-10, 220 lbs
- Pro comparison: Thomas Bryant
Trevon Brazile’s offensive production and development have stalled this year, despite some early-season signs of shooting improvement and added scoring versatility. The potential for elite athleticism to return (following last year’s ACL tear), plus a workable jump shot, should still create a useful archetype for a number of NBA teams.
55. Indiana Pacers (via Bucks): Antonio Reeves
- Previous mock draft spot: Off the board
- School: Kentucky
- Nationality: American
- Position: SG
- Age: 23, Senior
- Size: 6-foot-6, 195 lbs
Concerns around Antonio Reeves’ age and athleticism become less worrisome in the Nos. 45-58 range. A team figures to take a second-round gamble on his 6-foot-6 size, shotmaking production, shooting versatility and useful floater for the NBA.
56. Houston Rockets (via Thunder): Baba Miller
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 39
- School: Florida State
- Nationality: Spanish
- Position: SF/PF
- Age: 19, Sophomore
- Size: 6-foot-11, 204 lbs
- Pro comparison: Jonathan Isaac
Baba Miller remains more of an idea than a player teams can feel confident in consistently contributing in the NBA. The idea of a 6-foot-11 wing with some three-point range, slashing ability, passing skills and defensive versatility is still enticing enough for a second-round pick. On the bright side, he’s been mostly efficient offensively and active on defense, and he still does have time/room to build on the shooting flashes.
57. Denver Nuggets (via Timberwolves): Tyler Kolek
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 42
- School: Marquette
- Nationality: American
- Position: PG
- Age: 22, Senior
- Size: 6-foot-3, 195 lbs
- Pro comparison: Malachi Flynn
The scouting report on Tyler Kolek hasn’t changed much, as his pick-and-roll feel, passing IQ, spot-up shooting, weaker pull-up game and limited athletic ability have remained the same for two years. He’ll get looks from teams who’ll see a useful extra ball-handler and second-unit playmaking.
58. Charlotte Hornets (via Celtics): Harrison Ingram
- Previous mock draft spot: No. 58
- School: North Carolina
- Nationality: American
- Position: SF
- Age: 21, Junior
- Size: 6-foot-7, 235 lbs
Between Harrison Ingram’s improved shotmaking at North Carolina, his playmaking at Stanford and the potential advantages of possessing 6-foot-7, 235-pound size for a wing, visions of an NBA connector should be strong enough to generate second-round interest.
* * *
Jonathan Wasserman is the lead scout and NBA Draft analyst for Bleacher Report. You can follow him on X, formerly known as Twitter. The views on this page do not necessarily reflect the views of the NBA, its clubs or Warner Brothers Discovery.
Stats courtesy of Synergy Sports and Sports Reference.
