2024 NBA Mock Draft 5.0: Spurs find point guard, Raptors keep lottery selection
By Tyler Watts
2. Washington Wizards draft Alex Sarr
The Wizards are in year one of their rebuild and need a star to vault them back into contention. Bradley Beal’s no-trade clause limited his value, so Washington must hit on the draft picks they have. Expect them to go for upside and finding a 7’1 big man with versatility seems like a wise move.
Sarr is coming off the bench for Perth in the NBL this season, but it has not stopped him from displaying his immense potential. He has a reported 7’5 wingspan and is capable of defending in the paint or on the perimeter. Sarr has blocked 1.5 shots in just 18.0 minutes per game as an 18-year-old. Scouts are intrigued by his potential, and he could quickly become a difference-maker on this end of the floor.
His offensive game is a work in progress. Sarr is shooting 27.6 percent over 58 3-point attempts this season. He is making nearly two per game but must improve his jumper to reach his ceiling. Teams will be interested to see him upgrade as a screener and ball-handler too. Sarr has the potential but must unlock it.
The Washington Wizards have the foundation of a strong defense with Alex Sarr and Bilal Coulibaly. They may still be searching for their number one option, but rebuilding is always a slow process in the NBA.