2024 NBA Mock Draft 6.0: Spurs attack needs, Hornets make shock selection
By Tyler Watts
The 2024 NBA Draft figures to be filled with surprises. Things are spread over two days for the first time, and this class is filled with uncertainty. There will be All-Sars and game-changers entering the league, but uncovering those talents won’t be easy.
It is a massive night for the San Antonio Spurs. Victor Wembanyama is ready to win, but his franchise needs more talent. They have four picks in this draft, including two in the top eight, so it will be franchise-changing night. The Spurs' focus should be putting pieces around Wemby, and in many ways, San Antonio controls how things will go down.
Atlanta’s surprise lottery win leaves things a bit uncertain at the top with less than two weeks until draft night. There will be some shocking selections and trades to shake things up, but here is a look at how the first round currently sits.
1. Atlanta Hawks select Alex Sarr
The Hawks are in a state of flux after missing the playoffs. The Trae Young and Dejounte Murray partnership has not worked. Atlanta wants to contend but has not won a playoff series since reaching the conference finals in 2021. They have to make moves and should select the top player on their board.
Sarr is a seven-footer dripping with potential. Scouts are intrigued by his defense as a big man capable of switching onto the perimeter and guarding multiple positions. That versatility is massive, especially in the playoffs as the opposition does more matchup hunting.
The 19-year-old’s offensive game is more unclear. He shot just 27.6 percent from 3-point range for Perth in the NBL this season. Sarr played a limited role off the bench, but many believe his jumper will improve in time. He has shown some flashes as a roll man and lob threat but must improve his screening ability to become a serious threat.
If Alex Sarr puts everything together, he is the best player in this class. He could be a stretch big man who defends well in space and can protect the rim. The Hawks have struggled on defense since drafting Trae Young and would love to add a game-changing big man to their mix.