The thrill and uncertainty of the NBA Draft are at its peak, with 24 top prospects coming together in the ballroom of the Lotte New York Palace. With only a few hours left until the start of the draft, excitement and conjecture fill the atmosphere. Here is a detailed examination of the main players, possible transactions, and the general feeling as we near one of the most important events in the NBA schedule.
The Unpredictable Favorite: Alex Sarr
Alex Sarr, a standout from Australia’s NBL who stands at 7 feet 1 inch, has refused to participate in a workout with the Atlanta Hawks, but is still willing to join any team that selects him in the draft. Sarr told Yahoo Sports that he is willing to play for any team that selects him in the draft. Sarr is said to prefer the Washington Wizards, who own the second pick in the draft. In the beginning of a rebuilding phase, Sarr sees room for development in the Wizards organization. He observed that they are a youthful team and believes they are progressing well.
Donovan Clingan: A Key Big Man
Donovan Clingan from UConn is another top prospect who has caught the attention of the Atlanta Hawks. Clingan has worked out for the Hawks and sees a strong fit with their guards in pick-and-roll scenarios. The Hawks, known for potential trade scenarios involving Trae Young and Dejounte Murray, could shake things up if they decide to select Clingan. Teams like the Lakers, Pelicans, and Spurs are also interested in Young, potentially influencing the draft dynamics.
San Antonio Spurs’ Strategy
The Spurs, holding the fourth and eighth picks, have shown interest in Clingan, even arranging a Zoom meeting with him. There’s speculation that their interest might be a tactic to entice other teams to move up in the draft. The Spurs have been considering pairing Victor Wembanyama with a shooting center, a role Clingan might not perfectly fit, but his defensive strengths are undeniable.
Rising Stars and Potential Trades
Cody Williams from Colorado and Ron Holland from the G League Ignite echoed the general uncertainty about their draft positions. Williams has worked out for every team picking in the top 10, while Holland has had sessions with multiple teams, including Atlanta, Charlotte, and Portland. The draft could see numerous trades as teams maneuver for the best positions.
San Antonio’s Interest in Devin Carter and Nikola Topić
Devin Carter from Providence has emerged as a possible pick for the Spurs at No. 8. His potential to connect with Wembanyama on the court is exciting. Meanwhile, Serbian point guard Nikola Topić, despite a partially torn ACL, is another name linked to the Spurs. Topić’s draft range is uncertain, but he’s hopeful to be picked within the top 20.
Oklahoma City’s Prospects
Oklahoma City, holding the No. 12 pick, has plenty of future first-round picks to use as trade leverage. Pittsburgh guard Bub Carrington, a dynamic player, has been frequently mentioned for the Thunder. Carrington’s rise has been unexpected, making his inclusion in the green room a pleasant surprise.
Other Top Prospects
Baylor’s Yves Missi and Indiana’s Ke’lel Ware are both in the mix among the second tier of big men. Missi has been linked to the Lakers, who are looking for a versatile big man, and Philadelphia as another potential landing spot. Ware, who worked out with 16 different teams, is a candidate for Toronto at No. 19.
Isaiah Collier: A Top Guard
Isaiah Collier from USC, a former top-ranked high school prospect, faces challenges in finding his draft position. Collier remains confident in his abilities and lists Chicago, San Antonio, and Miami as potential destinations. “I still think I’m the best player in the draft,” he asserted, showcasing his optimism and readiness for the NBA.
The Lakers, Pelicans and Spurs are three appealing potential trade destinations to Trae Young, per @JakeLFischer (https://t.co/laEllcLxY6).
Atlanta is expected to engage teams on Young trade scenarios. pic.twitter.com/EVlcL8VIWa
— Evan Sidery (@esidery) June 25, 2024
Expectations for the night of the draft.
Teams are getting ready for a night of uncertainty and possible trades as the NBA Draft nears. The absence of a standout top candidate has increased the uncertainty, making this draft one of the most fascinating in recent memory. Fans and analysts are excitedly anticipating how the draft will unravel and which teams will succeed with their picks.