2024 NBA Mock Draft 4.0: Spurs get 2 game-changers, Wizards land potential star at 1

13. New Orleans Pelicans (via Lakers) snag Kyle Filipowski

Filipowski was one of the best players in the 2022 high school class and was drawing first-round buzz after his freshman season at Duke, but the seven-footer decided to return to school. He has vastly improved in year two and will likely be a lottery selection in June.

Filipowski did a bit of everything for Duke this season. He is averaging 17.1 points, 8.2 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 1.1 steals, and 1.6 blocks in 30.4 minutes per game. The seven-footer shot 51.1 percent from the field and 35.0 percent on his threes. His ability to handle the ball, make plays, and stretch the floor has scouts most intrigued. Finding a versatile offensive big man like that is not easy.

His defense improved tremendously this season, but there are questions at the next level. He will struggle on the perimeter and may not be able to protect the rim enough to play significant minutes. The 20-year-old must continue to improve if he wants to have a lengthy NBA career.

The Pelicans have questions at center next season. Jonas Valanciunas is an unrestricted free agent this summer, and New Orleans may look to move on. They have failed in recent attempts to draft a big man, but Kyle Filipowski has the upside to change that narrative. The Pels could let the Lakers keep this selection and take their 2025 first-rounder, so stay tuned for that crucial decision after the season.