Aggregate 2024 NBA Mock Draft: Post Combine Intel; Bronny James to Lakers? (2024)

(Perth Wildcats: Center, International, 7-1)

Previous rank: 1 (-) / Best rank: 1 / Worst rank: 2

Alex Sarr was nearly the unanimous No. 1 overall pick in the HoopsHype aggregate mock draft, with only Bleacher Report predicting the Atlanta Hawks would take Zaccharie Risacher.

The 7-foot-1 Frenchman intrigues NBA executives with his athleticism as a shot blocker and switchable defender, the coordination to push the ball in transition, and can draw enough attention as a shooter to spread the floor beyond the arc as he works to become a more consistent threat.

Sarr believes he’s the best player in the draft and publicly made it clear he wants to be the No. 1 pick.

“I want to be first in everything,” Sarr said. “I don’t know if it’s that important because I can’t control it, but of course it means something.”

With less than a month to go before the draft, Atlanta is working through all possible scenarios, including selecting Sarr or Risacher, whom the Hawks immediately flew overseas to watch after the lottery with general manager Landry Fields, assistant general manager Kyle Korver, and head coach Quin Snyder on hand.

Following the combine and pro day events for several agencies, there remains a belief around the league that Atlanta will break up the backcourt pairing of Trae Young and Dejounte Murray. Several executives who spoke with HoopsHype say they value Murray over Young due to his contract length and average annual salary.

Should the Hawks select Sarr, center Clint Capela – who will be in the final year of his contract worth $22.27 million – is expected to be discussed in trade talks. Hawks forward De’Andre Hunter was another name rival executives expected to become available for Atlanta as the draft nears.

More: Alex Sarr: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(JL Bourg-en-Bresse: Wing, International, 6-8)

Previous rank: 2 (-) / Best rank: 1 / Worst rank: 7

The Washington Wizards expect to choose between French prospects Alex Sarr and Zaccharie Risacher with the No. 2 overall pick, league sources told HoopsHype.

Sarr and Risacher offer positional size and are familiar with recent Wizards lottery pick and fellow Frenchman Bilal Coulibaly.

Risacher’s 3-and-D upside can complement Coulibaly and any players Washington drafts in the future, with the roster expected to undergo significant changes in the years to come.

Adding a French prospect isn’t the only item on Washington’s to-do list at the draft. The Wizards will continue to look for an additional first-round pick to add to their current No. 2 and 26 picks, as previously reported on HoopsHype.

Washington is focused on building through the draft, with an eye toward the highly regarded 2025 draft and developing long-term sustainable success. It’s one reason why interim coach Brian Keefe is considered the heavy favorite to return as head coach next season, league sources say, given his reputation for developing players at all his stops across the league as an assistant coach and familiarity with Wizards management.

Washington would also like to retain free agent point guard Tyus Jones, sources told HoopsHype, but the Wizards are expected to have competition for his services this summer. After becoming a full-time starter for the first time, Jones averaged career-highs in points (12.0), assists (7.3), field goal percentage (.489), three-point percentage (.414), and minutes (29.3).

Lastly, following a near trade of Kyle Kuzma to Dallas at the trade deadline, rival executives are expected to circle back with Washington on Kuzma’s availability in the coming weeks.

More: Zaccharie Risacher: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(UConn: Center, Sophom*ore, 7-2)

Previous rank: 6 (+3) / Best rank: 2 / Worst rank: 9

The Houston Rockets are transitioning to a win-now mode and looking to take the next step to become a playoff team after significant progress from their young core under coach Ime Udoka.

The No. 3 pick – one of five potential first-round picks the Rockets can trade this offseason in a package to land a star player – will be discussed in trade talks leading up to draft night, league sources told HoopsHype.

It’s worth noting the Rockets have already been linked as a potential suitor for Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell and previously tried to acquire Brooklyn Nets swingman Mikal Bridges at the trade deadline.

While Houston may select Donovan Clingan, as the aggregate mock poll shows, it could be for another team.

When asked if he could form a potential tandem with Rockets center Alperen Sengun, Clingan replied, “I feel like I can be able to step out behind the three-point line and knock down threes to be able to go out there and pair up with another big at the same time. If it’s inside and out, I can play in the post. I can pass on the three-point line, I can pass all over, find open guys, and be able to knock down three-pointers.”

However, it’s hard to imagine a world where Sengun and Clingan play together when they occupy the same position and would get potentially exposed on the perimeter in pick-and-roll switches guarding quicker perimeter players.

It’s worth noting Sengun and Clingan are also both represented by NBA agent Sean Kennedy of Excel Sports Management.

As for Clingan, a back-to-back UConn champion and one of the top shot blockers and rebounders in the draft, the biggest question he’ll be able to answer in upcoming workouts is whether he can effectively space the floor.

When asked by HoopsHype if there’s a misconception about his game, Clingan replied, “I’m trying to show people that I’ve been working on my game and getting better. I’m really trying to work on stepping behind the three-point line and get more threes up.”

Should Houston keep the pick, the Rockets could select from several guards, including former Kentucky teammates Reed Sheppard and Rob Dillingham, Nikola Topic, and Stephon Castle. Or, Houston could select Matas Buzelis, who can play both forward positions.

More: Donovan Clingan: NBA Draft scouting report and intel

(KK Crvena Zvezda: Guard, International, 6-6)

Previous rank: 5 (+1) / Best rank: 2 / Worst rank: 7

There’s a strong belief around the league that San Antonio will look to upgrade at point guard this summer, and the Spurs will have plenty of potential options with the fourth pick.

Nikola Topic has good positional size and strength to finish around the rim and excels as a playmaker in pick-and-rolls with his court vision and IQ. Topic is an inconsistent three-point shooter, is an average athlete, and is not a natural shot creator for himself.

Kentucky guards Reed Sheppard and Rob Dillingham would offer more offensive punch as consistent shooters beyond the arc, more athleticism in Dillingham’s case, and more defense in Sheppard’s case with his active hands.

More: Nikola Topic: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Ignite: Wing, G League, 6-10)

Previous rank: 3 (-2) / Best rank: 3 / Worst rank: 11

New Pistons President of Basketball Operations Trajan Langdon will have about a month to figure out what he’ll do with Detroit’s fifth overall pick.

Half of the 10 mock drafts polled believe Detroit will land G League Ignite prospect Matas Buzelis fifth overall.

With a glut of backcourt options on the current roster and Jalen Duren currently entrenched at center, Buzelis would offer a secondary playmaker who handles the ball well for his size, moves fluidly, and is a shot-blocking presence in the paint with the ability to play either forward spot.

For a full breakdown of the offseason ahead for the Pistons, including potential trades, free agent targets, and more draft prospects of interest, check out this recent HoopsHype podcast episode with The Athletic’s beat reporter James Edwards by clicking here.

More: Matas Buzelis: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(UConn: Guard, Freshman, 6-6)

Previous rank: 8 (+2) / Best rank: 2 / Worst rank: 10

UConn national champion Stephon Castle is avoiding draft workouts with teams that have starting point guards, per a recent ESPN report.

Such a stance would logically mean Castle will try to avoid Charlotte, which already has LaMelo Ball as the point guard of the future.

When asked by HoopsHype for his scouting report on himself, Castle replied, “I’d say I’m more of a two-way kind of point guard. I really like to pass the ball, and I like to shoot off the dribble a lot. There’s a lot I haven’t been able to showcase the past couple of months (at UConn), but that’s what my game consists of with me being on the ball, getting my teammates involved, scoring whenever I need to, and defending at a high level.”

When HoopsHype followed by asking who he’d compare himself to, Castle replied, “Jrue Holiday.”

Castle’s stout on-the-ball defense and strength could make him a ferocious defensive guard at the NBA level. His frame helps him rebound well for a guard, get downhill off the dribble, and make a play for his teammates when defenses collapse.

“There aren’t too many guards out there that want to guard the ball the way he does,” Castle’s UConn teammate Donovan Clingan said. “He doesn’t care if he scores zero points. His mission is to stop the best player from scoring. I feel like he has a lot more to his offensive game to show. He can get to the rim at a high level. He’s very explosive. He’s been in the gym working on shooting the ball. I feel like he’s going to have a great career.”

As Clingan alluded to, NBA executives believe Castle’s three-point shot is his biggest weakness, but he helped himself by shooting the ball well in non-stationary shooting drills at the combine.

More: Stephon Castle: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Kentucky: Guard, Freshman, 6-3)

Previous rank: 7 (-) / Best rank: 3 / Worst rank: 9

Scoot Henderson is the point guard of the future, while Shaedon Sharpe is still in the early stages of his rookie contract and is considered a potential All-Star talent by some Blazers staffers if he hits his ceiling.

With Anfernee Simons and Deandre Ayton signed for two more seasons and Jerami Grant signed for the foreseeable future, this is one of the most unpredictable draft slots on the board.

While Reed Sheppard came out as the No. 7 pick to Portland when crunching the aggregate mock draft poll numbers, his fit isn’t ideal on paper.

Overall, however, there’s a lot to like about his game. Sheppard is an elite three-point shooter (52.1 percent), has active hands on defense (2.5 steals), can be a primary playmaker (4.5 assists), and is an underrated athlete who tied for the highest max vertical leap at 42 inches at the combine.

“I can see Sheppard as a Monte Morris type of player who’s a solid backup guard because he won’t make mistakes, and he’ll make shots,” a veteran NBA executive told HoopsHype. “I worry about him because he’s a little small. Coaches will love him.”

More: Reed Sheppard: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Kentucky: Guard, Freshman, 6-2)

Previous rank: 4 (-4) / Best rank: 3 / Worst rank: 10

Several NBA executives believe Rob Dillingham is a combo scoring guard who can win a team a quarter if he gets hot in the mold of former three-time Sixth Man of the Year Lou Williams.

Dillingham, however, focused on his leadership qualities and facilitating for others when talking about his scouting report of his game.

“I feel like I uplift my teammates,” Dillingham said at the combine. “I bring confidence to the team, whether it’s in the game or before the game. I try to always boost my guys. Then, playmaking. I feel like I’m a great playmaker, scorer, and knockdown shooter. My defense lacks at times, but I feel like when I give effort and know the game plan, I really know what to do. Sometimes, I don’t know the game plan, and it gets me off. When I actually know the game plan, I’m a great defender when it comes to being on the ball and terrorizing.”

While most talent evaluators focus on Dillingham’s scoring, efficiency as a three-point shooter, and need to significantly improve defensively, the former Kentucky guard believes he’s more of a student of the game than given credit for, noting his IQ is an underrated part of his game.

“I feel like I’ve been playing for so long that, while I don’t know everything, it’s just knowing and feeling the spots of where to be on the floor,” Dillingham said. “I know where people are going to be when they’re playing certain coverages. If I’m coming off a screen and roll, I know that help has to come over.”

Should Dillingham land in San Antonio as projected, he’d take attention off Victor Wembanyama on the offensive end and benefit from having the Defensive Player of the Year finalist make up for his defensive deficiencies on the perimeter at times.

More: Rob Dillingham: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Ignite: Wing, G League, 6-8)

Previous rank: 9 (-) / Best rank: 2 / Worst rank: 16

The Memphis Grizzlies are looking to add at least one frontcourt rotation player to their roster next season alongside Jaren Jackson Jr. Before the lottery, there was a decent chance Donovan Clingan would’ve been a perfect draft fit, but he’s likely too far out of their range after the team fell two spots. If he unexpectedly falls to the ninth pick, Memphis would likely snatch him.

Two-time National Player of the Year Zach Edey also said he met with the Grizzlies, and they like him, but picking Edey here seems a bit too high, so enter Ron Holland, a throwback “Grit and Grind” player with a high motor and strong defender.

After being projected as the No. 1 overall pick in our September aggregate mock draft poll, HoopsHype asked Holland what he feels about his current projection closer to the 10th overall range.

“My mentality has never changed,” Holland replied. “I definitely still feel like I’m the No. 1 draft pick in this class. I’m definitely ready to compete against anybody. I know every night with Ignite, I stayed ready, I was able to compete, show the best of my abilities, and I feel like I showed up every night.”

Whether Holland ends up on the Grizzlies or another team, he believes he can make an immediate impact as a rookie when asked what he can bring.

“My energy,” Holland said. “That’s one thing about me that people always talk about the way I light up a dark room, the way I walk in the gym, and people know I’m in there and bringing joy to the court. My willingness to win and my competitiveness. I’m always turning anything competitive, whether it’s free throws, shooting drills, running, conditioning, or anything like that. If I’m competing, it’s going to make others want to compete, and we’ll all be getting better together and pushing each other to exhaustion.”

MORE: Ron Holland: ‘I feel like I’m the one that stands out because of my motor’

More: Ron Holland: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Tennessee: Guard, Senior, 6-6)

Previous rank: 11 (+1) / Best rank: 5 / Worst rank: 13

After falling two picks in the lottery, Utah Jazz executive Danny Ainge has three first-round draft picks (10, 29, 32) and a treasure chest more in the years to come as trade assets to dangle in trade talks to add more talent that can help the team improve sooner than later, ideally.

Utah is expected to explore trading the No. 10 overall pick and the other first-rounders this year, league sources told HoopsHype. There’s a belief from some around the league that Utah’s owner, Ryan Smith, would like to add more star talent to the Jazz, and Ainge has aggressively monitored the trade market.

Should Utah not find a worthwhile trade or multiple trades with the picks, Tennessee’s Dalton Knecht, the reigning SEC Player of the Year, can add floor spacing and is ready to contribute immediately at 23.

“I’m a guy that could go out there and produce right away,” Knecht told HoopsHype’s Cyro Asseo. “I can shoot the ball pretty well. That would be my biggest selling point, being a guy that can go in and contribute.”

While conducting his media availability at the combine, HoopsHype asked Knecht who he’d compare his game to, and his answer was interesting.

“I’d say I play a similar game to – not at his star level – Devin Booker,” Knecht replied. “Throughout college, I think I played like him. I don’t know, just not as good as him.”

The other items on Utah’s offseason agenda are discussing a potential renegotiation and extension with Lauri Markkanen and potentially exploring the trade market for forward John Collins, who has two years, $53.16 million remaining if he exercises his player option for the 2025-26 season.

More: Dalton Knecht: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Colorado: Wing, Freshman, 6-8)

Previous rank: 10 (-1) / Best rank: 7 / Worst rank: 13

Some NBA executives believe Cody Williams has the highest floor of any player in the draft, which some are valuing closer to the top of the lottery and others around the 10th pick or so, depending on their needs.

Williams discussed what skills he believes will translate heading into his rookie season.

“My shooting. I definitely made strides this summer in my consistency,” Williams said at the combine. “I know I could shoot it, but getting more consistent by being able to get more reps. In Santa Barbara, I get 800, 900 shots up, and at least 500 makes a day. If you do that over a few years, I’m going to become an elite-level shooter. Defensively, I translate really well. My versatility. I want to be an elite-level defender. I’m going to make it happen no matter what. That’s my main focus. You can’t teach size, so I feel like my versatility will translate to the next level no matter what.”

Landing Williams – a versatile forward who moves well with strong positional size, good finishing ability around the rim, a soft jumper, and can defend several positions on the ball – would be a great value here for Chicago, especially with DeMar DeRozan entering unrestricted free agency.

As previously reported on HoopsHype following the lottery, there’s a belief around the league that DeRozan will ultimately re-sign with the Bulls, given the team’s continued desire to compete, his role, and Chicago’s willingness to pay him.

However, one team worth monitoring as a potential suitor for DeRozan via sign-and-trade is the Los Angeles Clippers, should the franchise fail to re-sign Paul George in free agency, HoopsHype has learned.

George — who never received an offer higher than Kawhi Leonard’s three-year, $153 million extension — is HoopsHype’s top-ranked unrestricted free agent this summer. DeRozan is a Compton native who has continued to perform at a high level as he approaches his 35th birthday.

More: Cody Williams: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Cholet of France): Wing, International, 6-9)

Previous rank: 14 (+2) / Best rank: 8 / Worst rank: 24

Many around the league expect the Oklahoma City Thunder to fortify its frontcourt depth this summer via the draft and free agency. Tidjane Salaun would be an upside swing for the Thunder based on his raw talent.

The French forward was voted Best Young Player of the Basketball Champions League overseas and has shown flashes of stretching the floor beyond the arc on catch-and-shoot threes and off the dribble at times.

The drawback on Salaun is he’s been an inconsistent player this season overseas, but that’s expected for an 18-year-old who won’t turn 19 until August.

Rival executives are monitoring the Thunder as a potential team in the free-agent center market this summer, with several names available, such as Nic Claxton – who can potentially command over $20 million on the market, as noted by HoopsHype – Isaiah Hartenstein, and Jonas Valanciunas, who’s not expected to return to New Orleans, as previously reported by HoopsHype.

More: Tidjane Salaun: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(USC: Guard, Freshman, 6-5)

Previous rank: 13 (-) / Best rank: 10 / Worst rank: N/R

The biggest storyline for the Sacramento Kings isn’t the upcoming draft or free agency, it’s the future of coach Mike Brown.

After winning 48 games and ending the longest NBA playoff drought with a trip to the playoffs during the 2022-23 season, and missing the playoffs despite winning 46 games this past season, the Kings and Brown have paused extension talks, per ESPN. Part of the reasoning is that Kings ownership is displeased with the failure to repeat as a playoff team, per The Kings Beat.

Following 16 years of ineptitude and no playoff appearances, Brown helped change the culture in Sacramento.

As for the draft, USC guard Isaiah Collier – the projected No. 1 pick during the January aggregate mock draft – could help solidify the backup point guard minutes behind star guard De’Aaron Fox after Davion Mitchell and Keon Ellis saw their roles fluctuate at different times last season.

Collier has an NBA physique, attacks the paint with force, gets to the foul line often, and can provide on-ball defense along the perimeter. His ability to become a better shooter from beyond the arc and the foul line, along with limiting his turnovers, will determine if he reaches his ceiling as a player.

More: Isaiah Collier: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Duke: Guard, Freshman, 6-3)

Previous rank: 16 (+2) / Best rank: 12 / Worst rank: N/R

Duke’s Jared McCain is a knockdown shooter beyond the arc (41.4 percent) and a good rebounder for his size (5.0 per game).

Several NBA executives question whether McCain can defend NBA point guards and be a primary ball handler for stretches. The most common comparison for McCain was Seth Curry.

Off the court, McCain learned to deal with adversity as a Duke freshman.

“I knew I was going to get hate, but I didn’t know it was going to get that amplified,” McCain told HoopsHype’s Sam Yip at the combine. “So kind of understanding that it’s going to happen no matter what. I’m going to have to deal with it no matter what, so just be myself, and that will take care of itself. I think hate is the biggest thing I learned. To get through it and deal with it because it’s going to happen.”

McCain has elicited strong reactions on social media for painting his nails, which he addressed at the combine.

“Painting my nails in high school, I knew it was going to generate hate,” McCain told HoopsHype. “It’s funny. When I first did it in COVID, I knew it was a “girl thing,” but I didn’t process it to that extent that people were going to be that mad about it. I saw people like Jordan Clarkson and Jalen Green do it, so I thought I could do it, too. I’m used to it by now.”

More: Jared McCain: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Providence: Guard, Junior, 6-3)

Previous rank: 17 (+2) / Best rank: 13 / Worst rank: N/R

After his father, Anthony Carter, played for the Miami Heat just over 20 years ago, Providence guard Devin Carter is projected to follow in his father’s footsteps and be selected just outside the lottery.

“The pedigree helps from his father, Anthony, as both Carter men are tough and competitive players,” a veteran NBA executive told HoopsHype.

After starring as the Big East Player of the Year, Carter believes he’ll be able to adjust to the NBA and fit in with any potential backcourt star teammate.

“I think I can be a plug-and-play guy,” Carter said at the combine. “I can rebound the ball really well. I can give the ball space. I can also create for myself if needed. If someone is double-teamed, they can kick it to me, and I’ll hit the open shot. I can make the right read. Defensively, I can lock down the opposing player I’m guarding and give them a little break on defense, especially for a superstar. I can get the rebound, get out in transition, and go. I think that’s the easiest way to play.”

During his junior season, Carter became a viable 3-and-D prospect by nailing 37.7 percent of his threes on 2.5 attempts per game. Carter also is a strong positional rebounder (8.7 per game) and on-ball defender who navigates screens well and recovers quickly to contest shots as a help defender when the ball is swung on the perimeter.

Some, however, have questioned Carter’s ball-handling abilities, which he believes is a misconception regarding his game.

“Obviously, it’s not going to look like Kyrie Irving or Jamal Crawford, but I get to my spots and where I want to go,” Carter said. “I don’t think I get ripped or the ball taken from me, especially dribbling. I think I can create shots for other people. If you ask me, that’s ball handling. If you can get to where you want to go and create shots for other people, that’s ball handling to me.”

Carter led the NBA Draft Combine in several drills, including the three quarter sprint (2.87 seconds), standing vertical leap (35 inches tied for first), and max vertical leap (42 inches tied for first).

More: Devin Carter: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Baylor: Guard, Freshman, 6-5)

Previous rank: 12 (-4) / Best rank: 11 / Worst rank: N/R

The Philadelphia 76ers are entering a transformative offseason with significant cap space and have already been linked to several star free agents and potential trade candidates.

With Buddy Hield entering unrestricted free agency and Ja’Kobe Walter potentially available based on the current mock draft, this would be a great fit for both sides.

“I’m an elite scorer who can get his shot off from anywhere and from range,” Walter told HoopsHype at the combine. “I’m always going to compete on the defensive end and do whatever it takes to win, like dive on the floor and take charges.”

Walter is considered one of the top shooters in the draft. On open catch-and-shoot three-pointers, Walter shot 44.8 percent from behind the arc and 42.1 percent on off-ball screens. He has the potential to be a 3-and-D wing player with his size, length, and active hands.

As a rookie, Walter must improve his ball handling to create his shot more effectively and quicken his shooting release, according to multiple NBA executives.

When asked by HoopsHype for his player comparison, Walter replied Kawhi Leonard.

“He’s in the mid-range a lot and is a great scorer,” Walter told HoopsHype. “Defensively, he’s always competing. I’ve always been watching him.”

More: Ja’Kobe Walter: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Duke: Center, Sophom*ore, 7-0)

Previous rank: 15 (-2) / Best rank: 11 / Worst rank: N/R

The New Orleans Pelicans have until June 1 to decide whether to take this Los Angeles Lakers selection or wait until 2025 as part of a previous trade.

NBA executives have compared Duke’s Kyle Filipkowski with Toronto’s Kelly Olynyk as a floor-spacing big man after shooting 34.8 percent beyond the arc as a sophom*ore.

Filipkowski is more willing to put the ball on the floor and attack defenders on closeouts than Olynyk and is a willing passer from the high post.

Several executives question if Filipowski can be a rim protector in the NBA due to his negative wingspan and lack of vertical pop despite blocking 1.5 shots.

After hearing comparisons from NBA talent evaluators, the 20-year-old center shared who he tries to model his game after.

“There are players like Chris Paul, Luka Doncic, and LaMarcus Aldridge, whom I admire for different aspects of their game,” Filipkowski said at the combine. “Paul for his IQ, Doncic for playing within himself and using his strengths, and Aldridge for his dominance and shooting ability.”

More: Kyle Filipowski: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Colorado: Forward, Senior, 6-9)

Previous rank: 19 (+1) / Best rank: 16 / Worst rank: NR

The Orlando Magic will be looking to improve the team’s shooting this offseason via the draft and free agency, league sources told HoopsHype.

Enter Tristan da Silva. He compared himself to Magic forward Franz Wagner when chatting with HoopsHype and earned his highest projection in the aggregate mock draft since the start of the college basketball season.

The 23-year-old combo forward fills the stat sheet across the board and shot 39.5 percent from three-point range in his past two seasons with Colorado, giving NBA talent evaluators confidence he can carve out a role as a stretch-four.

“I feel like basketball IQ is one of my strengths for sure,” da Silva told HoopsHype. “Making the right reads, making the right passes. My shooting as well, and my versatility. I can guard multiple positions. I can switch onto multiple positions, and that’s all they do in the NBA, they switch around, so I feel comfortable out there guarding people.”

While noted for his versatility with NBA executives, da Silva pushed back against some misconceptions he believes have been labeled on his game.

“There’s a narrative out there, and I don’t know where it’s coming from, that I’m soft and not athletic,” da Silva told HoopsHype. “I’ve never heard people that actually played against me say that. That’s a fan or media thing, I guess. I don’t know where it’s coming from, but I would probably say that is not the case.”

More: Tristan da Silva: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Baylor: Center, Freshman, 6-10)

Previous rank: 18 (-1) / Best rank: 12 / Worst rank: N/R

The Toronto Raptors have several offseason items ahead, including figuring out how much restricted free agent Immanuel Quickley will command on the market, whether to pick up Bruce Brown’s $23 million team option, and whether to retain Gary Trent Jr. in free agency.

Toronto is expected to exercise the $23 million team option on Bruce Brown, league sources told HoopsHype, echoing a report from the Toronto Star. Doing so will make Brown a noteworthy trade chip in the final year of his contract for contending playoff-caliber teams to monitor.

With several players capable of playing center on the roster, including Jakob Poeltl, Kelly Olynyk, and Chris Boucher, this aggregate mock draft poll selection of Baylor’s Yves Missi is interesting, to say the least.

Missi started playing soccer as a youngster in Cameroon. His parents both played for the national team, and his brother played at Harvard. At a basketball camp a few years ago, Missi started playing basketball, and he wanted to play high school basketball.

“I knew about him from high school,” Missi’s teammate Ja’Kobe Walter told HoopsHype. “I saw a guy catching lobs and blocking shots. We got into scrimmages, and we saw that he had different skills. He just started playing basketball, and he’s got great touch. His athleticism is insane. People were trying to jump with him, and he was dunking on people the first day. He was getting three dunks on people’s heads each practice. He’s a freak of nature.”

Missi, who will turn 20 during the combine, has drawn comparisons to Clint Capela by various NBA executives. However, Missi told HoopsHype that he compares his game to Dereck Lively II.

More: Yves Missi: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Pittsburgh: Guard, Freshman, 6-5)

Previous rank: 27 (+7) / Best rank: 20 / Worst rank: NR

Pittsburgh’s Carlton Carrington is a projected top-20 pick for the first time in the HoopsHype aggregate mock draft.

Carrington was compared to Cavaliers swingman Caris LeVert by one NBA scout and would become his teammate if this projection holds.

The versatile Pittsburgh freshman can play both guard positions and small forward if needed. Carrington can handle the ball well and has good positional size, but needs to work on his three-point shot and improve as an on-ball defender, according to NBA executives.

Carrington, however, doesn’t agree with the assessment of NBA talent evaluators regarding his defense.

“I feel like my defense is so underrated,” Carrington told HoopsHype’s Cyro Asseo. “I can really guard, but it’s not really talked about. I’m not a flashy defender. I’m not going to make extreme plays, but if you need someone to stop a scorer, I’m the one to do that.”

More: NBA draft prospect Carlton Carrington: ‘I feel like my defense is so underrated’

More: Carlton Carrington: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Purdue: Center, Senior, 7-4)

Previous rank: 21 (-) / Best rank: 14 / Worst rank: NR

The Pelicans have numerous offseason items on their agenda, including gauging the Brandon Ingram trade market, finding a replacement for center Jonas Valanciunas, who’s expected to depart in free agency, and more, as noted on a recent HoopsHype Pelicans podcast episode.

In this aggregate mock draft update, the Pelicans find a center in two-time National Player of the Year Zach Edey.

When asked what it was like to compete against Edey in the National Championship, UConn projected lottery pick Donovan Clingan gave a detailed scouting report when asked what stuck out to him about Edey.

“His size, strength, physicality, and he scores the ball,” Clingan replied. “He’s a great player. He’s tall and strong. It’s hard to move him in the post. He rebounds the ball at both ends at a high level. It was really hard to play against him. I want to go up against the best at the highest stage, so being able to go against Zach was an honor.”

While Clingan gave a positive scouting report, there are misconceptions about Edey’s game he’s trying to debunk during the pre-draft process.

“When you see someone who’s 7-foot-4, 300 pounds, you assume some things like he can’t move his feet, can’t shoot, can’t be mobile, and you assume he’s injury prone, but I think I can do a lot of the things people don’t think I can,” Edey said at the NBA Draft Combine. “I think I can move my feet and shoot the ball. People who are usually 7-foot-4 can’t make their free throws. I can do that. I can do things people don’t expect.”

Among the things Edey wants to show NBA teams is that he’s a better shooter than people realize.

“I think I need to show people I can shoot the way I believe I can,” Edey said. “I think, for the most part, teams kind of know what I’m good at. Teams have tons of film on me. Obviously, I think I’m quicker than teams think I am. I think I can shoot better than teams think I can.”

When asked where he believes his current draft range is by HoopsHype, Edey replied between 10 to 25, and if this pick holds, it could make sense for the bruising center.

More: Zach Edey: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Ignite: Forward, G League, 6-11)

Previous rank: 20 (-2) / Best rank: 11 / Worst rank: 29

With an expensive roster, the Phoenix Suns could help bolster their bench with this pick on an affordable salary, and landing G League Ignite prospect Tyler Smith would add a versatile frontcourt addition to the team who could earn rotation minutes as a rookie.

Smith’s left-handed three-point shot has gained significant interest from NBA talent evaluators, but the versatile forward believes he can do more than just stretch the floor.

“I would say I’m not just a robot,” Smith said. “I don’t just set screens, roll, and shoot the ball. I can make a lot of shots, but I can also take people off the dribble, stretch bigs on the floor, and even play some five.”

Smith has drawn comparisons to Timberwolves Sixth Man of the Year Naz Reid by multiple NBA scouts, as noted in the previous aggregate mock draft.

“I’m definitely a combo forward in the league, like a three or four,” Smith told HoopsHype’s Cyro Asseo at the NBA Draft Combine. “But this year, with our big man hurt, I had to show that I can play multiple positions and help my team in any way possible, more so on the wing as a three than a four.”

Some players Smith has watched and tried to emulate in his game include Keegan Murray, Trey Murphy, Jabari Smith, and Chris Bosh.

More: Tyler Smith: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Miami: Guard, Freshman, 6-8)

Previous rank: 23 (-) / Best rank: 18 / Worst rank: NR

Miami’s Kyshawn George has landed at No. 23 overall in consecutive aggregate mock drafts and is a potential sleeper to monitor in this class. In this scenario, George would provide the Milwaukee Bucks shooting insurance should unrestricted free agent Malik Beasley leave on the open market after shooting 41.3 percent from three-point range as a full-time starter this season.

“George’s offense is diversified,” a veteran NBA executive told HoopsHype. “Not only is he a pretty good perimeter shooter, but he can put the ball on the deck and make plays for others. I would say his offensive game is ahead of his defensive game. He’s a tall player with perimeter skills, namely his shooting, handling, and passing are all plusses. He shows a good foundation for being a good offensive player, especially given his 6-foot-8 size.”

George’s basketball journey has taken him from Switzerland to France, Miami, and whatever NBA city is his next destination. Entering the league, George compared himself to Klay Thompson, with more ball-handling creativity in our recent HoopsHype interview.

“I think I’m a very dangerous shooter from the outside who can shoot from deep and make a shot from everywhere on the court,” George told HoopsHype. “I’m long and a versatile player. I’m a good defender who can bother shots with my length, and I have quick hands. I think I’m a smart player too. I believe my creativity and ball-handling ability are often overlooked. People see me as just a 3-and-D player, but I bring much more to the table.”

More: Kyshawn George: ‘I study ball handling like Luka Doncic, shooting like Klay Thompson’

More: Kyshawn George: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Indiana: Center, Sophom*ore, 7-0)

Previous rank: 24 (-) / Best rank: 12 / Worst rank: NR

Indiana center Kel’el Ware arguably helped his draft stock more than any other sophom*ore after an underwhelming freshman season at Oregon.

Ware ranked in the 87th percentile as a post scorer while developing a consistent right-handed hook shot and a turnaround fadeaway jumper over his right shoulder on the block to complement his three-point shot (.425).

“I’m able to pick-and-pop, be a lob threat, and can defend on the perimeter,” Ware told HoopsHype at the NBA Draft Combine. “I don’t have slow feet, so I feel like that will make me especially good on the defensive end to be able to move around and affect and block shots.”

The biggest knock on Ware was his low motor, but he helped change that narrative this season and still aims to do so even more in the pre-draft process.

When asked about a misconception of his game that he doesn’t believe is true, Ware replied, “The motor aspect and what everybody says about it. I feel like I’ve proven that enough, but I still have some more to prove.”

Ware would provide the New York Knicks added center insurance with Isaiah Hartenstein and Precious Achiuwa entering free agency this summer.

During a HoopsHype interview in early April, Hartenstein was asked about his impending unrestricted free agency and said, “I love it here. Hopefully, we’ll figure something out.”

Achiuwa is eligible for restricted free agency and averaged 12.5 points on 52.6 percent shooting, 9.5 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks in 18 starts this season.

More: Kel’el Ware: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Virginia: Guard, Sophom*ore, 6-8)

Previous rank: 32 (+7) / Best rank: 20 / Worst rank: NR

Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau would fall in love with Virginia’s Ryan Dunn, considered arguably the best perimeter defender in the draft, averaging 3.6 stocks (steals and blocks) per game.

“You’re bringing in a defensive monster who can guard right away, learn your schemes, and be able to hold my own,” Dunn told HoopsHype.

While retaining OG Anunoby is the top priority for the Knicks this offseason, his injuries left a gaping defensive hole when he was out of the lineup, so who better to be his potential backup than a prospect who compares himself to Anunoby and an All-Defensive player.

“There are a lot of players I watch, like Paul George and Herb Jones, too defensively,” Dunn told HoopsHype. “I think the closest I probably have is OG Anunoby right now, with him in the playoffs with his size and strength defensively.”

Following the combine, Dunn believed his draft range is 15 to 30, though some NBA executives who spoke with HoopsHype say he could be gone by this pick. If he’s still on the board for New York, the Knicks would get great value by adding him to their rotation next season.

More: Ryan Dunn: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Cairns Taipans: Wing, International, 6-10)

Previous rank: 26 (-) / Best rank: 26 / Worst rank: NR

Bobi Klintman, who told HoopsHype he believes his draft range is 15 to 30, has been projected at No. 26 overall to the Wizards in consecutive aggregate mock drafts.

The 6-foot-10 forward is expected to become the first Swedish-born player selected in the first round of the NBA Draft.

Defensively, Klintman has enough foot speed to cover ground if he’s switched onto guards on the perimeter. Offensively, Klintman can handle the ball well for his size and is improving as a three-point shooter.

“I’d say I’m versatile,” Klintman told HoopsHype. “I can guard multiple positions and play multiple positions. I’m a very good playmaker. That’s one thing I think is underrated in my game. I can really pass the ball and cut off the ball. I can definitely shoot the ball.”

More: Bobi Klintman: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Kansas: Wing, Freshman, 6-9)

Previous rank: 22 (-5) / Best rank: 18 / Worst rank: N/R

Johnny Furphy broke out during last summer’s NBA Academy Games, and his stock has since risen after exceeding expectations as a freshman at Kansas.

The baby-faced Australian shot 42.9 percent on spot-up three-pointers with a smooth and quick release. Furphy thrives in transition thanks to his length and fluid bounce. In half-court sets, Furphy moves well off the ball as a cutter and relocates well. Defensively, Furphy can switch up to three positions and uses his length and active hands to disrupt passing lanes.

Looking ahead, Furphy needs to improve his shot creation and add muscle to his slender frame.

More: Johnny Furphy: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Marquette: Guard, Senior, 6-3)

Previous rank: 28 (-) / Best rank: 21 / Worst rank: N/R

Tyler Kolek is slotted with the Denver Nuggets for the second consecutive aggregate mock draft.

Kolek projects as a late first-round pick and future backup NBA point guard who will be ready to contribute immediately as a 23-year-old rookie.

The two-time consensus All-American floor general led college basketball in assists per game (7.7) and shot 39.3 percent from three-point range over the past two seasons combined.

Kolek’s playmaking and shooting should translate to the NBA immediately. However, Kolek’s lack of a strong first step, defensive lateral quickness, and ability to score in traffic are weaknesses in his game that will be exploited in the pros.

More: Tyler Kolek: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Ratiopharm Ulm: Wing, International, 6-8)

Previous rank: 50 (+21) / Best rank: 20 / Worst rank: NR

The 18-year-old forward has a strong frame, lateral quickness, and a long wingspan to help him guard four positions, but must improve his rebounding and use his hands more to generate steals.

The French forward’s swing skills is his three-point shooting, which has improved lately and sits at 35.8 percent overall this season for Ratiopharm Ulm (Germany). Some executives also question whether he can consistently make plays for his teammates as a playmaker as he did at Basketball Without Borders Global Camp last year.

He’s become an intriguing long-term play and a potential draft-and-stash option.

(California: Guard, Junior, 6-7)

Previous rank: 29 (-1) / Best rank: 18 / Worst rank: NR

The Boston Celtics are heading to the NBA Finals and could add a potential backcourt rotation piece in Jaylon Tyson in this aggregate mock draft scenario.

“I’d describe my game as a three-level scorer and a two-way player who can rebound,” Tyson told HoopsHype at the NBA Draft Combine. “I feel like it’s hard to guard me because I have so many aspects of my game that if you take one aspect away, I’ll go to another. I can make my teammates around me better. That’s the thing that separates me, in my opinion. If you try to double-team me, I can get out of those situations and make my teammates better.”

Tyson nailed 40 percent of his ball screen three-pointers and 38 percent of his spot-up threes. The 21-year-old guard has good positional size and ball handling ability to change pace, which allows him to use a floater when he attacks with drives off handoffs and pick-and-rolls.

“I’ve heard a lot of comparisons to Caleb Martin,” Tyson told HoopsHype. “That’s the biggest one that’s come up. I want to grow into that type of player. I’m not him right now. That’s the player I’ve been focusing and watching film on.”

More: Jaylon Tyson: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Kansas: Guard, Senior, 6-7)

Previous rank: 25 (-6) / Best rank: 16 / Worst rank: NR

Kevin McCullar has good positional size and five college seasons of experience to be an immediate NBA contributor, active hands-on defense generating turnovers (1.6 college career steals per game) that helped him become a Big 12 All-Defensive selection and solid rebounder, with playmaking skills as a secondary ball handler.

The primary knocks on McCullar from NBA talent evaluators are his ceiling as a 23-year-old prospect and lack of a consistent three-point shot despite plenty of college basketball seasoning at 30.9 percent for his career.

More: Kevin McCullar: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Dayton: Forward, Junior, 6-10)

Previous rank: 31 (-1) / Best rank: 22 / Worst rank: NR

DaRon Holmes has positioned himself as a potential late first-round pick in consecutive mock drafts, falling just short of the first round in this edition.

“I know I’m a sleeper,” Holmes told HoopsHype at the NBA Draft Combine. “I know it’s going to show in the years coming up.”

Holmes shot the sixth-highest percentage (72.0) in the left corner shooting drill at the combine and measured with a 9-foot standing reach.

“I feel like I’m a big who can do it all,” Holmes told HoopsHype at the NBA Draft Combine. “I can do pick-and-roll and pick-and-pop. I think I’m a dangerous three-point shooter as a big. I’ve been working on my three-point shot a lot, especially this year. I’m a good passer who’s a ball mover and not a ball stopper. I’m very good on the defensive end with my hands, a good rebounder, and a team player who wants to win games.”

During his junior season at Dayton, where he was the A-10 Co-Player of the Year and won Defensive Player of the Year, Holmes expanded his range and became a pick-and-pop threat, shooting 38.6 percent on 2.5 three-point attempts.

“I like guys like Naz Reid, Al Horford, Nikola Jokic, and Aaron Gordon,” Holmes said, “I take different things from different guys. Defensively, Draymond Green because he’s not the biggest, fastest, or strongest, but he’s smart. He knows how to play in pick-and-roll coverage and uses his mouth to be vocal.”

Defensively, Holmes has the length and lateral quickness to guard on perimeter switches and protect the rim.

More: DaRon Holmes II: NBA Draft scouting report and intel

(Illinois: Guard, Senior, 6-6)

Previous rank: 33 (-) / Best rank: 15 / Worst rank: NR

Terrence Shannon Jr. made his first public comments ahead of his June sexual assault trial at the NBA Draft Combine.

“Obviously, it’s a real serious accusation, and I’m aware of that,” Shannon Jr. said. “I can’t go into too much detail about it, but I’m just focused on what I can control. That’s basketball and supporting my family.”

His attorneys requested that the DNA evidence in the case not be admissible in the trial. They also said, via a statement, that the judge ruling that the trial will move forward has no bearing on Shannon’s guilt or innocence in the case, as noted by ABC News.

When asked how he dealt with the accusation on and off the court, Shannon Jr. replied, “Everybody faces adversity in their life, but it’s all about how you respond to it. It’s all about how you respond. You can’t sit and pout. You have to face it head-on.”

As for Shannon’s play on the basketball court, the 23-year-old swingman has an NBA physique and can guard three positions. After talent evaluators questioned his shooting consistency, Shannon shot 36.2 percent from downtown during the season.

“I bring intensity to my game and my character,” Shannon Jr. said. “I compete at the highest level. I’m never going to take days off. I work hard and go all out for any team. Whatever they need me to do, I’m going to do it.”

More: Terrance Shannon Jr: NBA draft scouting report

(Creighton: Guard, Senior, 6-7)

Previous rank: 38 (+4) / Best rank: 27 / Worst rank: NR

Baylor Scheierman was the first Division-I men’s player in NCAA history to surpass 2,000 points, 1,000 rebounds, 500 assists, and 300 three-pointers.

Following his five years of college basketball, the 23-year-old swingman believes his experience will help him become an immediate NBA contributor.

“I think you see a lot of guys like that now,” Scheierman said. ‘Austin Reeves. Max Strus. There are a lot of guys that have played multiple years in college that are now carving out roles in the NBA. That’s obviously good for me to see, going through the same path.”

Scheierman tied for the highest left corner shooting percentage at the combine (88 percent), which was no surprise considering he can stretch the floor coming off screens for catch-and-shoot threes. If the defense overpursues, he can finish around the rim and find open teammates off penetration.

However, Scheierman gives those points back on defense and is routinely beaten off the dribble by opponents who take advantage of his lack of foot speed and overall athleticism.

More: Baylor Scheierman: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Minnesota: Guard, Freshman, 6-6)

Previous rank: 54 (+19) / Best rank: 33 / Worst rank: NR

Cam Christiewas the second-highest riser of the aggregate mock draft and had a 32.5-inch standing vertical leap at the combine.

Christie earned Big Ten All-Freshman honors at Minnesota while shooting 39.1 percent from beyond the arc, which intrigued NBA executives, along with the 18-year-old’s positional size.

(Weber State: Wing, Junior, 6-6)

Previous rank: 36 (-) / Best rank: 28 / Worst rank: NR

Weber State star Dillon Jones told HoopsHype he believes his draft range is 20-40 and lands No. 36 overall to the Indiana Pacers in this aggregate mock draft.

“I think now, when you see Josh Hart how he’s killing it, I think it’s harder to find a better comparison for me than him, especially from where I’m scaling up to be in the NBA,” Jones told HoopsHype. “Hart was a heck of a player at Villanova. He had the ball in his hands a lot, but once he came to the NBA, he found value in what he does. He’s a heck of a player in transition, rebounding the ball, being tough on the wings, and doing whatever coach Thibodeau needs him to do as that utility piece. I think it’s harder to find a guy I compare to than him.”

Jones has several upcoming workouts, including the Pacers, Hornets, Bucks, Celtics, Raptors, and Spurs.

More: NBA draft prospect Dillon Jones follows Damian Lillard’s footsteps; compared to Knicks’ Josh Hart

More: Dillon Jones: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Colorado: Guard, Junior, 6-2)

Previous rank: 47 (+10) / Best rank: 31 / Worst rank: NR

KJ Simpson draws his highest aggregate mock draft projection at No. 37 overall after testing with the highest lane agility time at the NBA Draft Combine (10.49 seconds).

With Monte Morris entering unrestricted free agency, Simpson could carve a niche as Minnesota’s backup point guard if this projection comes to fruition.

Simpson finishes well around the rim with body control despite being a little undersized by today’s NBA point guard standards. He’s also worked on a floater in the lane. Defensively, Simpson is a pesky on-ball defender who can generate steals.

Simpson’s three-point shooting will help determine his ceiling as a player. After shooting a combined 26.9 percent in his first two years at Colorado, Simpson shot an efficient 43.4 percent last season. He’ll look to prove that huge leap wasn’t a fluke in pre-draft workouts.

(Saint-Quentin Basketball: Wing, International, 6-7)

Previous rank: 35 (-3) / Best rank: 29 / Worst rank: NR

Melvin Ajinca has remained projected in the 30s through four straight aggregate mock drafts.

Ajinca turns 20 on draft night and intrigues NBA executives with his sturdy frame and high motor. However, Ajinca doesn’t generate steals at a high rate nor gets to the foul line often. The lefty wing also has a streaky three-point shot.

More: Melvin Ajinca: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Kentucky: Wing, Freshman, 6-8)

Previous rank: 30 (-9) / Best rank: 26 / Worst rank: NR

Justin Edwards entered his freshman season at Kentucky as a potential high lottery pick but has settled in the 30s range in the past two aggregate mock drafts after only getting seven shots per game in 21.4 minutes.

Edwards shot 36.5 percent beyond the arc and 48.6 percent overall for the Wildcats, giving some NBA executives the belief he can be a role player.

As one NBA scout mentioned, Edwards can be Rodney Hood or Shabazz Muhammad. Those comparisons were echoed by other talent evaluators.

More: Justin Edwards: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Wake Forest: Guard, Junior, 6-5)

Previous rank: 41 (+1) / Best rank: 27 / Worst rank: NR

Hunter Sallis became an All-ACC First Team member with Wake Forest after two seasons as a bench player in limited minutes at Gonzaga.

“I feel like I can play a lot of different roles, the 3-and-D, and I feel like I can be a ball handler or a playmaker, and I think I could shoot it,” Sallis said. “I can really shoot it, and I could score. Whatever team needs me to come and do, I feel like I’d be able to adjust. I’m naturally quick and follow that up.”

While most of the attention went to his increased offensive production from 4.5 to 18 points per game, Sallis believes he can impact the game on defense, which he feels is an underrated part of his game.

“I can guard a lot of different guys, a lot of different positions,” Sallis said. “That’s something that I’m really trying to show throughout this whole process.”

More: Hunter Sallis: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(UConn: Forward, Sophom*ore, 6-8)

Previous rank: 40 (-1) / Best rank: 28 / Worst rank: NR

UConn’s Alex Karaban led the NBA Draft Combine in two shooting categories: Off-dribble college break left (90 percent) and on-the-move college non-stationary shooting (84 percent).

The stretch forward shot 38.9 percent from downtown in back-to-back championship seasons with the Huskies.

Besides his shooting, Karaban believes he can add more to an NBA team.

“I think winning,” Karaban told HoopsHype’s Cyro Asseo. “From being on teams that won back-to-back national championships, I know what it takes to win on and off the court. I know how a locker room is supposed to be and what the culture of a team is supposed to be. It’s about knowing the expectations for winning. I think with that IQ, passing, and trying to make everything easier for the other guys on the court, I can help. Also, becoming a better defender over time is something I’m working on. I’ve done a better job since my freshman and sophom*ore years, but I’ll continue to learn and improve.”

Karaban also believes his playmaking ability is overlooked.

“I’d say it’s my playmaking, and that’s not necessarily about assisting the ball or making the most stellar passes,” Karaban explained. “It’s about screening, cutting, and whether that’s a cut I make or a screen I give to someone else. It’s about creating shots, distracting the defense, and moving the defense a bit. Those are things that don’t necessarily show up in the stats.”

Karaban struggles to create his shot and stay in front of quicker perimeter players due to his average athleticism.

(Arizona: Guard, Senior, 6-5)

Previous rank: 46 (+4) / Best rank: 42 / Worst rank: NR

Pelle Larsson was a knockdown off-ball three-point shooter (.426) and can create off the dribble to beat his defender and create space for jumpers against taller or slower defenders.

“I think I can transfer very well in certain areas,” Larsson told HoopsHype. “I shoot the ball good, so I can spread the floor. I can play defense and guard multiple positions. We’ve seen guys recently getting drafted at my size, and my type of skillset has an impact right away. I think I’m ready to play right away and contribute with my effort, IQ, and shooting.”

Looking ahead to the NBA, Larsson views himself as a 3-and-D guard and shared two player comparisons for his game.

“I think any 3-and-D guard that’s pretty athletic and can defend well,” Larsson told HoopsHype. “I think a lot of people have brought up Christian Braun as a comparison, maybe because we look alike or something. I’ve heard Jrue Holiday could be one, maybe. He’s a guy I look up to.”

More: Pelle Larsson: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Illawarra Hawks: Guard, International, 6-5)

Previous rank: 58 (+15) / Best rank: 34 / Worst rank: NR

AJ Johnson tested well at the NBA Draft Combine, with some of the best times in the lane agility drill (10.76) and shuttle run (2.87). Johnson also had a 38-inch max vertical leap, which helped him become one of the top risers in this aggregate mock draft edition.

The 19-year-old combo guard has good positional size, length, athleticism, and quickness as one of the fastest prospects in the draft.

Teams considering Johnson are banking on those physical tools and that his lack of production overseas was due to an inconsistent role.

Miami is well known for its player development system and would be a great fit for Johnson.

More: Free agent Haywood Highsmith: ‘If all things are close, I definitely would love to stay in Miami’

(Iowa: Forward, Wing, 6-7)

Previous rank: 51 (+7) / Best rank: 26 / Worst rank: NR

Iowa’s Payton Sandfort was a proven three-point sniper (37.9 percent) on high-volume attempts (7.3 per game), but he’s more than a standstill shooter. Sandfort moves well on off-ball screens, has a quick release, and is a willing ball mover.

“I think people label me just as a shooter a lot,” Sandfort said. “I think I showed a ton last year that isn’t who I am. I had the toughest defensive assignments a lot and led us in rebounding while getting a ton of double-doubles. I even had a triple-double. I can pass and do a lot of things with the ball. I think I’m a very versatile player who gets labeled as a shooter too much.”

(North Carolina: Forward, Sophom*ore, 6-7)

Previous rank: 39 (-6) / Best rank: 33 / Worst rank: NR

Harrison Ingram was an All-ACC selection for the Tar Heels who believes his role is becoming a 3-and-D small forward in the NBA.

“I can shoot at a high level, contested or uncontested,” Ingram told HoopsHype’s Cyro Asseo. “I play defense at a high level, play hard, and I’m a rebounder. I’m one of those guys who play hard and knock down open threes. At Stanford, I had to do my threes off the dribble, so I know the percentages looked worse than they really were. At UNC, they told me just to catch and shoot every time I was open, and I feel like I did a good job of that and increasing my percentage.”

Ingram won’t break a defender down off the dribble nor jump off the charts athletically and will need to prove his not a tweener forward to NBA executives in pre-draft workouts.

More: NBA draft prospect Harrison Ingram: ‘I’m an elite passer and an elite playmaker’

More: Harrison Ingram: NBA draft scouting report

(NBA Academy Africa: Forward, International, 6-11)

Previous rank: 34 (-12) / Best rank: 30 / Worst rank: NR

Ulrich Chomche will remain 18 through the rest of the calendar year and has long-term upside. Chomche is a potential draft riser to monitor closely, given his athleticism for his size, 7-foot-4 wingspan, and defensive switchability.

Chomche impressed at the NBA Academy of Africa and put himself on the radar of NBA executives there.

“I know that I love to play defense and bring energy,” Chomche said at the NBA Draft Combine. “That’s what I can see I can bring first.”

For more on the Clippers, who hold this selection, check out their offseason primer on the free agencies of Paul George and James Harden and the futures of executive Lawrence Frank and coach Ty Lue.

More: Ulrich Chomche: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(KK Mega Bemax: Wing, International, 6-8)

Previous rank: N/R / Best rank: 20 / Worst rank: NR

Nikola Djurisic helped his draft stock considerably at the NBA Draft Combine during scrimmage play against other prospects.

The 6-foot-8 swingman was effective off the pick and roll as both a passer and a scorer from all three levels. Djurisic scored 16 points in 20 minutes in his final scrimmage and created space off the dribble well. He also displayed playmaking ability and sneaky athleticism with a driving baseline dunk, behind-the-back pass to an open corner three-point shooter, a spin move that turned into a left-handed hook shot in the lane, and knocked down multiple three-pointers.

(UCLA: Forward, Sophom*ore, 6-10)

Previous rank: 48 (-) / Best rank: 38 / Worst rank: NR

UCLA’s Adem Bona has an NBA niche as a high-motor rim-rolling big man who protects the paint as an effective shot blocker and rebounder, which helped him win the Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year award.

“I know my strengths and abilities, and I stick to them,” Bona told HoopsHype. “I know what I do well and bring to the court. Defensively, I feel like I can play so many defensive coverages in the pick-and-roll and off the pick-and-roll. I can guard multiple positions, which I think is one of my biggest strengths. Also, my athleticism, speed, and my strength. I believe I can move really well for my height and size defensively. Offensively, I can use my strength and speed as an advantage in running the court. I’m also very vocal. I feel like everyone hears me on the court when I play.”

When asked for his NBA player comparisons, Bona mentioned three centers.

“I’d say Clint Capela and Bam Adebayo,” Bona told HoopsHype. “I think that’s going to be developing into Bam. I’d say those are the two players I can be compared to. Ben Wallace was a player I liked because of his energy.”

Bona is not a floor spacer or reliable foul shooter offensively, but he’s a lob threat and can score around the rim with his drop step and hook shot.

(UC Santa Barbara: Guard, Junior, 6-5)

Previous rank: 44 (-5) / Best rank: 36 / Worst rank: NR

The Indiana Pacers have two Life Sports Agency clients, Pascal Siakam and Andrew Nembhard, who are both represented by Todd Ramasar. Ajay Mitchell would be the third player if this projection holds.

Mitchell became a consistent knockdown three-point shooter for the first time in his collegiate career at 39.3 percent as a junior, has gotten to the foul line often (5.9 free throw attempts the past two seasons), and is a good foul shooter (.858) with decent size for his position.

“I think there were questions about whether I could compete against better athletes, especially being at UCSB, which is a mid-major,” Mitchell told HoopsHype. “I think I have a chip on my shoulder being from a smaller school and being able to show that I can play against anyone at every level. I also think my defense, which maybe people were questioning. I think it’s something I’ve worked on. This year, I wasn’t fully healthy with my ankle, so it was hard to show I could guard full court and multiple positions. Now that I’m healthy, I think that’s something I’ve got to prove to everybody.”

As for what type of guards Mitchell models his game after, he gave two All-Star comparisons, one fringe All-Star candidate, and a backup point guard who excelled during the playoffs.

“There are a lot of guys I look up to like Mike Conley, Jalen Brunson, Jamal Murray, Andrew Nembhard, and guys like that who can be high-level decision makers,” Mitchell said.

MORE: Myles Turner: Pacers trade talks, Tyrese Haliburton, Pascal Siakam’s free agency, Rick Carlisle

(Baylor: Wing, Senior, 6-9)

Previous rank: 55 (+5) / Best rank: 39 / Worst rank: NR

NBA teams seeking 3-and-D wing role players are monitoring Baylor’s Jalen Bridges because of his positional size, defensive activity, and three-point efficiency after shooting a career-high 41.2 percent on a career-high 5.1 attempts per game.

“I feel like it’s a mix of a few guys like Jaden McDaniels and Herb Jones,” Bridges told HoopsHype. “I’m trying to be humble, but I feel like I’m a better shooter than both of those guys, especially at this stage of my career. Trey Murphy and PJ Washington are guys I watch a lot with my trainer, who breaks down film and shows me comparisons with my film. I strive to be like them.”

After earning All-Big 12 honors as a senior, Bridges believes he’ll mirror his role at Baylor heading into the NBA, which puts him at an advantage.

“I feel like I can make a lot of shots in a lot of different ways and actions like off the catch-and-shoot, pindowns, and in transition,” Bridges said. “Then, my defense, which will probably get me on the floor early in my career. I’ll have to be active and use my length to make it tough on the very talented players in the NBA. I feel like defense is a pride thing and something I really care about and hang my hat on. Also, my IQ. I know how to play. I’m a mature player and an older guy. I’ve been around for a long time, and I’ve played with great guards at Baylor. I feel like my role really won’t change. I was an off-ball player who played off the guards and was a connector.”

(Marquette: Forward, Senior, 6-11)

Previous rank: 42 (-9) / Best rank: 28 / Worst rank: NR

Oso Ighodaro tested well at the NBA Draft Combine, tying for the highest standing vertical leap at 35 inches and posting a 39.5-inch max vertical leap.

Ighodaro is one of the best passers in this year’s draft class, hitting cutters out of the post and executing dribble hand-offs. He also sets solid screens to free up his teammates for open shots. Offensively, Ighodaro is a limited shooter outside of the paint and a poor foul shooter.

Defensively, Ighodaro is a good shot blocker, an adequate rebounder, and athletic enough to switch onto smaller players along the perimeter.

More: Oso Ighodaro: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Ignite: Forward, G League, 6-10)

Previous rank: 37 (-15) / Best rank: 30 / Worst rank: NR

Izan Almansa was one of the most accomplished Spanish prospects overseas before joining G League Ignite, winning a FIBA U-19 World Cup gold medal, and was named MVP of the tournament in 2023.

Since playing for Ignite, Almansa proved he could roll well off screens, fake dribble handoffs, and use a right-handed hook shot in the post. However, NBA executives view Almansa as more of a traditional low post big man who needs to improve his ability to space the floor and be more athletic as a defender, especially against smaller lineups on the perimeter.

“I want to show I’ve improved everything, and I’m the same person I was in July during the World Cup and during the season,” Almansa told HoopsHype at the NBA Draft Combine. “I want to show I’m an all-around player and versatile with a high IQ.”

During upcoming interviews with NBA teams, Almansa hopes to show his maturity and remind talent evaluators of his journey to being one of the top Spanish prospects as recently as a year ago.

“I left home when I was 14,” Almansa explained. “I went over to the United States. I’ve moved a lot, and I’ve grown a lot off the court. I want to show the teams that I’m a good guy. I’ve been away from home since I was 14, which made me grow faster.”

More: Izan Almansa: NBA draft scouting report and intel

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(Houston: Guard, Senior, 6-1)

Previous rank: 52 (-1) / Best rank: 40 / Worst rank: NR

Jamal Shead was the first player in Big 12 history to win Player of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year in the same season.

At the combine, Shead had the second-fastest three quarter sprint (2.94 seconds) and recorded a 37.5-inch max vertical leap. During scrimmages, Shead averaged 14 points and five assists in Chicago.

Shead is a stout on-ball defender with great instincts and active hands, which helped him average 2.2 steals per game.

Offensively, Shead is strong, with a soft touch that helps him finish around the rim, and a good passer who averaged 6.3 assists per game.

If Shead is going to earn minutes as a backup NBA point guard, he must improve his three-point shot (.296 for his college career).

(San Francisco: Forward, Junior, 6-8)

Previous rank: N/R / Best rank: 40 / Worst rank: NR

Jonathan Mogbo measured with a 7-foot-2 wingspan at the combine, had the fifth-fastest sprint time (3.02), and helped his stock in scrimmages.

As ESPN’s Jonathan Givony noted, Mogbo was a 5-foot-9, 125-pound combo guard entering high school with zero DI offers upon graduating before growing to a 6-foot-8, 225-pound forward.

Mogbo averaged a double-double at San Francisco, averaging 14.2 points and 10.1 rebounds with the ability to make plays for others (3.6 assists) and clog passing lanes (1.6 steals per game).

(USC: Guard, Freshman, 6-4)

Previous rank: N/R / Best rank: 54 / Worst rank: N/R

Bronny James had a whirlwind freshman season at USC, where he went from a projected first-round pick before the college season to suffering cardiac arrest on July 24 and was hospitalized in Los Angeles.

“I still think about everything that could happen, but I just love the game so much that it overpowers it,” James said at the combine.

Now, he’s become the most scrutinized prospect in the draft because of his last name and the possibility of LeBron James wanting to fulfill his dream of playing with his son.

“You have to have the conversation internally, especially if you’re a team in the West because if you can improve your chances of landing LeBron, it could significantly improve your chances,” an NBA executive told HoopsHype.

“I feel like this is a serious business, and I don’t feel like there would be a thought of, ‘I’m just drafting this kid just because I’m going to get his dad,’” Bronny said at the NBA Draft Combine. “I don’t think a GM would really allow that. I think I’ve put in the work, and I’d get drafted because of not only the player but the person that I am.”

While LeBron previously made headlines saying it was his dream to play with his son one day in the NBA, that wasn’t the case for Bronny when asked by HoopsHype if it was his dream to play with his dad.

“No, never,” Bronny replied. “My dream has always just been to put my name out, make a name for myself, and get to the NBA, which is everyone’s end goal that’s here. I never thought about just playing with my dad, but of course, he’s brought it up a couple of times. But yeah, I don’t think about it much.”

As for his play on the court, Bronny had a 40.5-inch max vertical leap, a 6-foot-7 wingspan, and the second-highest on-the-move non-stationary shooting percentage at 76 percent.

According to Shams Charania, Bronny had 10 workout invites but is only considering the Lakers and Suns.

More: Bronny James: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Ratiopharm Ulm: Guard, International, 6-3)

Previous rank: 45 (-11) / Best rank: 37 / Worst rank: NR

Juan Nuñez, who turns 20 three weeks before the draft, is a true floor general who thrives in pick-and-roll sets and creating open shots for his teammates.

Defensively, Nunez showed more active hands, averaging half a steal more this season (1.67 from 1.17), but he must continue to work on his on-ball defense heading to the NBA. In addition, NuÑez has shot 31.9 percent from beyond the arc over the past two seasons and will need to continue to work on his outside shot if he’s going to thrive in the NBA.

HoopsHype readers will remember Nuñez as one of the top breakout players at the 2023 FIBA World Cup by HoopsHype’s Alberto De Roa and had one of the highest Global Ratings among younger players in the tournament.

If Nuñez falls this far in the draft, it could be a steal.

More: Juan Nuñez: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(UConn: Guard, Senior, 6-4)

Previous rank: 60 (+3) / Best rank: 37 / Worst rank: NR

After transferring from Rutgers, Cam Spencer helped UConn win the national championship as a three-point sniper, shooting 44 percent, being a secondary ball handler and playmaker (3.6 assists), and a pest on defense with 1.5 steals per game to earn All-Big East honors this season.

Despite being 24 years old, shooting is always in demand at the NBA level and is Spencer’s best chance at earning a potential roster spot.

(Clemson: Center, Senior, 6-10)

Previous rank: 53 (-6) / Best rank: 30 / Worst rank: NR

Clemson’sPJ Hallwas one of just four players in college basketball who averaged 18.5 points, 7.0 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 1.5 blocks per game during his senior season.

Since his sophom*ore season, Hall has been a solid shot blocker (1.3 per game), and his swing skill is whether NBA teams believe he can stretch the floor closer to his 39.8 percent clip beyond the arc as a junior or his 31.5 percent mark as a senior.

After four years of development as a Tiger, Hall believes he canmake an immediateimpact as a rookie in the NBA.

“I think first and foremost I can bring a winning mentality,” Hall told HoopsHype’sSam Yip. “That was one thing I pride myself on in college while staying with the same team for four years, battling through some tough seasons and eventually making it to the Elite Eight this past year. I can space the floor. As a big body, I can give people open screens, pop back, andcatch it on the wing. If I have to take a shot, I can shoot it really well. And from there, space the floor on offense, and obviously guard multiple positions defensively as well.”

You can follow Michael Scotto (@MikeAScotto) on X, formerly known as Twitter.