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2024 NBA Mock Draft: A New No. 1 + Pro-Player Comps For Every Prospect

Jonathan Wasserman

Draft boards are changing after last week's NBA combine.

In this latest update, we have a new projected No. 1 overall pick for the first time in months. More new names appear in our top five.

Prospects previously expected to go undrafted have moved into the second-round mix. A few projected second-rounders last week will now earn first-round consideration. And after talking to scouts and executives in Chicago, Bleacher Report has a better feel for what teams expect to happen toward the top of the draft.

However, it's still considered early in the process, and there will be plenty of movement and buzz ahead with workouts about to start.

1. Atlanta Hawks: Zaccharie Risacher

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May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 2

Team: JL Bourg-en-Bresse

Position: SG/SF

Size: 6'8", 204 lbs

Age/Year: 19

Nationality: French

Pro Comparison: Harrison Barnes

With lottery teams paying close attention to the LNB Pro A playoffs, Zaccharie Risacher picked a good time to explode for a career-high 28 points on Saturday.

The Atlanta Hawks' big decision-makers made the trip to France for JL Bourg's previous game.

While scouts continue to debate the height of Risacher's ceiling, there is also perceived level of certainty tied to his positional size, athleticism, shotmaking and defensive tools/quickness. And in a draft where there isn't an obvious, sure-thing All-Star at the top, Risacher's floor and valued three-and-D archetype could give him an edge with a team that saw AJ Griffin struggle with injuries and Saddiq Bey go down late to an ACL tear.

2. Washington Wizards: Alex Sarr

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May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 1

Team: Perth Wildcats

Position: PF/C

Size: 7'1", 216 lbs

Age/Year: 19

Nationality: French

Pro Comparison: Evan Mobley

The Washington Wizards can ignore fit and needs at No. 2, though Alex Sarr could potentially check both the best-player-available box and give them the cornerstone big they've been missing.

He measured well in Chicago, coming in at just under 7'0" in socks, 224 pounds with a 7'4" wingspan. At that size, the ability to slide defensively, handle in the open floor and shoot off the dribble really separates him from other centers.

The Wizards will eventually need to find a point guard, but at No. 2, Sarr's physical talent, evolving skill versatility and defensive upside create visions of upside that could be difficult to resist.

3. Houston Rockets (via Nets): Donovan Clingan

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May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 7

Team: Connecticut

Position: C

Size: 7'2", 282 lbs

Age/Year: 20, Sophomore

Nationality: American

Pro Comparison: Rudy Gobert

The buzz and excitement around Donovan Clingan seems to be growing, even after he anchored Connecticut's national title run. Scouts and executives were impressed with the easy ball he shot during workouts at the combine, considering Clingan attempted just eight threes all season.

He also measured just under 7'2" in socks with a near 7'7" wingspan and 9'7" standing reach.

The Houston Rockets may debate whether adding Clingan would create a logjam with Alperen Sengun. But they may also be too drawn to his rim protection, which would be a nice complement to Sengun's offensive versatility.

There is another idea that Houston could move the pick for a veteran, and Clingan would be a potential target for teams looking to move up and improve defensively.

4. San Antonio Spurs: Nikola Topić

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May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 4

Team: KK Crvena Zvezda

Position: PG

Size: 6'6", 198 lbs

Age/Year: 18

Nationality: Serbian

Pro Comparison: Goran Dragić

Another knee injury could complicate evaluations and decisions on Nikola Topić, who's going to miss the rest of the Adriatic League playoffs. However, there has been no indication of any serious damage, and the San Antonio Spurs have presumably seen enough to have confidence in Topić's playmaking and rim pressure.

He should be in the best-player-available conversation around No. 4, while his ball-screen play and passing could give him an extra edge for a team that needs more creation and a guard to make the game easier for Victor Wembanyama.

5. Detroit Pistons: Stephon Castle

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May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 6

Team: Connecticut

Position: SG

Size: 6'6", 210 lbs

Age/Year: 19, Freshman

Nationality: American

Pro Comparison: Anthony Black

The team with the worst record in the NBA won't worry too much about fit. Even with shooting a big question, Stephon Castle has become a popular name since the NCAA tournament. Scouts remain drawn to how he impacts games in different ways playing various roles.

Detroit figures to value his perimeter defense, particularly after he measured 6'5.5" in socks, 210 pounds with a 6'9" wingspan. He's physical at both ends. He creates for teammates. He crashes the offensive glass. And scouts and coaches rave about his intangibles.

The Pistons could talk themselves into Castle improving his shot—and the team's overall toughness and winning habits. For what it's worth, his jumper looked noticeably smoother during drills at the combine.

6. Charlotte Hornets: Reed Sheppard

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May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 3

Team: Kentucky

Position: PG/SG

Size: 6'2", 182 lbs

Age/Year: 19, Freshman

Nationality: American

Pro Comparison: Donte DiVincenzo

Reed Sheppard's underwhelming measurements (6'1.75" in socks, 6'3" wingspan) were expected. His 42-inch max vertical and 32.5-inch standing vertical were bigger, pleasant surprises that may have alleviated some concern over Sheppard's physical tools and perceived athleticism.

His offensive fit in Charlotte does seem strong. The Hornets can pair Sheppard with a 6'7" guard and playmaker in LaMelo Ball and a big scoring wing in Brandon Miller.

Sheppard ultimately seems well-liked by executives, particularly after interviews in Chicago. The question is if teams in the top five see enough upside to consider him.

7. Portland Trail Blazers: Dalton Knecht

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May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 10

Team: Tennessee

Position: SG/SF

Size: 6'5", 212 lbs

Age/Year: 23, Senior

Nationality: American

Pro Comparison: Wally Szczerbiak

The Portland Trail Blazers seem unlikely to draft another guard like Rob Dillingham. And the timelines of Ron Holland and Matas Buzelis may make them less attractive to a team that will be looking to give Scoot Henderson more help.

At 23 years old with a strong frame, outstanding shotmaking ability and a competitive edge, Dalton Knecht could look like a sure thing worth adding at No. 7. He comes with a level of skill, polish and professionalism that Portland could value over the perceived upside of bigger projects like Cody Williams and the Ignite teenagers.

8. San Antonio Spurs (via Raptors): Ron Holland

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May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 9

Team: G League Ignite

Position: SF

Size: 6'7", 197 lbs

Age/Year: 18

Nationality: American

Pro comparison: Cam Whitmore

If the San Antonio Spurs add a playmaker at No. 4, they could be more inclined to draft a wing like Ron Holland at No. 8. A defensive pairing of Nikola Topić and Rob Dillingham could create problems.

But Holland would give San Antonio one of the best athletes in the draft and a quick wing defender. And his handle and feel continue to improve in the half court.

Despite questions about Holland's shooting and decision-making, it still took a high level of functional athleticism and attacking ability—plus capable shotmaking—to average 19.5 points at 18 years old in the G League.

9. Memphis Grizzlies: Rob Dillingham

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May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 8

Team: Kentucky

Position: PG/SG

Size: 6'1", 164 lbs

Age/Year: 19, Freshman

Nationality: American

Pro Comparison: Darius Garland

Not that anyone was expecting Rob Dillingham to surprise with strong measurements, but 164 pounds could be seen as a scary number. He height, length and weight (6'1", 6'3" wingspan) are actually identical to Trae Young's, only Young led the NBA in assists, and Dillingham doesn't offer that type of playmaking.

Still, the offensive firepower he can generate with creation and shotmaking remains appealing. There isn't a guard in this class more shifty and effective at getting to spots.

But he does feel like a candidate to slip a bit, depending on teams' level of concern with his shot diet and poor defense at his size.

10. Utah Jazz: Cody Williams

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May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 11

Team: Colorado

Position: SF/PF

Size: 6'7", 178 lbs

Age/Year: 19, Freshman

Nationality: American

Pro Comparison: Jaden McDaniels

Scouts and executives are trying to determine Cody Williams' upside. It sounds like most see a two-way role player who'll find ways to score from off the ball and defend multiple positions.

He's been pegged right now as a safe pick, but it sounds like he could also go much earlier than No. 11, with scouts intrigued by his positional size/length and production/efficiency for a player who still has so much room and time to improve his skill level.

Teams will be eager to get a look at Williams' shooting during workouts, considering he shot well but on very low volume at Colorado.

11. Chicago Bulls: Matas Buzelis

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May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 5

Team: G League Ignite

Position: SF

Size: 6'9", 197 lbs

Age/Year: 19

Nationality: American/Lithuanian

Pro Comparison: Hedo Türkoğlu

On one hand, scouts are drawn to Matas Buzelis' scoring versatility and defensive playmaking flashes. On the other, he still doesn't have one skill NBA teams can bank on translating.

He did measure near 6'9" in socks at the combine, but his wingspan also came in at just 6'10".

The results and feelings on the 19-year-old wing continue to be mixed.

Workouts will be extra important for Buzelis, who came to Ignite with expectations of being a solid shooter but finished at 26.1 percent from three.

12. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Rockets): Tidjane Salaun

May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 21

Team: Cholet

Position: PF

Size: 6'9", 212 lbs

Age: 18

Nationality: French

Pro comparison: Obi Toppin

Tidjane Salaun has been streaky, but he's in the midst of one of his best stretches of the season at an important time in the LNB Pro A playoffs.

He combined for 33 points in Cholet's first two games against Paris.

Salaun, who has now made an impressive 74 threes as a 6'9", 18-year-old, continues to show NBA teams his range. And though his handle and self-creation remain limited, he's still finding ways to earn easy baskets from off the ball, tapping into his size, athleticism and motor.

13. Sacramento Kings: Devin Carter

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May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 18

Team: Providence

Position: PG/SG

Size: 6'2", 193 lbs

Age/Year: 22, Junior

Nationality: American

Pro comparison: Derrick White

A big winner from athletic testing, Devin Carter set an NBA combine record in the sprint, tied for the highest max vertical and finished third in lane agility time. He also measured a near 6'9" wingspan, huge and key for a guard who could be considered undersized at the 2.

Despite strange shooting mechanics, he made plenty of jumpers during drills after hitting 84 threes this season. Teams may question the upside of a 6'2" combo, but between the shotmaking improvement, nifty ball-screen play and outstanding defensive length, IQ, quickness and intensity, Carter looks like a top-20 lock who'll get looks in the late lottery.

14. Portland Trail Blazers (via Warriors): Jared McCain

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May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 13

Team: Duke

Position: PG/SG

Size: 6'2", 203 lbs

Age/Year: 20, Freshman

Nationality: American

Pro Comparison: Immanuel Quickley

Jared McCain put on some impressive shooting displays during drills at the combine, showing textbook repetition of form. Shotmaking has and will always be what powers his offense and value, but McCain's effectiveness this year in ball-screen situations, using change of speed, footwork, crafty finishing and vision, point to more on-ball upside with his creativity and feel.

15. Miami Heat: Isaiah Collier

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May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 15

Team: USC

Position: PG

Size: 6'3", 205 lbs

Age/Year: 19, Freshman

Nationality: American

Pro Comparison: Tyreke Evans

Listed as 6'5" by USC, Isaiah Collier measured 6'2.5" (socks) with a near 6'5" wingspan at the NBA combine. He also didn't shoot that well during drills, and teams will be looking closely into his almost set jump shot during workouts.

Still, the draw to Collier is his shiftiness for creativity, physicality attacking and finishing and live-dribble passing skill. Teams that think his jump shot and decision-making should improve will see more upside than those worried about his low-volume three-point numbers and turnovers. But even teams who have those concerns may be interested in Collier's ability to break down defenses, make plays off the bounce and put pressure on the rim.

16. Philadelphia 76ers: Kel'el Ware

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May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 16

Team: Indiana

Position: C

Size: 7'0", 230 lbs

Age/Year: 20, Sophomore

Nationality: American

Pro Comparison: Brook Lopez

Kel'el Ware measured well at the NBA combine, even showing a standing reach that was 2.5 inches longer than potential No. 1 overall pick's Alex Sarr. He was also down 12 pounds from Indiana's listing. For Ware to maximize his draft stock, he's going to have to convince teams to buy into his three-point range.

Ware still has a very high skill level for a center who's above average athletically and nearly 7'0" in socks. And the big increase in scoring production helped validate the effectiveness of his tools, movement and shotmaking.

17. New Orleans Pelicans (via Lakers): Yves Missi

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May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 22

School: Baylor

Position: C

Size: 6'11", 229 lbs

Age/Year: 20, Freshman

Nationality: Cameroon

Pro comparison: Nic Claxton

Yves Missi measured well as expected at nearly 6'11" in socks with a 7'2" wingspan. He should start to draw mid-to-late first-round interest from teams that covet his defensive upside as a rim protector and ability to move his feet around the perimeter and recover in pick-and-rolls coverage. The offense is bonus, but Baylor ran plenty of actions for Missi around the top of the key, where he showed he can face up, put the ball down and attack opposing bigs.

18. Orlando Magic: Ja'Kobe Walter

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May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 14

Team: Baylor

Position: SG/SF

Size: 6'4", 198 lbs

Age/Year: 19, Freshman

Nationality: American

Pro comparison: Kentavious Caldwell-Pope

No new updates were made to Ja'Kobe Walter's scouting report after the NBA combine. His measurements, middle-of-the-pack athletic tests and promising shotmaking sequences were all expected.

He's going to get pegged with a safe label that sees a three-and-D 2-guard who can defend both wing positions. The lack of creation and playmaking may just make it tougher for teams to picture upside worth a top-10 pick.

19. Toronto Raptors (via Pacers): Zach Edey

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May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 23

School/Team: Purdue

Position: C

Size: 7'4", 299 lbs

Age: 22, Senior

Nationality: Canadian

Pro comparison: Jonas Valančiūnas

At the least, Zach Edey may have opened scouts' imaginations at the combine with the comfort level he demonstrated making jump shots during drills. Regardless, for a center who measures just under 7'4" in socks with a near 7'11" wingspan, his touch and footwork have gotten sharp enough for scouts to picture a useful low-post scorer and offensive rebounder. Teams deeper up front will look elsewhere. So will those who question how playable he'll be defensively in the playoffs. He'll be enticing to teams looking to add more size, physicality around the basket and interior offense.

20. Cleveland Cavaliers: Tristan da Silva

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May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 20

School/team: Colorado

Position: SF/PF

Size: 6'8", 217 lbs

Age/Year: 23, Senior

Nationality: German/Brazilian

Pro comparison: Trey Lyles

Tristan da Silva had a quiet NBA combine, measuring as expected and finishing middle of the pack during athletic tests before skipping scrimmages.

Teams will start to think about da Silva in the mid-to-late first round, with the idea that he can provide plug-and-play shotmaking and complementary, spot-up scoring. Though not overly explosive off the dribble, a high skill level (at 6'8") and basketball IQ will have some teams willing to look past the athletic limitations.

21. New Orleans Pelicans (via Bucks): Terrence Shannon Jr.

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May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 17

Team: Illinois

Position: SG/SF

Size: 6'6", 219 lbs

Age/Year: 23, Senior

Nationality: American

Pro Comparison: Kelly Oubre Jr.

An injury kept Terrence Shannon Jr. from drilling or testing at the NBA combine. Right now, the focus from NBA teams will be on his June 10 court date that was set after a May 10 hearing for rape allegations made against Shannon.

A cloud remains over his breakout season and the type of speed, athleticism, shotmaking improvement and defensive tools that would normally generate plenty of NBA interest.

22. Phoenix Suns: Tyler Smith

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May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 12

Team: Ignite

Position: PF

Size: 6'9", 224 lbs

Age: 19

Nationality: American

Pro comparison: Channing Frye

Tyler Smith didn't shoot as well at the combine as the Ignite highlight and numbers suggest he could. It won't mean much unless he struggles through workouts. Shotmaking is the main draw to Smith, who measured 6'9" with a 7'1" wingspan.

Limited evidence of him putting the ball down may keep teams from seeing paths to upside. Regardless, midway through the first round, interest will start to build in a stretch big with strong tools and athleticism for play-finishing around the basket.

23. Milwaukee Bucks (via Pelicans): Kyle Filipowski

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May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 19

Team: Duke

Position: PF/C

Size: 6'11", 230 lbs

Age/Year: 20, Sophomore

Nationality: American

Pro Comparison: Moritz Wagner

Measurements and athletic testing results from the NBA combine won't do Kyle Filipowski any favors. With shoes on, (6'10.75" in socks), he'll wind up with a negative wingspan (6'10.5"). And he finished in the bottom half of the foot speed and leaping tests.

His draft stock mostly feels unchanged for the past few months, though pre-draft risers could push him down boards. Shooting range, post skill, improved finishing and passing and defensive mobility create versatility that should lock Filipowski into the late-lottery/mid-first round.

While he doesn't project as a top option like he was at Duke, he checks the right complementary boxes to make a quick transition to a supporting stretch 4 or 5 role.

24. New York Knicks (via Mavericks): Kyshawn George

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May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 24

Team: Miami

Position: SG/SF

Size: 6'7", 209 lbs

Age/Year: 20, Freshman

Nationality: American

Pro Comparison: Dalano Banton

Kyshawn George skipped scrimmages in Chicago and avoided risking the intrigue he built up around his enticing jumbo-wing, ball-handler and shooter archetype.

He expectedly underwhelmed during athletic testing, and it's that severe lack of explosion that remains worrisome for two-point scoring. But among the non-lottery prospects, he's still viewed as one of the more interesting prospects due to his experience overseas and development/evolution into a 6'7" guard who shot 40.8 percent from three.

25. New York Knicks: Tyler Kolek

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May 12 mock draft spot: No. 27

Team: Marquette

Position: PG

Size: 6'1", 197 lbs

Age/Year: 23, Senior

Nationality: American

Pro comparison: Jason Preston

Underwhelming measurements (6'1", 6'3" wingspan) and athletic testing will keep teams' vision of Tyler Kolek as a backup. But that could still be enough to draw first-round interest, particularly from playoff teams who'll see a guard who can instantly provide pick-and-roll offense, spot-up shooting and toughness.

26. Washington Wizards (via Clippers): Carlton Carrington

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May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 35

School/team: Pittsburgh

Position: PG/SG

Size: 6'4", 195 lbs

Age: 18, Freshman

Nationality: American

Pro comparison: Nickeil Alexander-Walker

Carlton Carrington shot extremely well during shooting drills after measuring just under 6'4" in socks with a 6'8" wingspan. He's one of the draft's youngest prospects with positional size, serious shotmaking production and enough passing ability for teams to picture a point guard.

He didn't get to the rim much, and a 1.0 steal rate highlights some real concerns over his quickness for a guard. But teams won't overthink athleticism or numbers as much this late in this particular draft.

27. Minnesota Timberwolves: Jaylon Tyson

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May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 28

Team: California

Position: SF/PF

Size: 6'6", 218 lbs

Age/Year: 21, Junior

Nationality: American

Pro comparison: Caleb Martin

Jaylon Tyson figures to get looks from teams starting in the mid-to-late first round after a breakout season averaging 19.6 points and 3.5 assists.

A 30.1 percent usage on a 13-19 California team does cast a cloud over his statistical production. But the eye test clearly shows a scorer with NBA traits and skills, including 6'7" size, ball-handling for creation/playmaking and tough shotmaking.

28. Denver Nuggets: Baylor Scheierman

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May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 41

School/team: Creighton

Position: SF

Size: 6'6", 202 lbs

Age: 23, Senior

Nationality: American

Pro comparison: Joe Ingles

Scouts left the NBA combine more confident in Baylor Scheierman. He looked like a pro during shooting drills and scrimmages. Aside from his shotmaking, Scheierman brought in boards, made plays in ball-screen situations, scored with craft and footwork inside the arc and demonstrated vocal leadership.

He's going to generate first-round consideration from multiple teams, particularly the ones more interested in adding a good-bet role player than chasing longer-term upside.

29. Utah Jazz (via Thunder): Pacome Dadiet

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May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 26

Team: Ratiopharm Ulm

Position: SF/PF

Size: 6'8", 210 lbs

Age/Year: 18

Nationality: French

Pro comparison: Wilson Chandler

Still playing overseas, Pacome Dadiet has gradually put himself in the first-round discussion with shooting versatility, play-finishing and brief on-ball flashes for a 6'8", 18-year-old wing.

Between his age, efficient production in the German League and EuroCup and an adaptable, off-ball game, he seems to have a high floor with a path to upside if his creation evolves.

30. Boston Celtics: DaRon Holmes II

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May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 30

School/team: Dayton

Position: C

Size: 6'9", 236 lbs

Age: 21, Junior

Nationality: American

Pro comparison: Trayce Jackson-Davis

DaRon Holmes II made plenty of jump shots during shooting drills at the combine. And more strong shooting during workouts will continue to help, as scouts have been debating how much to buy this year's 38.6 percent mark from three.

He entered this pre-draft process with more momentum than he had last year. Improved range, handles/body control attacking the basket and passing have raised his draft stock, and he's coming off a 23-point, 11-rebound, three-assist, four-stock game with a pair of threes against Arizona in the NCAA tournament.

31. Toronto Raptors (via Pistons): KJ Simpson

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May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 33

School: Colorado

Nationality: American

Position: Guard

Size: 6'0", 187 lbs

Age/Year: 21, Junior

Pro comparison: Cole Anthony

KJ Simpson backed up the big stat lines at Colorado with a handful of blow-by drives, tough finishes and shotmaking during NBA combine scrimmages. He also got up for a 40.5-inch max vertical, which could help make up for the fact that he only measured 6'0" without shoes.

Production, creation skill, touch, range, energy and confidence could potentially sway a team to look past the underwhelming measurements.

32. Utah Jazz (via Wizards): Bobi Klintman

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May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 31

Team: Cairns Taipans

Position: SF/PF

Size: 6'9", 212 lbs

Age: 21

Nationality: Swedish

Pro Comparison: De'Andre Hunter

Bobi Klintman leaves NBA combine week as a classic fringe first-rounder—interesting enough to go in the 20s to a team that loves the big-wing archetype and two-way versatility, but not sharp enough in any one area for teams to confidently project what strengths/skills will translate.

He looked comfortable shooting in Chicago, and teams that ultimately buy his three-ball carrying over and improving could deem Klintman worth taking in the first round.

33. Milwaukee Bucks (via Blazers): Harrison Ingram

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May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 25

School/team: North Carolina

Position: SF/PF

Size: 6'5", 234 lbs

Age: 21, Junior

Nationality: American

Pro comparison: Naji Marshall

Harrison Ingram showed off his shotmaking in one scrimmage and passing with six assists in the other game. He's earned fans with his connector skill set and strength and 7'0" wingspan for rebounding and defensive activity. Scouts don't see a likely first-round pick, with questions about his burst for blowing by or explosion at the rim. But Ingram's two-way versatility and maturity are strong enough draws to earn consideration in the 30s.

34. Portland Trail Blazers (via Hornets): Johnny Furphy

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May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 29

Team: Kansas

Position: SF

Size: 6'8", 189 lbs

Age/Year: 19, Freshman

Nationality: Australian

Pro Comparison: Cam Johnson

Johnny Furphy's fairly simplistic and translatable combination of positional size, shooting and play-finishing could be enough for a team in the 20s. But his athletic-test results were disappointing at the combine, and a 189-pound frame at his size suggests he's at least a year from being physically ready for NBA minutes.

35. San Antonio Spurs: Kevin McCullar Jr.

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May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 32

School/team: Kansas

Position: SG/SF

Size: 6'5", 206 lbs

Age: 23, Senior

Nationality: American

Pro comparison: Josh Hart

Kevin McCullar Jr. continues to sit with a knee injury that kept him out of the NCAA tournament. He skipped drills, athletic testing and scrimmages at the combine, though it was unlikely scouts would learn anything new about the 23-year-old who attended the same event last year.

The Jayhawks ultimately looked like a different team without him, which speaks to his impact and wide-ranging contributions getting Kansas into offense, finishing plays, making shots and defending opponents' top wings.

Scouts buy his versatility and defense for a supporting NBA role, though he'll have to avoid any medical-report concerns.

36. Indiana Pacers (via Raptors): Ryan Dunn

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May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 38

School/team: Virginia

Position: PF

Size: 6'6", 214 lbs

Age/Year: 21, Sophomore

Nationality: American

Pro comparison: Matisse Thybulle

Ryan Dunn didn't crush athletic testing like his highlights suggested he might. Still, the eye test overrules the numbers and times. His defensive court coverage and play-disrupting around the basket led to some wild steal and block rates.

He's just going to need the right roster to help mask his ball-handling and shooting limitations. Dunn will earn his minutes by finishing, guarding different positions and playmaking on defense.

37. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Grizzlies): Keshad Johnson

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May 12 Mock Draft Spot: Off the board

School/Team: Arizona

Position: SF/PF

Age/Year: 22, Senior

Size: 6'6", 224 lbs

Nationality: American

Pro comparison: Robert Covington

Keshad Johnson popped numerous times in Chicago during scrimmages with his shooting, defensive playmaking and foot speed around the perimeter. He also tied for the highest max vertical at 42 inches, and he measured two of the biggest hands at the combine.

Interesting physical tools, athleticism, movement and shotmaking development should earn Johnson plenty of workouts and second-round consideration.

38. New York Knicks (via Jazz): Adem Bona

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May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 50

School/team: UCLA

Position: C

Size: 6'8", 243 lbs

Age: 21, Sophomore

Nationality: Turkish/Nigerian

Pro comparison: Daniel Gafford

Adem Bona measured a 7'4" wingspan, which tied for the highest standing vertical, and then showcased that length and athleticism on big finishes and blocks during scrimmages. The extra scoring this year at UCLA won't do much for his stock. But he still has the tools, motor, feet and leaping ability to continue making plays around the rim at both ends.

39. Memphis Grizzlies (via Nets): Cam Christie

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May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 44

School/team: Minnesota

Position: SG

Size: 6'5", 190 lbs

Age: 18, Freshman

Nationality: American

Pro comparison: Allen Crabbe

Cam Christie had a quiet NBA combine after choosing to skip scrimmaging. There is a certain lens that some scouts can look through and see upside based on his age, size, shotmaking and passing flashes. But he's being seen as a project who'll spend next year in the G League, regardless of where he's drafted.

40. Portland Trail Blazers (via Hawks): Dillon Jones

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May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 34

School/Team: Weber State

Position: SF

Age/Year: 22, Junior

Size: 6'5", 237 lbs

Nationality: American

Pro comparison: David Roddy

Ball-dominant at Weber State, Dillon Jones had trouble standing out in a different role at the NBA combine. On the bright side, he improved his athletic-test results across the board since last year, specifically his foot-speed times and vertical jumps.

The first round feels farfetched, but he should get looks in the 30s and 40s from teams drawn to his unique versatility as a 237-pound playmaker, excellent rebounder and improved shooter.

41. Philadelphia 76ers (via Bulls): Hunter Sallis

Kamil Krzaczynski/NBAE via Getty Images

May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 49

School/team: Wake Forest

Position: SG

Size: 6'4", 179 lbs

Age: 21, Junior

Nationality: American

Pro comparison: Malaki Branham

Hunter Sallis made an interesting decision to skip scrimmaging at the combine, though he did have some impressive moments scoring off the dribble during half-court five-on-five drills on Monday. There isn't much margin for error for 2-guards who aren't playmakers. But scouts remain interested in how well he's able to get his own shot and shoot off the dribble and catch.

42. Charlotte Hornets (via Rockets): Pelle Larsson

Jeff Haynes/NBAE via Getty Images

May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 43

School/Team: Arizona

Position: SF

Size: 6'5", 212 lbs

Age/Year: 23, Senior

Nationality: Swedish

Pro comparison: Christian Braun

Pelle Larsson's impressive frame and versatility stood out more than his scoring in Chicago. His game feels very adaptable to the next level, even if he's missing one speciality skill. Teams should see a high-floor second-round pick who can make plays out of pick-and-rolls, threaten as a catch-and-shooter and generally make the right plays within an offense.

43. Miami Heat: Jamal Shead

Jeff Haynes/NBAE via Getty Images

May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 42

School/team: Houston

Position: PG

Size: 6'0", 201 lbs

Age: 21, Senior

Nationality: American

Pro comparison: Jevon Carter

Jamal Shead combined for 27 points and 10 assists between both combine scrimmages, delivering the signature rim pressure, defensive toughness and playmaking we saw at Houston. Questions about his height and shooting may limit the first-round interest, but there are sure be teams who see second-round value based on the likelihood that his physical driving, passing instincts and relentless ball pressure translate.

44. Houston Rockets (via Warriors): Melvin Ajinça

David Grau/Euroleague Basketball via Getty Images

May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 47

Team/nationality: Saint-Quentin

Position: SG/SF

Size: 6'7"

Age: 19

Nationality: French

Pro comparison: Evan Fournier

Melvin Ajinça missed the NBA combine for the LNB Pro A playoffs. But he's coming off one his better games, a 14-point, 12-rebound effort with four threes against ASVEL. Ajinça's shotmaking has been a draw since FIBA over the summer. Teams will be trying to decide if he's a sharp-enough shooter to compensate for his lack of creation and quickness.

45. Sacramento Kings: PJ Hall

Kamil Krzaczynski/NBAE via Getty Images

May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 48

Team: Clemson

Position: PF/C

Size: 6'8", 240 lbs

Age: 22, Senior

Nationality: American

Pro comparison: Jeremiah Robinson-Earl

PJ Hall didn't scrimmage in Chicago after participating last year. There is ultimately enough game film of the senior playing against NBA-caliber bigs from the ACC. Hall will still have to sell teams on his shooting during workouts, but he's consistently improved his range, and between his physical profile and fundamentals around the post, his post scoring feels translatable.

46. Los Angeles Clippers (via Pacers): Justin Edwards

Jacek Boczarski/Anadolu via Getty Images

May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 45

School/Team: Kentucky

Position: SF

Size: 6'6", 209 lbs

Age/Year: 20, Freshman

Nationality: American

Pro comparison: James Young

Justin Edwards hit mid-range jumpers and a step-back three in the combine's opening scrimmage before missing his outside shots and struggling on Wednesday. He isn't advanced enough in any one offensive area for teams to confidently draft him with a first-round pick. He'll remain in the second-round conversation for teams willing to bet on shotmaking improvement to complement his athleticism and defensive tools.

47. Orlando Magic: Jonathan Mogbo

Jeff Haynes/NBAE via Getty Images

May 12 Mock Draft Spot: Off the board

School/team: San Francisco

Position: PF

Size: 6'6", 217 lbs

Age: 22, Junior

Nationality: American

Pro comparison: Kenneth Faried

Jonathan Mogbo helped his stock in Chicago, showing how he can fit without a jumper at just 6'6" in socks. He plays much bigger than his measurements around the basket. But he also showed how well he can handle in the open floor and process quickly as a passer. The tools/athleticism for scoring around the basket and playmaking ability create a unique archetype that teams will find enticing in the second round.

48. San Antonio Spurs (via Lakers): AJ Johnson

Jeff Haynes/NBAE via Getty Images

May 12 Mock Draft Spot: Off the board

School/team: Illawara Hawks

Position: PG/SG

Size: 6'4", 167 lbs

Age: 19

Nationality: American

Pro comparison: Jamal Crawford

AJ Johnson's ball-handling and shiftiness, passing reads, athleticism at the rim and shooting range popped at the NBA combine. His on-ball creation, scoring and playmaking flashes looked enticing for a 6'4" (in socks) 19-year-old with a 6'8" wingspan.

He'll spend next season in the G League at just 167 pounds and coming off limited minutes in Australia.

49. Indiana Pacers (via Cavaliers): Jaxson Robinson

Jeff Haynes/NBAE via Getty Images

May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 46

Team: BYU

Position: SF

Size: 6'5", 189 lbs

Age: 21, Senior

Nationality: American

Pro comparison: Julian Champagnie

Teams are still wondering about Jaxson Robinson's status for the draft with former head coach Mark Pope now coaching Kentucky. While his scoring and shooting results were mixed at the combine, he was still able to showcase his picturesque stroke.

Measuring under 6'5" in socks was disappointing, however, particularly given his athletic limitations. He'll be a second-round name if he stays in the draft for teams willing to bet on a shotmaking specialist.

50. Indiana Pacers (via Pelicans): Ajay Mitchell

Jeff Haynes/NBAE via Getty Images

May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 39

School/team: UC Santa Barbara

Position: PG

Size: 6'3", 187 lbs

Age: 21, Junior

Nationality: Belgian

Pro comparison: Andrew Nembhard

The most impressive plays at the combine from Ajay Mitchell highlighted his playmaking, which was good to see considering he's more known for scoring. Scouts still have too many questions about his shooting and quickness/burst to give a first-round grade. But he should be on plenty of second-round boards from teams that could use another ball-handler and extra creation.

51. Washington Wizards (via Suns): Payton Sandfort

Jeff Haynes/NBAE via Getty Images

May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 37

School/team: Iowa

Position: SF

Size: 6'6", 212 lbs

Age: 21, Junior

Nationality: American

Pro comparison: Johnny Juzang

An underwhelming combine shouldn't negate Payton Sandfort's shotmaking production or the draw to advanced shooting versatility for plug-and-play, off-ball scoring. His poor athletic-testing results also didn't surprise anyone. Sandfort should still be a second-round target for teams interested in adding more shooting.

52. Golden State Warriors (via Bucks): Tristen Newton

Kamil Krzaczynski/NBAE via Getty Images

May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 52

School/team: Connecticut

Position: PG

Size: 6'3", 192 lbs

Age: 23, Senior

Nationality: American

Pro comparison: Terance Mann

Tristen Newton surprised scouts when he opted to skip scrimmaging. Teams should ultimately have a confident feel for the 23-year-old's game, which played a key role during Connecticut's repeat championships.

Newton should draw second-round interest and two-way offers from teams who see a Swiss Army knife guard who can make plays for teammates, knock down shots and adapt to different roles and situations.

53. Detroit Pistons (via Knicks): Antonio Reeves

Jeff Haynes/NBAE via Getty Images

May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 55

School/Team: Kentucky

Position: SG

Size: 6'5", 187 lbs

Age/Year: 23, Senior

Nationality: American

Pro comparison: Alec Burks

Antonio Reeves looked like the same scoring weapon during scrimmages that he was at Kentucky. He's clearly one of the class' top shotmakers who also has a good feel for how to get himself those catch-and-shoot, pull-up and floater chances within an offense's flow.

Age and athletic limitations won't feel alarming enough for teams to keep passing on him in the second round.

54. Boston Celtics (via Mavericks): Nikola Djurisic

Jeff Haynes/NBAE via Getty Images

May 12 Mock Draft Spot: Off the board

School/team: Mega MIS

Position: SF

Size: 6'7", 209 lbs

Age: 20

Nationality: Belgian/Serbian

Pro comparison: Tobias Harris

Nikola Djurisic had been putting up big numbers overseas, but it was more comforting for teams to see his scoring versatility come alive against projected second-round picks at the combine. He converted jumpers, finishes and passes in a variety of ways while playing with some visible confidence.

55. Los Angeles Lakers (via Clippers): Coleman Hawkins

Jeff Haynes/NBAE via Getty Images

May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 54

School/team: Illinois

Position: PF

Size: 6'8", 215 lbs

Age: 22, Senior

Nationality: American

Pro comparison: Georges Niang

On Wednesday, Coleman Hawkins showcased the shooting range and passing that make for such an intriguing combination for a power forward. Questions about his consistency or decision-making won't matter as much in the second round. He'll look like a gamble worth taking for certain teams that value the stretch-4 playmaker archetype.

56. Denver Nuggets (via Timberwolves): Enrique Freeman

Jeff Haynes/NBAE via Getty Images

May 12 Mock Draft Spot: Off the board

School/team: Akron

Position: PF

Size: 6'7", 212 lbs

Age: 23

Nationality: American

Pro comparison: Joel Bolomboy

The biggest riser of the predraft process so far, Enrique Freeman turned his Portsmouth Invitational play into a G League Elite Camp invite, where he earned a callup to the NBA combine. He wound up being one of the most productive players during scrimmages against projected second-round picks, impressing with his shooting range, post skill, finishing activity and rebounding.

Scouts believe he got himself drafted in Chicago. There will be a second-round team that's willing to bet on his versatility, production at Akron and the story of a former walk-on.

57. Memphis Grizzlies (via Thunder): Oso Ighodaro

Kamil Krzaczynski/NBAE via Getty Images

May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 53

Team: Marquette

Position: PF/C

Size: 6'10", 222 lbs

Age/Year: 21, Senior

Nationality: American

Pro Comparison: Brandon Clarke

On a positive note, Oso Ighodaro tied for the highest standing vertical at the combine (35") and was able to showcase the handle and passing that separates him from bigs. But he also measured just a 6'11" wingspan, easily the shortest among projected centers.

No shooting range and questionable tools for rim protection could raise some red flags. However, teams could see a place for his playmaking, signature touch shots and play-finishing from his position.

58. Dallas Mavericks (via Celtics): Jalen Bridges

Jeff Haynes/NBAE via Getty Images

May 12 Mock Draft Spot: No. 51

School/team: Baylor

Position: SF/PF

Size: 6'7", 213 lbs

Age: 23, Senior

Nationality: American

Pro comparison: Dorian Finney-Smith

Jalen Bridges had some encouraging stretches of shotmaking during scrimmages to follow up a breakout shooting season at Baylor. His measurements likely didn't help, considering Baylor listed him at 6'9", 225 pounds, and he came in under 6'7" in socks.

Midway through the second round, teams could start thinking about the idea of an adaptable, three-and-D wing who can guard both forward spots.

   

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