The 2024 NBA Draft presented by State Farm will take place on June 26th (8 ET) & June 27th (4 ET). While we will never know the exact selection until the day of the draft, we have a strong idea of which of the most talented prospects including Alexandre Sarr and Zaccharie Risacher will be taken in the first round of the playoffs and where their dream destinations would be. We have ranked the selections based on where we predict they will land but only mention where each player’s dream destination would be.
- 1. Alexandre Sarr – Atlanta Hawks
- 2. Zaccharie Risacher – Washington Wizards
- 3. Reed Sheppard – San Antonio Spurs
- 4. Donovan Clingan – Detroit Pistons
- 5. Stephon Castle – Memphis Grizzlies
- 6. Matas Buzelis – Houston Rockets
- 7. Nikola Topic – San Antonio Spurs
- 8. Dalton Knecht – Oklahoma City Thunder
- 9. Tidjane Salaun – Portland Trail Blazers
- 10. Robert Dillingham – Chicago Bulls
- 11. Ron Holland – Oklahoma City Thunder
- 12. Cody Williams – Oklahoma City Thunder
- 13. Devin Carter – Washington Wizards
- 14. Ja’Kobe Walter – Sacramento Kings
1. Alexandre Sarr – Atlanta Hawks
2023-24 Statistics (Perth Wildcats): 9.7 PPG, 4.4 RPG, 0.9 APG, 0.5 SPG, 1.3 BPG
Alexandre Sarr, a standout for the Perth Wildcats, is making waves with his defensive prowess and emerging offensive skills. Averaging 9.7 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game in college, Sarr is projected to be the No. 1 pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. That means the Atlanta Hawks stand out as the dream destination for Sarr.
With the potential to take over the starting role from Clint Capela, Sarr could flourish in Atlanta, especially with Trae Young feeding him lobs. The Hawks, looking to revitalize their roster after multiple disappointing seasons since their 2021 Eastern Conference Finals appearance, could greatly benefit from Sarr’s talents.
The Hawks offer a promising environment for Sarr to develop into a star. With a team that desperately needs a spark, Sarr would have ample opportunities to showcase his skills and grow into a larger role. His defensive abilities would be a significant asset to the Hawks, who have struggled on that end of the floor after ranking only 28th in defense last year by giving up 120.5 points per game.
2. Zaccharie Risacher – Washington Wizards
2023-24 Statistics (Mincidelice JL Bourg): 11.1 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 1.0 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.3 BPG
Zaccharie Risacher is a versatile forward with excellent two-way ability and a high ceiling. His all-around skills make him an attractive prospect, and the Washington Wizards appear to be the ideal team for him. With the potential departures of Kyle Kuzma and Jordan Poole, the Wizards could provide Risacher with the opportunity to become their primary star.
This scenario would allow him to showcase his talents and potentially emerge as a frontrunner for the Rookie of the Year award by putting up impressive stats. For Risacher, joining the Wizards means stepping into a leadership role early in his career. The team’s potential rebuild could revolve around his development, giving him the chance to be the focal point of their offense.
With his high floor and even higher ceiling, the projected top-two pick’s presence could be a game-changer for the Wizards, providing a much-needed boost and a fresh start as they aim to climb back into playoff contention and grow without much long-term talent around.
3. Reed Sheppard – San Antonio Spurs
2023-24 Statistics (Kentucky Wildcats): 12.5 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 4.5 APG, 2.5 SPG, 0.7 BPG
Reed Sheppard, a sharpshooting freshman from Kentucky, has quickly ascended the draft boards with his impressive play. Averaging 12.5 points, 4.1 rebounds, 4.5 assists, and 2.5 steals per game for the Wildcats, Sheppard’s all-around game makes him a perfect fit for the San Antonio Spurs.
The Spurs, known for their long-term development approach, would benefit greatly from Sheppard’s shooting and versatility. Playing alongside Victor Wembanyama, Sheppard could help the Spurs continue to build a talented and cohesive roster for the future. In San Antonio, Sheppard would find an environment conducive to his growth as a player.
The Spurs’ emphasis on player development and team-oriented basketball aligns perfectly with Sheppard’s skill set. His ability to contribute on both ends of the floor would make him a valuable asset for the Spurs, who are looking to build around their young core. Sheppard’s dream of playing alongside Wembanyama could become a legitimate reality.
4. Donovan Clingan – Detroit Pistons
2023-24 Statistics (UConn Huskies): 13.0 PPG, 7.4 RPG, 1.5 APG, 0.5 SPG, 2.5 BPG
Donovan Clingan, a force for the UConn Huskies, has established himself as a defensive anchor and a steady presence on the court. With averages of 13.0 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks per game, Clingan’s impact on the defensive end is undeniable. The Detroit Pistons, coming off a dismal 16-win season, could greatly benefit from Clingan’s talents.
As a team in need of a reliable center, Clingan could step into a starting role and provide the stability the Pistons have been lacking. Pairing Clingan with Cade Cunningham could be the key to the Pistons’ resurgence. Cunningham’s playmaking ability and Clingan’s defensive presence would create a formidable duo, capable of leading the team to greater heights. With the opportunity to develop his offensive game and make an immediate impact, Clingan’s potential fit with the Pistons makes Detroit the ideal destination for his NBA career.
5. Stephon Castle – Memphis Grizzlies
2023-24 Statistics (UConn Huskies): 11.1 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 2.9 APG, 0.5 SPG, 0.8 BPG
Stephon Castle, a versatile player from UConn, has shown his ability to contribute in various ways on the court. Averaging 11.1 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game, Castle’s do-it-all mentality makes him a perfect fit for the Memphis Grizzlies. Known for their grit and grind style, the Grizzlies would benefit from Castle’s willingness to do whatever it takes to win.
Playing alongside Ja Morant, Desmond Bane, and Jaren Jackson Jr., Castle could become a key bench player with the potential to start in the future. In Memphis, Castle would find a team that values hard work and versatility. With a strong supporting cast and a clear path to playing time, Castle’s potential fit with the Grizzlies in terms of two-way play makes Memphis an ideal destination for him to grow and thrive in the NBA.
6. Matas Buzelis – Houston Rockets
2023-24 Statistics (G League Ignite): 11.8 PPG, 5.0 RPG, 1.7 APG, 1.1 SPG, 1.3 BPG
Matas Buzelis, a big forward from G League Ignite, has shown flashes of brilliance with his shooting touch and defensive capabilities. Averaging 11.8 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game, Buzelis’s potential to be a significant contributor is evident. The Houston Rockets, a team with a history of developing talented foreign prospects, would be an ideal destination for Buzelis.
Playing alongside Fred VanVleet, Jalen Green, and Alperen Sengun, Buzelis could provide the Rockets with the upgrade they need at the forward position. In Houston, Buzelis would have the opportunity to develop his game and contribute to a young and promising roster. The Rockets’ commitment to nurturing talent and their history of success with international players (Hakeem Olajuwon and Yao Ming) make them a perfect fit for Buzelis.
7. Nikola Topic – San Antonio Spurs
2023-24 Statistics (Mega MIS & Crvena zvezda Meridianbet): 17.9 PPG, 3.6 RPG, 6.8 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.2 BPG
Nikola Topic, a tall guard with a deft passing touch, can create opportunities for himself and others. Despite a minor ACL injury, Topic’s potential remains high, and the San Antonio Spurs would be an ideal destination for him assuming the talented guard doesn’t fall out of the top 10.
Known for their success with foreign stars like Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili, the Spurs have a track record of developing international talent. Playing alongside Victor Wembanyama, Topic could form a dynamic duo and elevate his game. With the Spurs, Topic would find a supportive environment that values player development and teamwork.
His passing ability and court vision would make him a valuable asset for the Spurs, who are looking to build around their young core. With the opportunity to learn from one of the best player development systems in the NBA under Gregg Popovich, Topic’s potential fit with the Spurs makes San Antonio the perfect destination for his career.
8. Dalton Knecht – Oklahoma City Thunder
2023-24 Statistics (Tennessee Volunteers): 21.7 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 1.8 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.6 BPG
Dalton Knecht, a scoring machine for the Tennessee Volunteers, has shown his ability to put up points in various ways. Averaging 21.7 points per game, Knecht’s shooting prowess and scoring versatility make him an attractive prospect for the Oklahoma City Thunder. Joining a team stacked with talent, Knecht could fight for a starting role alongside Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Lu Dort, Jalen Williams, and Chet Holmgren.
The Thunder’s title-contending aspirations make them an ideal destination for Knecht. He would have the opportunity to develop his game and contribute to a promising roster. With his scoring ability and potential to make an immediate impact, Knecht could help be a difference-maker in the 2024-25 season.
9. Tidjane Salaun – Portland Trail Blazers
2023-24 Statistics (Cholet Basket): 9.0 PPG, 4.0 RPG, 1.0 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.2 BPG
Tidjane Salaun, a raw but promising French prospect, has shown his potential as a rangy, switchable defender. Averaging 9.0 points and 4.0 rebounds per game, Salaun’s strong off-ball instincts and developing shot from range make him an intriguing prospect for the Portland Trail Blazers. With plenty of room to grow, Salaun could benefit from playing alongside Scoot Henderson, Anfernee Simons, and Deandre Ayton, providing the Blazers with a long-term starter.
In Portland, Salaun would have the opportunity to develop his game and contribute to a team in need of defensive versatility. The Trail Blazers’ commitment to rebuilding and their focus on developing young talent make them an ideal destination for Salaun. With the chance to grow alongside a promising core, Salaun would relish the chance to prove his worth in Portland.
10. Robert Dillingham – Chicago Bulls
2023-24 Statistics (Kentucky Wildcats): 15.2 PPG, 2.9 RPG, 3.9 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.1 BPG
Dillingham, a certified bucket from Kentucky, has shown his scoring ability and playmaking potential. Averaging 15.2 points and 3.9 assists per game, Dillingham’s shooting and offensive skills make him an attractive prospect for the Chicago Bulls. Joining a big market team like the Bulls, Dillingham could become the face of the franchise.
With Coby White already in place, Dillingham could form a dynamic backcourt alongside Zach LaVine as DeMar DeRozan’s time in Chicago winds down. The Bulls’ need for a young and dynamic playmaker provides the perfect environment for Dillingham to thrive with the chance to grow into a leading role and contribute to a storied franchise.
11. Ron Holland – Oklahoma City Thunder
2023-24 Statistics (G League Ignite): 18.5 PPG, 6.7 RPG, 2.8 APG, 2.1 SPG, 1.1 BPG
An athletic and explosive swingman, Ron Holland has shown his ability to hold his own against tough competition. Averaging 18.5 points and 6.7 rebounds per game, Holland’s potential to put up numbers and contribute on both ends of the floor makes him an attractive prospect for the Oklahoma City Thunder.
With the chance to play alongside other talented athletes including superstar Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren, Holland would probably see the most growth on a title-contending roster who love to run up and down the court. Holland also needs a place to help him learn the ropes as a shooter and low-turnover player, taking examples from a young Russell Westbrook.
12. Cody Williams – Oklahoma City Thunder
2023-24 Statistics (Colorado Buffaloes): 11.9 PPG, 3.0 RPG, 1.6 APG, 0.6 SPG, 0.7 BPG
Cody Williams, a versatile player from Colorado and the brother of Oklahoma City Thunder’s budding star Jalen Williams has shown his ability to fit into various styles of play. Averaging 11.9 points and 3.0 rebounds per game, Williams’s game and physique make him an intriguing prospect for the Oklahoma City Thunder.
With the opportunity to play alongside his brother Jalen and follow in his footsteps, Cody Williams could thrive in Oklahoma City. The Thunder’s focus on building a cohesive and talented roster provides the perfect environment for Williams to grow and contribute while the stars lead the way and look to go for the 2024-25 NBA championship.
13. Devin Carter – Washington Wizards
2023-24 Statistics (Providence Friars): 19.7 PPG, 8.7 RPG, 3.6 APG, 1.8 SPG, 1.0 BPG
Devin Carter, a standout from Providence Friars, has shown his defensive capabilities and offensive potential. Averaging 19.7 points and 8.7 rebounds per game, Carter’s ‘3-and-D’ mold and ability to develop as a leading man make him an attractive prospect for the Washington Wizards.
With the potential to be a go-to player for the Wizards, Carter could thrive in the nation’s capital and make an immediate impact. The Wizards’ need for a dynamic guard provides the perfect opportunity for Carter to showcase his talents and take on a leading role if and when Jordan Poole does leave the team.
14. Ja’Kobe Walter – Sacramento Kings
2023-24 Statistics (Baylor Bears): 14.5 PPG, 4.4 RPG, 1.4 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.2 BPG
Baylor’s Ja’Kobe Walter has shown he can contribute on both ends of the floor. Averaging 14.5 points and 4.4 rebounds per game, Walter’s potential to be a starter for the right team makes him an attractive prospect for the Sacramento Kings. Playing alongside De’Aaron Fox, Keegan Murray, and Domantas Sabonis, Walter could provide the Kings with a boost and help them continue their upward trajectory.
In Sacramento, Walter would have the opportunity to develop his game and make a significant impact as the team looks to return to the playoffs. Running alongside Fox and Sabonis while living in a major destination like California could make playing with the Kings an intriguing option for the 19-year-old from Texas.
