After the NBA playoffs, the draft is the most exciting time in the NBA season. We’ve compiled our most likely first pick this year and each team’s potential play selection.
Who Is Most Likely to Get First Pick in NBA Draft 2024?
While stats can change between now and the draft, these are currently the most likely first five picks.
1. Washington Wizards
The Wizards have the worst form in the NBA, with a record of 11-54. It puts them in a prime position for the first pick in the draft. The main issue for the Wizards is the lack of strength in their roster. Almost any pick is likely to improve their squad. As a result, we think French 18-year-old Alexandre Sarr will appeal to their management.
Standing at 7’1, he has excellent ball handling and decision-making for his age. Although coming from the NBL, a weaker standard than the NCAA, his age and size make him a high-potential pick. The poor quality of the Wizards roster means he is someone who can come in as a starter and be a young player to build the franchise around.
2. Detroit Pistons
The Pistons’ record is almost as bad as the Wizards’, 11-53. So, if their form is terrible enough, they’re likely to be a contender for the first pick and could grab the overall top choice. The franchise has shown interest in Zaccharie Risacher, who stands at 6’8 and is just 18.
His ability around the rim shines through, and he is highly appealing to the Pistons, who have plenty of playmakers on the roster. His ability to finish plays is what can turn the Pistons fortunes around.
3. San Antonio Spurs
A 14-52 record means the Spurs are unlikely to get the overall first pick but will still be early in the draft. The Spurs are struggling for playmakers, so they can’t get the most out of their wide shooters. Struggling for creativity makes Nikola Topić one of the top draft picks for the 2024 NBA.
Although he’s currently injured, Topić led his league in assists before getting hurt, showing that he’s exactly what the Spurs need. Standing at 6’6, he’s likely to be able to handle the physicality of the NBA without too much acclimatization time.
4. Charlotte Hornets
The Hornets have a 16-49 record, so a top-five pick is likely. Right now, the Hornets have the core of an excellent team, but they need to add to it with more energy near the basket. Ron Holland is an excellent choice for this.
After choosing to bypass college basketball, Holland has spent a year playing in the G League. Formerly a five-star pick, Holland hasn’t advanced how he expected, giving the Hornets a chance to pick him up, even if they don’t get the first overall choice.
5. Portland Trail Blazers
At 18-46, the Trail Blazers have a poor record, so they will get an early selection. Their lack of explosiveness when attacking means they will look for a physical presence come draft time.
An excellent option for this is Matas Buzelis. Physically larger than Ron Holland, he’s a more likely choice for Portland as they look to beef up their attacking options.
Is 2024 a Good NBA Draft Year?
To be completely blunt, no, it’s not. There are no standout players in the 2024 class who look like becoming superstars. Many teams will look to protect their picks, either through trades or upgrades on weaker players on their rosters.
That’s not to say all draft picks are poor; there’s just no-one on the level of Zion Williamson to give a recent example. You can still make your potential draft predictions at Sportzino in our basketball section, even if your favorite team doesn’t get that new center it desperately needs.
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