Consensus Mock Draft: Alexandre Sarr Holds Steady at No. 1
Alexandre Sarr continues to hold the top spot in the 2024 NBA Draft. Playing for the Perth Wildcats in Australia, Sarr is a favorite due to his defensive impact and growing offensive role. His status as the potential No. 1 overall pick remains strong despite close competition from fellow Frenchman Zaccharie Risacher.
Alexandre Sarr’s Competition at the Top
The draft combine has intensified the race for the No. 1 pick. Alexandre Sarr and Risacher are now in a 4-4 split decision among eight updated mock drafts. Sarr fills the second slot when not the first, whereas Risacher shows some variance. ESPN’s latest update places Sarr at No. 1 for the Atlanta Hawks, while Risacher often appears as the top pick.
Tidjane Salaun’s Ascent
Tidjane Salaun, another French prospect, has surged into the Top 5. His perceived upside has increased his stock, reaching as high as No. 5 overall. Salaun’s rise highlights the growing influence of international players in the draft.
Nikola Topic’s Injury Concerns
Serbian prospect Nikola Topic has dropped due to a knee injury. Initially a clear third pick, Topic’s partial ACL tear has lowered his rank to the middle of the pack, sitting at seventh in the consensus. This injury has opened opportunities for other players to climb.
Reed Sheppard’s Rise
Reed Sheppard has become a solid candidate for the third pick, appearing consistently in the top four of most mock drafts. His sharpshooting and standout performance as a freshman at Kentucky have bolstered his draft position, making him a significant contender.
Providence guard Devin Carter has entered the lottery, replacing Isaiah Collier. Carter’s ascendance reflects his improving draft stock. In contrast, Robert Dillingham and Cody Williams have slid out of the lottery in at least one draft, indicating some variability in their projections.
Top Consensus Picks
- Alexandre Sarr | Atlanta Hawks
- Perth Wildcats (Australia) | Position: F/C | Height: 7-1
- An impact player on defense with a growing offensive role.
- Zaccharie Risacher | Washington Wizards
- JL Bourg-en-Bresse (France) | Position: G/F | Height: 6-8
- A high-potential two-way player with a high ceiling.
- Reed Sheppard | Houston Rockets
- Kentucky | Position: G | Height: 6-3
- A sharpshooting freshman who has risen rapidly on draft boards.
- Donovan Clingan | San Antonio Spurs
- Connecticut | Position: C | Height: 7-2
- A defensive anchor with offensive potential.
- Stephon Castle | Detroit Pistons
- Connecticut | Position: G | Height: 6-6
- A versatile player who can impact both ends of the floor.
Most Common Lottery Picks
- No. 1 (Hawks): Zaccharie Risacher (4), Alex Sarr (4)
- No. 2 (Wizards): Alexandre Sarr (4)
- No. 3 (Rockets): Reed Sheppard (4)
- No. 4 (Spurs): Nikola Topic (3)
- No. 5 (Pistons): Matas Buzelis (3)
- No. 6 (Hornets): Stephon Castle (3)
- No. 7 (Trail Blazers): Donovan Clingan (4)
- No. 8 (Spurs): Nikola Topic (3)
- No. 9 (Grizzlies): Dalton Knecht (3)
- No. 10 (Jazz): Robert Dillingham, Ron Holland, Cody Williams (2)
These projections will likely shift as the draft approaches, reflecting team needs and player performances. The intense competition at the top ensures an exciting lead-up to the 2024 NBA Draft.