2024 NBA Mock Draft: Latest 2-Round Predictions, Plus Pro Comparisons
While there have been questions about the strength of the 2024 NBA draft, we're still starting to see teams preparing to build through it.
The Toronto Raptors have been the first to begin adding picks following their recent trades with the New York Knicks and Indiana Pacers. In the next month, we'll be monitoring other teams like the Atlanta Hawks and Chicago Bulls, who could also become sellers.
As for the prospects, the G League Ignite stars have started to turn things around. We're also starting to see breakout names emerge as the season progresses, as this week's update has three new players included in our first-round projections.
On the downside, a number of key prospects have gone down with injuries, although none are expected to be season-ending.
1. Detroit Pistons: Alexandre Sarr
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Stock status: Steady
Previous mock draft spot: No. 1
Team/Nationality: Perth Wildcats/French
Position: PF/C
Size: 7'1", 216 lbs
Age: 18
Pro comparison: Jaren Jackson Jr.
Unlikely to confidently identify an obvious best player in the draft, the Detroit Pistons may put extra stock into needs and fit. Adding those filters would lead them to Alexandre Sarr, who could plug into the 4 spot with his budding shooting confidence and ability to defend the perimeter.
With Sarr, Ausar Thompson and Jalen Duren, Detroit's identity may quickly shift and revolve around its defense, while Cade Cunningham and Jaden Ivey are relied on to generate the offense.
Sarr should return soon from injury to continue building a case around his 7'1" size, athleticism, rim protection, switchability and flashes of shotmaking and open-floor ball-handling.
2. San Antonio Spurs: Nikola Topić
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Stock status: Steady
Previous mock draft spot: No. 2
Team/Nationality: KK Crvena Zvezda/Serbian
Position: PG
Size: 6'6", 198 lbs
Age: 18
Pro comparison: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
Regardless of where the San Antonio Spurs end up in the lottery, Nikola Topić may be the target. While his positional size, rare production for his age, unteachable passing and finishing and room to improve as a shooter create a credible best-prospect-in-the-draft case, he'd also fill a glaring hole with his ball-handling and playmaking.
A knee injury will force Topić to miss time now, but he looked comfortable getting to spots in his brief EuroLeague play after transferring to Red Star. Now with a chance to play against the stiffest competition outside the NBA, proving he can still break down defenses, get to the rim and consistently set up teammates will help Topić validate his unusual effectiveness (for a teenager) in the Adriatic League and help teams picture his offense translating.
While shooting and defense still aren't strengths, he's demonstrated enough shotmaking firepower and on-ball competitiveness to keep teams optimistic about his potential to improve.
3. Washington Wizards: Zaccharie Risacher
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Stock status: Steady
Previous mock draft spot: No. 3
Team/Nationality: JL Bourg/French
Position: SF
Size: 6'8", 204 lbs
Age: 18
Pro comparison: Michael Porter Jr.
The Washington Wizards should have been familiar with Zaccharie Risacher heading into the season, considering they drafted Bilal Coulibaly from the same LNB Pro A and U21 Leagues in France. Both faced each other multiple times in 2022-23.
But Risacher looks like a different player this season, now shooting an outstanding 47.5 percent from three, a number that could give him an edge over G League Ignite prospects Ron Holland and Matas Buzelis.
Risacher's overall efficiency, positional size and athleticism, shotmaking and defense point to a low-risk, easy-fit prospect. But with more freedom last year in the LNB Espoirs league, more flashes of ball-handling and playmaking suggest there is more upside than just three-and-D wing.
4. Charlotte Hornets: Ron Holland
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Stock status: Up
Previous mock draft spot: No. 6
School: G League Ignite
Position: SF
Size: 6'6", 204 lbs
Age: 18
Pro Comparison: Cam Whitmore
With Gordon Hayward and Miles Bridges entering free agency after the season, the Charlotte Hornets will be looking closely at the G League Ignite wings. And Ron Holland may be swaying skeptics to rethink their premature doubts. He's coming off a 30-point game and near triple-double (21 points, 10 boards, eight assists, four blocks, three steals) consecutively, flashing his signature athleticism downhill, moving the ball more and knocking down enough jumpers to create some optimism.
He's been highly convincing all season attacking in the open floor, in semi-transition or off ball screens with his speed, explosion and footwork for blowing by defenses, sidestepping them and finishing.
The shotmaking has to become more consistent, but he's still clearly capable for an 18-year-old.
5. Portland Trail Blazers: Matas Buzelis
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Stock status: Steady
Previous mock draft spot: No. 5
Team: Ignite
Position: SG/SF
Size: 6'8", 209 lbs
Age: 19
Pro comparison: Franz Wagner
Without room for another ball-handling guard like Rob Dillingham, the Portland Trail Blazers will give Matas Buzelis a hard look.
After watching him in high school and games like Monday's, when he went 4-of-4 from three, it should be easy to ignore the percentages and see a better shooter than this year's numbers suggest.
For a 6'8" forward, the shotmaking versatility, fluidity attacking in space, athleticism around the basket and on-ball defensive flashes create an enticing big-wing archetype.
6. Toronto Raptors: Rob Dillingham
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Stock status: Steady
Previous mock draft spot: No. 7
School: Kentucky
Position: PG/SG
Size: 6'3", 176 lbs
Age: 18
Pro Comparison: Kemba Walker
The Toronto Raptors lose their pick to the San Antonio Spurs if it's No. 7 or later. The Pascal Siakam trade improves their chances of keeping the pick and adding a guard like Rob Dillingham to pair with Immanuel Quickley.
That pair could give the Raptors' offense substantial creativity and shotmaking. The Kentucky guard is shooting 42.2 percent and averaging 4.1 assists in just 22.4 minutes while sharing the rock with D.J. Wagner.
Dillingham has thrived playing on and off the ball, as he continues to look comfortable drilling deep, spot-up jumpers. Having an interchangeable backcourt should look attractive to the Raptors, who'd then play RJ Barrett on the wing and Scottie Barnes at power forward.
7. Memphis Grizzlies: Cody Williams
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Stock status: Steady
Previous mock draft spot: No. 4
School: Colorado
Position: SF
Size: 6'8", 190 lbs
Age: 19
Pro comparison: Jaden McDaniels
Hit hard by injuries, the Memphis Grizzlies will have a chance to add a lottery pick to an obvious playoff roster when it's at full strength. This roster also would be an ideal one for Cody Williams, who could play to his strengths and add value with them by giving a Ja Morant-Desmond Bane-Jaren Jackson Jr. core some complementary slashing/finishing, ball-moving and defense.
Memphis' hope would be for Williams' shooting to develop into a plus. He's shown promise here, but the lack of attempts suggests NBA teams shouldn't be banking on early shotmaking.
In the meantime, Williams has thrived by attacking downhill, using his positional height and touch to convert drives, efficiently scoring within Colorado's offense and disrupting opposing ball-handlers and wings on defense.
8. Atlanta Hawks: Ja'Kobe Walter
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Stock status: Steady
Previous mock draft spot: No. 8
School/Team: Baylor
Position: SG
Size: 6'5", 195 lbs
Age: 19
Pro Comparison: Moses Moody
Ja'Kobe Walter continues to look like a safe top-10 pick with his strong frame, shotmaking versatility and defense.
The lack of creation and playmaking for a wing could allow him to be there for the Atlanta Hawks or others outside the top five. But without any obvious star power left on the board, the high likelihood of a three-and-D starter outcome will make Walter a popular target in this draft.
He's shooting 38.5 percent on 5.7 three-point attempts per game and 84.6 percent from the free-throw line. The flashes of step-backs, off-screen jumpers and tough runners are what help fuel visions of a more dynamic scorer.
9. Houston Rockets (via Nets): Kyle Filipowski
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Stock status: Up
Previous mock draft spot: No. 12
School: Duke
Position: PF/C
Size: 7'0", 248 lbs
Age: 20
Games like Duke's previous two will keep teams from nitpicking at Kyle Filipowski's shooting percentages. He's buried eight of nine threes over his last 67 minutes, when he combined to score 56 points playing inside and out at 7'0".
Regardless of how good of a shooter he really is, Filipowski clearly has shotmaking range to stretch the floor to go with his open-floor ball-handling, excellent passing and effective mix of strength and touch around the basket.
And while he doesn't come off as a high-upside defender, he's improved his block rate significantly while delivering encouraging sequences of lateral foot speed guarding in space.
Even if Filipowski isn't the dominant scorer he is in college, he checks too many boxes with skill and mobility to doubt his effectiveness at the next level.
10. Portland Trail Blazers (via Warriors): Yves Missi
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Stock status: Steady
Previous mock draft spot: No. 10
School: Baylor
Position: C
Size: 7'0", 235 lbs
Age: 19
Pro comparison: Mark Williams
With two top-10 picks, the Portland Trail Blazers could use their second one to improve defensively. It's easy to picture rim protection translating from a prospect with Yves Missi's physical tools, athleticism and defensive numbers.
Deandre Ayton had been mostly underwhelming prior to his injury. With Missi, the Blazers would have a better sense of what they're getting on a nightly basis with his finishing, shot-blocking, pick-and-roll defense and energy.
11. Chicago Bulls: Tidjane Salaun
11 of 58Stock status: Steady
Previous mock draft spot: No. 11
Team/Nationality: Cholet/France
Position: PF
Size: 6'8", 212 lbs
Age: 18
Pro comparison: Obi Toppin
Streakiness won't keep teams from considering Tidjane Salaun outside the top 10. Not turning 19 until August, he's one of the draft's youngest prospects, shooting 38.1 percent from three as an athletic, 6'9" forward with the tools and mobility to guard multiple frontcourt archetypes.
Age, positional size, shotmaking, play-finishing and defense create an exciting foundation for Salaun to build on.
The Chicago Bulls will prioritize upside over fit with the franchise still stuck in no-man's land, Zach LaVine on the trade block and DeMar DeRozan entering free agency. And the French forward is starting to look more interesting than the majority of NCAA one-and-done freshmen and upperclassmen still on the board.
12. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Rockets): Tyler Smith
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Stock status: Steady
Previous mock draft spot: No. 18
Team: Ignite
Position: PF
Size: 6'11", 224 lbs
Age: 19
Tyler Smith has been the one Ignite prospect to exceed expectations. And he's doing it with a mix of 6'11" size and shotmaking the NBA will clearly covet.
The lack of ball-handling won't bother teams outside the top 10. His physical tools and shooting create a clear, stretch-forward archetype that's easy to identify, project fit-wise and picture translating.
At 19 years old, he's at 37.8 percent from three while also showing touch on his mid-range shots and one-handers.
13. New Orleans Pelicans: Dalton Knecht
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Stock status: Up
Previous mock draft spot: No. 21
School: Tennessee
Position: SF
Size: 6'6", 204 lbs
Age: 22
Pro comparison: Max Strus
Dalton Knecht just erased memories of a mini slump in December by putting up 28 points against Mississippi State, 36 points against Georgia and 39 points against Florida in three consecutive games.
He's a clear NBA shotmaker with 6'6" size and the physical slashing ability and passing IQ to add value in secondary areas. Knecht's offensive floor seems high enough to the point where a lottery team may be happy to settle on adding a surefire shooter and complementary scorer, even if the limited creation or quickness suggests there isn't a path to stardom.
14. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Jazz): Ulrich Chomche
14 of 58Stock status: Steady
Previous mock draft spot: No. 20
Team: NBA Academy Africa/Cameroon
Position: PF/C
Size: 6'11", 225 lbs
Age: 18
Expected to consider going to college next season, Ulrich Chomche may want to capitalize on his eligibility for a weaker draft. He's also coming off a big December with standout performances at the Sunrise Prep Showcase and G League Showcase for NBA Academy Africa.
General manager Sam Presti has a history of swinging for high-upside projects, an accurate description of a 6'11" (7'4" wingspan) rim protector, capable shotmaker and improving ball-handler who doesn't turn 19 until after Christmas 2024.
15. Phoenix Suns: Isaiah Collier
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Stock status: Steady
Previous mock draft spot: No. 13
School: USC
Position: PG
Size: 6'5", 210 lbs
Age: 19
Pro comparison: Ty Lawson
A hand injury will cost Isaiah Collier up to six weeks, limiting his opportunities to sell teams on his improved shooting or decision-making.
A weak off-ball game could ultimately lead to a slide, with most teams already invested in lead ball-handlers. That could allow the Phoenix Suns to add his rim pressure, creativity and passing late in the lottery.
While it's difficult to buy his three-ball or feel for running an NBA offense early in his career, Collier should still be able to provide value with his speed in transition, physical driving, gravity, paint scoring and ability to set up teammates.
16. Orlando Magic: Reed Sheppard
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Stock status: Steady
Previous mock draft spot: No. 9
School: Kentucky
Position: SG
Size: 6'3", 187 lbs
Age: 19
Pro comparison: Donte DiVincenzo
While lottery teams may hesitate to take a 6'3" guard who isn't a high-level creator, playoff teams may see an instant role player who can provide spot-up shooting, ball-moving and pesky defense.
Entering Wednesday, Kentucky was 15 games in and Sheppard's outrageous efficiency and defensive production weren't falling. Sheppard was at 54.1 percent on 4.1 three-point attempts while averaging 4.1 assists (to 1.5 turnovers), 2.5 steals and 0.8 blocks in 26.5 minutes.
17. New York Knicks: Kevin McCullar Jr.
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Stock status: Steady
Previous mock draft spot: No. 17
School: Kansas
Position: SG/SF
Size: 6'7", 214 lbs
Age: 22
With the New York Knicks in win-now mode, it wouldn't be surprising to see them move one or two of their first-round picks. But staying put could lead them to Kevin McCullar Jr., who'll be a 23-year-old rookie with the type of versatility and defensive tools to fit in easily at multiple positions.
The improved shooting and playmaking has led to scouts updating their evaluations. And while he still might not possess one signature skill, McCullar appears to be an effective enough slasher, shotmaker, passer and defender to operate as a connector or contribute differently each game.
18. Toronto Raptors (via Pacers): Stephon Castle
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Stock status: Steady
Previous mock draft spot: No. 16
School: Connecticut
Position: SG
Size: 6'6", 215 lbs
Age: 19
After trading Pascal Siakam and OG Anunoby, the Toronto Raptors will be drafting in best-player-available mode with all of their picks. Stephon Castle should look tempting this late due to his point-wing archetype, defensive toughness/ versatility and room to improve his main weakness: Shooting.
The 6'6" freshman has stood out early with his comfort level facilitating and tools to lock down and guard different archetypes. He's also had success with getting to spots with his signature pacing and position strength, and though his jump shot has scouts nervous, high school tape still shows capable shotmaking.
19. New Orleans Pelicans: Tristan da Silva
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Stock status: Steady
Previous mock draft spot: No. 19
School/Team: Colorado
Position: SF/PF
Size: 6'9", 220 lbs
Age: 22
Pro comparison: Kyle Kuzma
Tristan da Silva's shotmaking, skill level and IQ will keep teams from throwing red flags at his limited burst and explosion.
A convincing stroke and ability to shoot off movement and pull-ups suggest the 6'9" forward can slide right into a spot-up role. But he also has the touch around the key to score off line drives and post-ups. The New Orleans Pelicans would ultimately value his floor-spacing, complementary offense and decision-making for a rotation with star talent.
20. New York Knicks: KJ Simpson
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Stock status: Up
Previous mock draft spot: Off the board
School: Colorado
Position: Guard
Size: 6'2", 189 lbs
Age: 21
Athletic limitations and 6'2" size may prevent KJ Simpson from passing the eye test. But the functionality of his handle has led to effective creation. His shotmaking has been consistent off the catch and dribble, and he's used touch to compensate for no explosion. And he reads the game well at both ends, whether he's processing quickly as a passer or anticipating defensively to average 1.9 steals per game.
Teams are getting burned from putting too much stock into speed or bounce when it comes to point guards. Simpson's skill level, feel and efficiency could sway a first-round team to look past his underwhelming physical attributes.
21. Atlanta Hawks (via Kings): Donovan Clingan
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Stock status: Steady
Previous mock draft spot: No. 15
School: Connecticut
Position: C
Size: 7'2", 280 lbs
Age: 19
Pro Comparison: Jakob Poeltl
Donovan Clingan remains out with a foot injury, but as long as predraft medicals reveal no red flags, teams that could use another defensive anchor will show interest.
At 280 pounds, he's a lock to provide low-post scoring, easy baskets and offensive rebounding as well. But rim protection will drive his value, as Clingan takes up space around the basket with his frame, length and mobility, a combination he optimizes by effectively anticipating.
22. Miami Heat: Devin Carter
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Stock status: Up
Previous mock draft spot: No. 36
School/team: Providence
Position: PG/SG
Age: 21, Junior
Size: 6'3", 195 lbs
Pro comparison: Jose Alvarado
A high-intensity defender and active rebounder, Devin Carter is now generating NBA interest with his improved shotmaking and expanded scoring versatility.
While he's more of an undersized 6'3" combo than a point guard, his 8.4 boards and 1.1 blocks per game show how tough he plays for his limited frame.
Carter should have a chance to fit and make an impact without a textbook position just by applying ball pressure, streak-shooting and adding creativity when given space to handle.
23. Cleveland Cavaliers: Bobi Klintman
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Stock status: Steady
Previous mock draft spot: No. 23
Team/Nationality: Cairns Taipans/Swedish
Position: SF/PF
Age: 20
Pro comparison: De'Andre Hunter
Regardless of how up and down Bobi Klintman's production is in Australia, there will be first-round interest in a 6'8" forward who's comfortable from three, 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. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Clippers): Kel'el Ware
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Stock status: Down
Previous mock draft spot: No. 22
School: Indiana
Position: C
Size: 7'0", 242 lbs
Age: 19
Pro Comparison: Chimezie Metu
Kel'el Ware's size, finishing and shot-blocking tools and shot-making skill level have screamed lottery talent for years. Questions about his consistency and toughness continue to linger, though.
While some teams may not have confidence in his fluctuating presence for a second-year player, others may see too much talent to pass on outside the lottery.
Ware figures to win some teams back during workouts, where he's bound to impress with how easily he gets above the rim and releases threes.
25. Philadelphia 76ers: Ryan Dunn
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Stock status: Down
Previous mock draft spot: No. 14
School: Virginia
Position: SF/PF
Size: 6'8", 216 lbs
Age: 20
Pro comparison: Matisse Thybulle
While it's becoming difficult to justify taking a wing who doesn't create or shoot, the Philadelphia 76ers could value Ryan Dunn's athletic play-finishing and defense in a specialty role off the bench.
At the least, his explosion at 6'8" and historically-rare steal and block rates suggest the easy baskets and defensive activity should carry over.
26. Denver Nuggets: Ajay Mitchell
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Stock status: Steady
Previous mock draft spot: No. 25
School/Team: Santa Barbara
Position: PG
Age: 21, Junior
Size: 6'5", 190 lbs
Ajay Mitchell is coming off his fifth game of at least 25 points, but this—against Long Beach State—was his first with multiple threes.
At this stage, the main case against Mitchell focuses on his lack of three-point volume and Santa Barbara's weak schedule. But given how effective he is creating and finishing with his handle, change of speed and touch, how consistently/efficiently he's scoring on inferior opponents, plus the fact that he's at 38.9 percent from deep and 83.3 percent from the free-throw line, some team in the first round figures to see a risk worth taking in the 20s.
27. Toronto Raptors (via Pacers): Adama Bal
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Stock status: Up
Previous mock draft spot: Off the board
School: Santa Clara
Position: SG/SF
Size: 6'7", 190 lbs
Age: 20
It's the third consecutive year that Santa Clara has had a prospect break out and draw NBA attention, and this time it's Adama Bal producing with an appealing mix of ball-screen scoring, spot-up shooting, floater touch and tough finishing.
Athletic question marks and an underwhelming schedule have led to some skepticism over the legitimacy of his production and how it will translate to the NBA.
But this late, one team figures to buy his combination of offensive versatility and ability to create looks with 6'7" size, change of speed and timing.
28. Milwaukee Bucks: Jared McCain
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Stock status: Steady
Previous mock draft spot: No. 26
School/Team: Duke
Position: SG
Age: 19, Freshman
Size: 6'3", 197 lbs
Pro comparison: Landry Shamet
With Buddy Hield entering the final year of his deal, the Indiana Pacers could look to Jared McCain for shooting insurance. He's at 42.1 percent from three, accuracy that is consistent with his results from high school.
He should be able to add some extra value with his pick-and-roll reads, pull-up game and overall craftiness, but McCain will earn his paychecks with off-ball and movement shotmaking.
29. Minnesota Timberwolves: Dillon Jones
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Stock status: Up
Previous mock draft spot: No. 45
School/Team: Weber State
Position: SG/SF
Age: 22, Senior
Size: 6'6", 235 lbs
Pro comparison: David Roddy
There will be division among scouts on Dillon Jones' unique versatility and questionable NBA fit/position. But all it takes is one team to see the potential reward being worth the risk in this range.
After earning an NBA combine invitation last year with his point-wing skills and rebounding, he's shown improvement to his spot-up shooting, mid-range shotmaking and self-creation.
Between his signature ability to handle and pass at 6'6", 235 pounds, consistently track down misses and suddenly look comfortable off the ball, Jones is becoming a more tempting prospect to target.
30. Boston Celtics: Jaylon Tyson
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Stock status: Up
Previous mock draft spot: Off the board
Team: California
Position: SF/PF
Size: 6'7", 215 lbs
Age: 21
Jaylon Tyson's breakout seems more real by the game, as he's consistently scoring 20-plus points off a combination of shotmaking, self-creation and physical drives.
While scouts are still assessing if he's quick enough for an NBA wing, at 6'7", 215 pounds, the potential to operate as a small-ball 4 should relieve some concern.
Regardless, Tyson is hurting defenses in a number areas on and off the ball, attacking and passing in ball-screens situations, shooting off the dribble, cutting and making spot-up threes at a respectable rate.
31. Toronto Raptors (via Pistons): Oso Ighodaro
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Stock status: Steady
Previous mock draft spot: No. 31
School/team: Marquette
Position: C
Age: 21, Senior
Size: 6'11", 225 lbs
Pro comparison: Jaylin Williams
While Oso Ighodaro has well-documented limitations with his shooting, rebounding and shot-blocking, there will be interest in ball-handling, passing and touch from the center position.
Offenses can run through him at the top of the key. He'll be used to find teammates as a short-roll playmaker. And he should be able to provide some degree of scoring threat with his finishing and signature push shot.
32. Detroit Pistons (via Wizards): D.J. Wagner
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Stock status: Steady
Previous mock draft spot: No. 28
School/Team: Kentucky
Position: PG/SG
Age: 18, Freshman
Size: 6'4", 192 lbs
Pro comparison: Collin Sexton
The main appeal to D.J. Wagner has been his ability to create driving advantages and put pressure on the rim.
Scouts question his shot and whether he's wired to play-make enough for a lead guard. But his handle and quickness for penetrating have been mostly convincing, and he's flashed enough shotmaking skill and setup passing to keep visions of an NBA combo guard alive.
33. San Antonio Spurs: Melvin Ajinca
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Stock status: Steady
Previous mock draft spot: No. 24
Team/nationality: Saint-Quentin/France
Position: SG/SF
Age: 19
Size: 6'7"
Teams thinking about Melvin Ajinca will covet his shotmaking, which continues to look persuasive when paired with a solid, 6'7" frame.
The question is whether his shooting will be potent enough to offset his lack of creation and athleticism. The 19-year-old wing has made 36 threes in 19 games, while just 23 two-point field goals and 14 assists highlight his limitations.
34. Portland Trail Blazers (via Hornets): Kanaan Carlyle
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Stock status: Up
Previous mock draft spot: Off the board
School: Stanford
Position: PG/SG
Size: 6'3", 185 lbs
Age: 19
Pro comparison: Anfernee Simons
Kanaan Carlyle will start to generate more draft buzz if the shotmaking and scoring creativity continue through conference play.
At 6'3", his archetype more closely mirrors an Anfernee Simons-type combo than a full-package point guard. But Carlyle packs some appealing firepower with his deep range, pull-up game, runner package and ability to get himself rhythm jumpers.
35. Milwaukee Bucks (via Blazers): Adem Bona
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Stock status: Steady
Previous mock draft spot: No. 35
School/team: UCLA
Position: C
Age: 20, Sophomore
Size: 6'10", 245 lbs
Pro comparison: Isaiah Jackson
There will be interest in Adem Bona's defense and finishing, as the 6'10" big clearly has the athletic ability, mobility and motor to continue picking up easy baskets, blocking shots and covering ground.
However, he just hasn't made a convincing jump offensively, and the high turnover and foul rates highlight his questionable feel for the game.
36. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Grizzlies): Wooga Poplar
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Stock status: Steady
Previous mock draft spot: No. 32
School/team: Miami
Position: SG
Age: 20, Junior
Size: 6'5", 197 lbs
Scouts have started to picture an NBA scorer now that Wooga Poplar is drilling threes on high volume and hitting dribble jumpers with consistency and convincing rhythm. While the lack of creation to his game suggests he'll still be more of a spot-up player, his shooting, athleticism and ability to pull up should help Poplar provide enough firepower in a complementary, play-finishing role.
37. Los Angeles Clippers (via Raptors): Hunter Sallis
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Stock status: Steady
Previous mock draft spot: No. 27
School/team: Wake Forest
Position: SG
Age: 20, Junior
Size: 6'5", 185 lbs
While the lack of playmaking does reduce Hunter Sallis' versatility and margin for error, it's getting tough to poke holes in his scoring potential.
The 6'5" guard has been efficient with his three-level shotmaking by hitting spot-up threes, drilling pull-ups at an excellent rate and delivering athletic finishes at the rim.
He's building an interesting draft case around his on- and off-ball scoring.
38. Portland Trail Blazers (via Hawks): Pelle Larsson
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Stock status: Up
Previous mock draft spot: No. 55
School/Team: Arizona
Position: SF
Age: 22, Senior
Size: 6'6", 215 lbs
NBA teams may start to buy into Pelle Larsson's versatility/efficiency across the board and ignore the fact that he's missing a speciality skill.
Given his projected role, the lack of creation shouldn't be problematic. He's an effective slasher with the size/strength to translate. He's made 17 of 32 threes and is shooting over 80.0 percent from the line for the fourth straight season.
And with 54 assists to 24 turnovers, Larsson possesses the passing IQ and decision-making teams want from a role player.
39. Houston Rockets (via Nets): Izan Almansa
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Stock status: Steady
Previous mock draft spot: No. 34
Team: Ignite
Position: PF/C
Age: 18
Size: 6'10", 230 lbs
Pro comparison: Jabari Walker
Far more productive over the past month, Izan Almansa is finding ways to score using his body, timing and touch for play-finishing off dump-downs, lobs, offensive boards and miscellaneous push shots around the key.
He doesn't offer enough for teams to enter the draft targeting him as a Plan A first-round pick, but he's interesting as a 6'10", 230-pound 18-year-old who contributes with mostly unteachable tools and instincts, and who's flashed hints of face-up drives and spot-up shooting.
40. Houston Rockets (via Warriors): PJ Hall
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Stock status: Steady
Previous mock draft spot: No. 41
School/team: Clemson
Position: PF/C
Age: 21
Size: 6'10", 238 lbs
Pro comparison: Jeremiah Robinson-Earl
PJ Hall has raised his level of dominance in his go-to areas around the post and block.
There won't be a long line for a 6'10" back-to-the-basket big and finisher, but he's become too advanced for his inside scoring, pick-and-roll finishing and cutting not to translate.
And he's now up to 26 made threes in 17 games, a development that will help to keep interest growing if it continues through conference play.
41. Boston Celtics (via Bulls): Zach Edey
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Stock status: Steady
Previous mock draft spot: No. 43
School/team: Purdue
Position: C
Age: 21, Senior
Size: 7'4", 300 lbs
Zach Edey bounced back from a loss to Nebraska with consecutive 30-point games, including one against projected first-round pick Kel'el Ware.
There will be teams that have no interest in adding a 7'4" center who can't shoot or switch, but one is bound to see a risk worth taking on men's college basketball's most dominant player.
The ideal outcome has Edey continuing to get clean, high-percentage looks for himself in the post while his size, tools and mobility translate to routine easy baskets and shot-blocking.
42. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Rockets): Trevon Brazile
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Stock status: Down
Previous mock draft spot: No. 29
School/Team: Arkansas
Position: PF/C
Age: 20, Sophomore
Size: 6'10", 220 lbs
Pro comparison: Thomas Bryant
Trevon Brazile isn't delivering the same caliber or frequency of high-flying dunks as he was before last year's ACL tear. But a patient team may want to wait on his athleticism returning and bet on his improving three-point shot and occasional flashes of the 6'10" big putting the ball down into drives, finishes or runners.
43. San Antonio Spurs (via Lakers): Justin Edwards
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Stock status: Down
Previous mock draft spot: No. 33
School/team: Kentucky
Position: SF
Age: 19, Freshman
Size: 6'8", 203 lbs
Pro comparison: Olivier Maxence-Prosper
Certain teams may put more stock into their high school scouting on Justin Edwards. He's struggled to score this year playing a spot-up heavy role, though poor shooting hasn't helped and remains worrisome.
Positional size and athleticism for play-finishing and defense, plus flashes of line-drives, pull-up jumpers and set threes should create enough theoretical potential to keep him in the top-40 conversation.
But whoever drafts him likely knows it's getting a project or 2024-25 G League player until his handle and shot become more reliable.
44. New York Knicks (via Jazz): Baba Miller
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Stock status: Steady
Previous mock draft spot: No. 39
School/team: Florida State
Position: SF/PF
Age: 19, Sophomore
Size: 6'11", 204 lbs
Pro comparison: Jonathan Isaac
Baba Miller's freshman flashes were intriguing, but scouts wanted to see more production and impact as a sophomore. He's still delivering mostly flashes, though, with just five double-digit scoring games all season.
Patient teams will value the archetype, with Miller being a 6'11" wing capable of handling in space, spot-up shooting, finishing and disrupting defensively. There will just be some guesswork in determining whether he'll put everything together over the next few years.
45. Washington Wizards (via Suns): Judah Mintz
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Stock status: Steady
Previous mock draft spot: No. 45
School/team: Syracuse
Position: PG/SG
Age: 20, Sophomore
Size: 6'4", 185 lbs
Pro comparison: Jaden Ivey
Believers buy into Judah Mintz's open-floor speed, rim pressure and finishing and two-way playmaking. Skeptics question his frame, length and three-point shot.
Whoever drafts him will likely picture a bench spark who can add value with his attack mode, knack for hitting tough shots, ability to set the table in ball-screen situations and defensive energy.
46. Orlando Magic: Aaron Bradshaw
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Stock status: Down
Previous mock draft spot: No. 40
School/team: Kentucky
Position: C
Age: 19, Freshman
Size: 7'1", 226 lbs
Pro comparison: Mohamed Bamba
The appeal to Aaron Bradshaw seems to be fading, as there isn't a single area—athletically or skill-wise—where he looks advanced.
However, there figures to still be second-round interest in a 19-year-old 7-footer with a capable jumper and tools for offensive rebounding and shot-blocking.
47. Philadelphia 76ers (via Knicks): Tyrese Proctor
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Stock status: Down
Previous mock draft spot: No. 30
School/Team: Duke
Position: PG
Age: 19, Sophomore
Size: 6'5", 183 lbs
Pro comparison: Shake Milton
Tyrese Proctor could fall to the second round unless he starts to show some real improvement to his self-creation and shooting consistency. He'll still generate interest regardless, but it will be more so for versatility as a connector, not a lead guard.
Age, shotmaking potential and passing IQ will keep teams from totally jumping off his wagon.
48. Los Angeles Clippers (via Pacers): Alex Karaban
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Stock status: Steady
Previous mock draft spot: No. 44
School/team: Connecticut
Position: PF
Age: 21, Sophomore
Size: 6'8", 220 lbs
With 16 threes over Connecticut's last four games, Alex Karaban is becoming a shooter for teams to target in the second round.
He might not offer enough creation or versatility to draw first-round interest, but for a 6'8" forward, his shotmaking versatility and adequate defensive foot speed could help him find an NBA role.
49. Sacramento Kings: Matthew Cleveland
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Stock status: Steady
Previous mock draft spot: No. 48
School/team: Miami
Position: SF
Age: 21, Junior
Size: 6'7", 208 lbs
Pro comparison: Otto Porter Jr.
Matthew Cleveland continues to score with impressive efficiency, mostly by getting out in transition, cutting off the ball, crashing the offensive glass and hitting spot-up threes at a high clip.
The lack of on-ball flashes and three-point volume figure to create some skepticism from certain teams, but one figures to see a wing who'll make plays for himself off the ball and continue to improve his shooting range.
50. Boston Celtics (via Mavs): Baylor Scheierman
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Stock status: Up
Previous mock draft spot: Off the board
School: Creighton
Position: SF
Size: 6'7", 205 lbs
Age: 23
Pro comparison: Joe Ingles
Baylor Scheierman may be mastering the connector skills that also make his athletic limitations less worrisome. At 6'7", he'll be one of the draft's most proven shotmakers who also rebounds, averages 3.9 assists and thrives in ball-screen situations.
51. New Orleans Pelicans: Trey Alexander
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Stock status: Steady
Previous mock draft spot: No. 46
School/team: Creighton
Position: SG
Age: 20, Junior
Size: 6'4", 190 lbs
Pro comparison: E'Twaun Moore
Trey Alexander has shown improvement in areas scouts wanted him to—creation and passing—and regression with the shooting that previously put him on the map. His play this year has divided scouts.
Teams could still see a useful reserve 2-guard based on his three-level shotmaking and pick-and-roll facilitating.
52. Atlanta Hawks (via Heat): Pacome Dadiet
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Stock status: Steady
Previous mock draft spot: No. 54
Team/Nationality: Ratiopharm Ulm/French
Position: SF
Age: 18
Size: 6'6", 187 lbs
Since scoring a season-high 17 points in late December, Pacome Dadiet has been highly efficient, capitalizing on his limited scoring opportunities each game. With NBA wing size, his jumper looks promising, both off the catch and dribble.
Not turning 19 until July, he still looks more like a draft-and-stash option if he declares and stays in the draft.
53. Indiana Pacers (via Cavs): Mantas Rubstavicius
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Stock status: Steady
Previous mock draft spot: No. 38
Team/nationality: New Zealand Breakers, Lithuanian
Position: G
Size: 6'5", 196 lbs
Age: 21
Mantas Rubstavicius has stood out in the NBL with projectable shooting, smart passing and transition finishing.
The 2022 European Championships' leading scorer will be one of the older European prospects in this year's pool, and teams may see a rookie contributor thanks to his mature game, age and experience overseas.
54. Los Angeles Lakers (via Clippers): DaRon Holmes II
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Stock status: Up
Previous mock draft spot: Off the board
School: Dayton
Position: C
Size: 6'10", 235 lbs
Age: 21
Over the last month, DaRon Holmes II has had four games with three three-point makes. It's an interesting development, considering his outstanding physical tools and athleticism for finishing couldn't generate significant NBA interest last year.
With Holmes putting extra emphasis on showing off improved range and the 6'10" big man assisting and shot-blocking at higher clips this year, he should be making scouts rethink their previous evaluations.
55. Houston Rockets (via Thunder): Trentyn Flowers
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Stock status: Steady
Previous mock draft spot: No. 56
Team/Nationality: Adelaide 36ers/USA
Position: SG/SF
Age: 18
Size: 6'8", 205 lbs
Trentyn Flowers hasn't hit a three since November 17, and while there's still plenty of time to get back on track, he isn't going to have a consistent role to make it easy.
Pre-draft workouts will be his best chance at selling teams on his positional size, athleticism and shotmaking.
56. Indiana Pacers (via Bucks): Tyler Kolek
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Stock status: Down
Previous mock draft spot: No. 42
School/team: Marquette
Position: PG
Age: 22, Junior
Size: 6'3", 195 lbs
Pro comparison: Malachi Flynn
It's difficult to detect upside in Tyler Kolek, but he could attract teams interested in adding an extra ball-handling and playmaker.
Despite limited tools and burst for creating and blowing by, he's demonstrated translatable pick-and-roll facilitating instincts, floater touch for scoring and a reliable catch-and-shoot stroke.
57. Denver Nuggets (via Wolves): Harrison Ingram
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Stock status: Steady
Previous mock draft spot: No. 51
School/team: North Carolina
Position: SF
Age: 21, Junior
Size: 6'7", 235 lbs
Improved shooting has improved Harrison Ingram's case for an NBA connector role. Scouts will just need to go back to the tape at Stanford, where the 6'7" wing was used more as a playmaker and passer.
Possessing no burst is limiting when it comes to scoring, but NBA teams will be interested in his combination of shotmaking and ball-moving.
58. Charlotte Hornets (via Celtics): Reece Beekman
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Stock status: Steady
Previous mock draft spot: No. 58
School/team: Virginia
Position: PG
Age: 22, Senior
Size: 6'3", 194 lbs
Pro comparison: Jevon Carter
Reece Beekman will still be auditioning for a defensive specialist role, but he's been far more efficient this year finishing inside the arc.
However, scouts have been wanting to see more progress made with his shooting, and he hasn't shown any so far as a senior.
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