Editor’s Note: Find more of Jonathan Wasserman’s coverage of the 2024 Draft on Bleacher Report or to read this article on BleacherReport.com, click here.

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(B/R) — NBA scouts have already had some excellent evaluation opportunities with all the non-conference tournaments taking place.

A handful of the high-profile freshmen have looked as advertised early. But we’re also starting to see some surprising potential one-and-dones surface, a needed development with the G League Ignite’s top prospect struggling and its other big name sidelined with an ankle injury.

It looks like a few players playing overseas will play big roles in this year’s draft discussion. One has moved into our top-three projections while putting up huge scoring and playmaking numbers at 18 years old.

Biggest Risers and Fallers Since Last Mock Draft

Risers

• Kevin McCullar Jr., Kansas (No. 47 to No. 17)
• Carlton Carrington, Pittsburgh (Off the board to No. 10)
• Ryan Dunn, Virginia (Off the board to No. 14)
• Trey Alexander, Creighton (No. 41 to No. 21)
• KJ Lewis, Arizona (Off the board to No. 28)
• Reed Sheppard, Kentucky (Off the board to No. 36)

Fallers

• D.J. Wagner, Kentucky (No. 14 to No. 26)
• Justin Edwards, Kentucky (No. 7 to No. 18)
• Elmarko Jackson, Kansas (No. 21 to off the board)
• Mackenzie Mgbako, Indiana (No. 28 to off the board)
• Elliot Cadeau, North Carolina (No. 30 to off the board)

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1. Detroit Pistons: Ron Holland

• School/Team: G League Ignite
• Position: SF
• Age: 18
• Size: 6-foot-6, 204 lbs
• Pro Comparison: Shawn Marion

Ron Holland and the G League Ignite are in a funk, and it’s opened up the conversation about where the team’s prospects stand in the draft discussion.

It’s still too early to knock the 18-year-old off the No. 1 line, given what we saw in high school and how dangerous he previously looked in consecutive games against the NBL’s Perth Wildcats.

A baseline projection pictures a Shawn Marion archetype who’ll impact games with explosiveness, activity and defense, rather than creation, playmaking or shooting.

But there is still higher potential outcomes where Holland continues to improve his scoring and shooting. He’s shown he can get to spots within a defense and separate off ball-handling counters and footwork plus burst, and he has looked capable (but inconsistent) with his jumper and floater.

Holland’s erratic three-ball and turnovers have raised some questions, however, so scouts will continue to monitor his progress before deeming him a clear No. 1 overall favorite.

2. Washington Wizards: Nikola Topić

• School/Team: Mega MIS
• Position: PG
• Age: 18
• Size: 6-foot-6, 198 lbs
• Pro Comparison: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

Nikola Topić’s emergence has been one of this draft cycle’s biggest storylines, and a needed one for a projected class looking for more worthy top-five picks.

The 6’6″, 18-year-old point guard is averaging 19.2 points and 6.6 assists (Adriatic League and Supercup), consistently giving defenses problems with his dribble manipulation, clever passing, finishing craft and pull-up shotmaking.

He reminds of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander with how he creates using shiftiness, change of speed, tight handles and IQ over explosion, quickness or burst. Topić’s playmaking upside is equally attractive, given how well he leverages his gravity, sees the floor and reads defenses in pick-and-roll situations.

NBA teams will ultimately start to look past his frame and athletic/defensive limitations if Topić continues to create advantages, finish around the basket and provide shotmaking firepower, even if his shooting accuracy fluctuates. There is too much to bet on with his positional size, production and age.

3. San Antonio Spurs: Isaiah Collier

• School/Team: USC
• Position: PG
• Age: 19, Freshman
• Size: 6-foot-5, 210 lbs
• Pro Comparison: Baron Davis

Isaiah Collier has had serious success creating advantages, blasting through gaps and finishing with both physicality and acrobatics.

Attacking and putting pressure on the rim will be his signature at the NBA level. The combination of ball-handling, burst and strength to knock defenders back has helped Collier rack up 16 buckets at the rim and 31 free-throw attempts in five games. But he’s also an exciting passer willing to settle into a quarterback role and facilitate. The creativity and power resemble Baron Davis’, though Collier isn’t as explosive of a leaper.

He still has 21 turnovers to 15 assists, so his decision-making for a lead guard will be monitored closely over the next few months.

Decision-making and shooting will be the hot topics to debate when discussing Collier’s NBA outlook.

4. Portland Trail Blazers: Alexandre Sarr

• School/Team: Perth Wildcats
• Position: PF/C
• Age: 18
• Size: 7-foot-1, 216 lbs
• Pro Comparison: Jaren Jackson Jr.

Alexandre Sarr’s defensive flashes of rim protection, shot-contesting and foot speed have created the most excitement. But he wouldn’t be in the No. 1 conversation without the 11 made threes, touch shots around the key and occasional drives into finishes.

The optimal outcome pictures the Frenchman morphing into another version of Jaren Jackson Jr. by continuing to improve his shooting and polishing up his face-up and post footwork.

Regardless, there isn’t much uncertainty or risk tied to Sarr’s defensive projection, given the strong likelihood that his 7-foot-1 size, athleticism, movement, aggression and NBL production translates to shot-blocking, pick-and-roll coverage and switchability.

5. Memphis Grizzlies: Zaccharie Risacher

• School/Team: JL Bourg
• Position: SF
• Age: 18
• Size: 6-foot-8, 204 lbs
• Pro Comparison: Harrison Barnes

Memories of a poor Nike Hook Summit week are being wiped away by Zaccharie Risacher’s impressive start in LNB Pro A and EuroCup.

The 6-foot-8 forward is making a combined 41.5% of his 3-pointers, demonstrating a quick, high and confident release. While scouts may be skeptical of his ability to initiate offense in the half court, his shotmaking and slashing tools create translatable complementary scoring similar to Harrison Barnes’.

However, Risacher is a more explosive athlete whose ball-handling, long strides and leaping are ideal for attacking and finishing in open-floor situations.

Passing and defensive flashes suggest there will be more to the 18-year-old’s game as he continues to develop.

6. Utah Jazz: Matas Buzelis

• School/Team: G League Ignite
• Position: SG/SF
• Age: 19
• Size: 6-foot-8, 209 lbs
• Pro Comparison: Franz Wagner

In the No. 1 overall discussion entering the season, Matas Buzelis has been sidelined by an ankle injury that has kept any draft buzz in check. The two exhibition games he played in Las Vegas drew mixed reviews that praised his shooting stroke, athleticism and fluidity but criticized his lack of aggression and defense.

Regardless of his consistency or production this season, his combination of positional size, ball-handling and shotmaking creates an archetype that mirrors Franz Wagner’s.

Ideally, Buzelis will be able to operate in ball-screen situations, spot up from three, work from the post and finish at a high percentage from off the ball. Failing to make an obvious impact this year may knock him out of the No. 1 discussion, but his versatility and easily projected fit should prevent him from falling too far.

7. Charlotte Hornets: Stephon Castle

• School/Team: Connecticut
• Position: SG
• Age: 19, Sophomore
• Size: 6-foot-6, 215 lbs
• Pro Comparison: Jimmy Butler

A knee injury knocked Stephon Castle out early, but he looked as advertised in limited action. There is some of Jimmy Butler in his physicality, two-point scoring, point-wing passing skills and defensive toughness.
Playing at his own pace, he has shown he can find ways to separate without needing lightning quickness or high-flying explosion.

Expected back in December, Castle will be joining an undefeated, deep lineup, so it’s reasonable to expect his role to remain limited.

In a draft lacking star power, however, the flashes, eye test and a coveted archetype should be enough to entice lottery and potentially top-five teams.

8. Chicago Bulls: Ja’Kobe Walter

• School/Team: Baylor
• Position: SG
• Age: 19, Freshman
• Size: 6-foot-5, 195 lbs
• Pro Comparison: Kentavious Caldwell-Pope

Ja’Kobe Walter’s 18.0 points per game and one total assist reflect high-level shotmaking and limited creation/playmaking.

Early signs point to a Kentavious Caldwell-Pope type, built to score from off the ball and defend opposing teams’ starting wings. He has an NBA frame, which he’s used at both ends to finish through contact and disrupt opposing ball-handlers.

Walter has still relied on hitting touch jumpers/runners and free throws, so it will interesting to see if he remains efficient during conference play. But given his success in high school, his hot start doesn’t seem fluky.

9. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Clippers): Cody Williams

• School/Team: Colorado
• Position: SF
• Age: 19, Freshman
• Size: 6-foot-8, 190 lbs
• Pro Comparison: Jerami Grant

Cody Williams has made some strong first impressions with his open-floor finishing, slashing, touch around the basket and defensive effort.

His three-ball looks capable but shaky, and he needs to be stronger with the ball, weaknesses that suggest he’s more of a longer-term project than an immediate upgrade for an NBA team.

At 6-foot-8, though, his potential scoring versatility and defensive tools could eventually mirror Jerami Grant’s. Between the five-game sample size at Colorado and his big senior year in high school, Williams has flashed that always-enticing combo of guard skills and wing-stopper tools.

10. San Antonio Spurs (via Raptors): Carlton Carrington

• School/Team: Pittsburgh
• Position: PG/SG
• Age: 18, Freshman
• Size: 6-foot-5, 190 lbs
• Pro Comparison: Tyrese Maxey

Serious attention is being paid to Carlton Carrington’s start at Pittsburgh, after he triple-doubled in his debut and hit 14 of his first 27 three-point attempts.

There is some Tyrese Maxey in his ability to create space with footwork, drill jumpers off the dribble and shoot from well beyond the arc.

Aside from the scoring versatility, Carrington has demonstrated impressive vision while handling the ball, making reads and delivering live-dribble passes.

Scouts are still in wait-and-see mode on his consistency, given the small sample size and their lack of familiarity with the four-star recruit.

However, the eye-test results have been extremely persuasive early, with Carrington having the size, self-creation, shotmaking and playmaking IQ of a full-package lead guard.

11. Atlanta Hawks: Kyle Filipowski

• School/Team: Duke
• Position: PF/C
• Age: 20, Sophomore
• Size: 7 feet, 248 lbs
• Pro Comparison: Moritz Wagner

While it doesn’t appear Kyle Filipowski has added much, he’s been tougher inside the arc using his effective combination of strength, footwork and touch.

The three-ball has been on and off early, but it’s still a key part of his outlook and one the team that drafts him will be banking on.

He’s not as fluid of a mover or shooter as Lauri Markkanen, but his physicality, skill and shotmaking could mirror Moritz Wagner’s.

Like Wagner, Filipowski may be more useful in an offensive specialist role off the bench, given his lack of rim protection at the center position.

12. Houston Rockets (via Nets): Tyrese Proctor

• School/Team: Duke
• Position: PG
• Age: 19, Sophomore
• Size: 6-foot-5, 183 lbs
• Pro Comparison: Andrew Nembhard

While there still doesn’t appear to be one aspect of Tyrese Proctor’s game that has scouts drooling, well-roundedness and mature decision-making continue to be draws.

His assist-to-turnover ratio (27 assists, four turnovers), mid-range shotmaking and limited rim pressure/burst is reminiscent of Andrew Nembhard.

Though Proctor can have trouble against pressure, blowing by and getting to the free-throw line, he does have some shifty ball-handling moves to separate into drives and jumpers. And his passing IQ and vision off the dribble should see teams use him as a lead point guard.

Proctor should remain in the lottery conversation, as long as he raises last year’s three-point volume and consistency.

13. Portland Trail Blazers (via Warriors): Donovan Clingan

• School/Team: Connecticut
• Position: C
• Age: 19, Sophomore
• Size: 7-foot-2, 280 lbs
• Pro Comparison: Jakob Poeltl

Coming off a summer foot injury, Donovan Clingan has looked similar to last year so far, playing to his strengths as a finisher and offensive rebounder.

Though it’s early, it doesn’t appear he’s added much offensively, though he’s still bound to draw top-20 interest for the translatable rim protection tied to his 7-foot-2 size, strength and anticipation.

He should still offer some offensive value as a roll man, high-percentage dump-off target and low-post scorer. His offensive effectiveness, role and defensive impact figure to be similar to Jakob Poeltl’s.

Clingan did have some trouble against Kel’el Ware’s length in the Indiana game, and foul trouble limited him to just 12 minutes against Texas. There are bound to be teams that question his NBA upside and fit with their roster, but certain ones may see him filling an important need with his physicality and ability to shut down the paint.

14. New Orleans Pelicans: Ryan Dunn

• School/Team: Virginia
• Position: SF/PF
• Age: 20, Sophomore
• Size: 6-foot-8, 216 lbs
• Pro Comparison: Herb Jones

At some point in this year’s first round, a team is going to look past Ryan Dunn’s offensive limitations to add his wild defensive playmaking and court coverage.

Certain front offices will feel they can afford to pass on better scorers and playmakers if a Herb Jones 2.0 is available.

Not many 6’8″ forwards anticipate and move with as much speed and explosion as Dunn, who’s made some incredible recovery plays, jumps passing lanes and rotates down for weakside contests at the rim.
An off-ball disruptor with the size and foot speed to guard bigs or wings, he can also provide complementary scoring with elite athleticism for play-finishing.

Any signs of shooting improvement this year should launch him into one of the draft’s top tiers.

15. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Rockets): Kel’el Ware

• School/Team: Indiana
• Position: C
• Age: 19, Sophomore
• Size: 7 feet, 242 lbs
• Pro Comparison: Jarrett Allen

Kel’el Ware struggled offensively in his first big test against Connecticut, but his defense held 7-foot-2, 280-pound Donovan Clingan in check most of the game.

His scouting report is starting mirror Jarrett Allen’s, with effective rim protection and finishing tools, some scoring touch around the key, struggles against physicality and a 3-point stroke that’s been more of a tease than a reliable source for offense.

16. New Orleans Pelicans (via Lakers): Adem Bona

• School/Team: UCLA
• Position: C
• Age: 20, Sophomore
• Size: 6-foot-10, 245 lbs
• Pro Comparison: Isaiah Jackson

Averaging nearly 10 more points per 40 minutes this year, Adem Bona continues to overpower opponents around the basket with his explosiveness, strength and energy. But he’s also been more effective scoring out of the post, and we’ve even seen flashes of face-up drives and mid-range jumpers, after he failed to make one jump shot all season as a freshman.

His NBA archetype and role will still be similar to Isaiah Jackson’s. Bona will always be valued for his athleticism, motor and fearlessness at the basket for rim running, play-finishing and shot-blocking. That package alone should generate first-round interest from teams looking for frontcourt depth and defense.
Any more flashes of face-up play, footwork and touch will be deemed a bonus that could keep pushing him toward the lottery.

17. New York Knicks: Kevin McCullar Jr.

• School/Team: Kansas
• Position: SG/SF
• Age: 22, Senior
• Size: 6-foot-7, 214 lbs
• Pro comparison: Kenrich Williams

A borderline draft pick in 2023, Kevin McCullar Jr. has looked different this year, showing elevated creation, finishing and playmaking firepower.

Getting to his spots, scoring through contact and setting up teammates with stationary and live-dribble passes, he seemingly has a stronger command and control of each possession. He’s triple-doubled twice in five games, and he’s been outstanding defensively, guarding different archetypes and locking down ball-handlers.
A safe projection envisions another Kenrich Williams, who has the ability to make lineups better with his decision-making, shotmaking, rebounding, efficiency and defensive IQ.

This year, NBA teams may be quicker to settle on a projected role player like McCullar, as the perceived higher-upside talent seems likely to dry out earlier than normal in 2024.

18. Cleveland Cavaliers: Justin Edwards

• School/Team: Kentucky
• Position: SF
• Age: 19, Freshman
• Size: 6-foot-8, 203 lbs
• Pro Comparison: Olivier Maxence-Prosper

Justin Edwards still has time to improve his early scouting report, which depicts a high-level athlete and versatile, disruptive defender whose handle and jump shot need plenty of work.

At this point, it may be safer for teams to picture an Olivier Maxence-Prosper type who’s valued for his play-finishing, transition game, activity around the rim and defense.

Edwards has shown flashes of spot-up shooting and a mid-range pull-up, but the eye test suggests they won’t be reliable soon.

In the meantime, he’s still been efficient scoring off the ball, and Kentucky will value his ability to guard and challenge wings or forwards.

19. Phoenix Suns: Izan Almansa

• School/Team: G League Ignite
• Position: PF
• Age: 18
• Size: 6-foot-10, 216 lbs
• Pro Comparison: Jabari Walker

Teams may start to think about Izan Almansa a little differently after his slow start for Ignite. His struggles creating and shooting have become evident, but there is still an appealing, likely trajectory tied to his inside scoring instincts, motor and defensive versatility.

The Spaniard is looking more like a play-finisher who will set screens and roll, crash the glass, post up, mix it up inside and occasionally spot up from three in a role similar to Jabari Walker’s.

Unless his ball-handling totally evolves, Almansa’s value will come in the form of mostly off-ball activity.

20. Atlanta Hawks (via Kings): Aday Mara

• School/Team: UCLA
• Position: C
• Age: 18, Freshman
• Size: 7-foot-3, 240 lbs
• Pro Comparison: Zyndrunas Ilgauskas

While Aday Mara’s minutes have fluctuated early, it’s still been easy to detect his sharp post footwork, touch and mid-range shooting stroke.

Measuring similarly to two-time All-Star Zyndrunas Ilgauskas, the Spaniard also has the skill level to command back-to-the-basket touches and pick-and-pops. He just isn’t the quickest or most fluid moving his feet around the perimeter, which will limit his amount of NBA suitors.

But even if Mara’s production and impact flicker at UCLA, and his fit/upside are questioned, his enormous size, various scoring methods, passing and shot-blocking should keep him locked into the first-round mix.

21. Indiana Pacers: Trey Alexander

• School/Team: Creighton
• Position: SG
• Age: 20, Junior
• Size: 6-foot-4, 190 lbs
• Pro Comparison: Donte DiVincenzo

There are extra layers to Trey Alexander’s game and athleticism this year, with the senior averaging 6.5 assists and suddenly throwing down dunks.

He was already one of the nation’s most versatile shooters last season, but at 6-foot-4, scouts wanted to see more playmaking and action around the basket. He’s delivering on both requests so far.

Even if teams aren’t convinced that Alexander’s creation or improved bounce will translate to efficient NBA scoring, they could still eye him for a Donte DiVincenzo role that values his shotmaking, ball-moving and versatility to make plays on and off the ball.

He clearly looks different and more well-rounded to add more passing value and stronger finishing/rebounding.

22. New York Knicks (via Mavericks): Baba Miller

• School/Team: Florida State
• Position: SF/PF
• Age: 19, Sophomore
• Size: 6-foot-11, 204 lbs
• Pro Comparison: Jonathan Isaac

Baba Miller continues to play a secondary or supporting role for Florida State, despite a FIBA U19 World Cup showing with Spain over the summer that hinted at a breakout sophomore season.

At this stage, teams may detect more value in his defensive upside/versatility, which could be similar to Jonathan Isaac’s.

Still, for this 19-year-old, the flashes of slashing and shotmaking continue to look enticing. Foul trouble has been an issue early, so there is a chance his minutes and aggression start to change.

His margin for error may be decreasing, though, as scouts look for more assertiveness and consistent results with his creation and shooting development.

23. Miami Heat: Kylan Boswell

• School/Team: Arizona
• Position: PG
• Age: 18, Sophomore
• Size: 6-foot-2, 195 lbs

Kylan Boswell is fighting off athletic concerns with ridiculous shotmaking accuracy, high-IQ plays and pesky defense.

He’s started the season 15-of-22 on 3-pointers, though his 60 two-point percentage is equally comforting, given scouts’ questions about his potential to separate and finish.

Even if it’s difficult to picture upside, Boswell should have enough pluses on the scouting report deemed translatable, including his transition playmaking, shooting, positional strength, decision-making and toughness.

24. Orlando Magic: Bobi Klintman

• School/Team: Cairns Taipans
• Position: SF/PF
• Age: 20
• Size: 6-foot-8, 225 lbs
• Pro Comparison: De’Andre Hunter

Despite not hitting 3-pointers at the same rate as last year, Bobi Klintman has looked like more of an NBA prospect in Australia with extra freedom and space to grab and go, put the ball down, score in the lane or pass off a live dribble.

Drafting him in the first round still means buying into his shot as well as his defensive tools.
With a similar body to De’Andre Hunter, he could eventually serve as another three-and-D combo forward, though the play-finishing and playmaking flashes from this year create some extra layers of offense and cushion if his shooting development stalls.

25. Philadelphia 76ers: Robert Dillingham

• School/Team: Kentucky
• Position: PG/SG
• Age: 18, Freshman
• Size: 6-foot-3, 176 lbs
• Pro Comparison: Bones Hyland

Inefficient last year with Overtime Elite, Robert Dillingham is averaging 16 points in just 23 minutes on an outstanding 63.4 true shooting percentage with Kentucky.

Similar to Bones Hyland, he’s an offensive lightning rod with self-creation and shotmaking that help compensate for such limited size, strength and athleticism.

Dillingham has been connecting on spot-up (44.4%) and dribble jumpers (43.8%), an encouraging sign that highlights his versatility as a combo who can score on and off the ball.

A 6-foot-3, 176-pound frame will still keep teams from reaching early on Dillingham, given the likely obstacles he’ll face on defense and getting off clean looks against NBA 2-guards. But certain lineups will value his firepower off the bench, and he’s even looked excellent playmaking for teammates in pick-and-roll situations.

26. Denver Nuggets: D.J. Wagner

• School/Team: Kentucky
• Position: PG/SG
• Age: 18, Freshman
• Size: 6-foot-4, 192 lbs
• Pro comparison: Cole Anthony

D.J. Wagner’s 1-of-12 showing against Kansas raised red flags, as he struggled to create finishing angles or shots for teammates, convert against length or make jump shots.

The positive is that he’s getting to his spots with a combination of shiftiness and burst.

The Kentucky product still has plenty of opportunities to alleviate scouts’ concerns, and there is enough evidence that he has the handle, quick moves, craft at the rim and shotmaking skill to bounce back and look more like a serviceable NBA scorer.

His archetype is starting to look more like Cole Anthony’s than a starting point guard’s. Wagner offers some playmaking off his elusiveness, but he’s clearly wired to score.

And like Anthony did in college, Wagner has struggled with decision-making and finishing.

27. Indiana Pacers (via Thunder): Trevon Brazile

• School/Team: Arkansas
• Position: PF/C
• Age: 20, Sophomore
• Size: 6-foot-10
• Pro Comparison: Obi Toppin

Trevon Brazile hasn’t been as aggressive this year since returning from ACL surgery. But the athletic play-finishing and shot-blocking are still there, and he’s made 5-of-11 3-pointers, developments that are ultimately more important than his creation, given the unlikelihood of it being used often at the next level.

Any flashes of drives past closeouts or floaters will be encouraging and point to other avenues toward upside. But his role and value will be similar to Obi Toppin’s with the Indiana Pacers.

NBA teams will show an interest in Brazile’s ability to pick up easy baskets and space the floor with pick-and-pop and spot-up shooting.

28. Milwaukee Bucks: KJ Lewis

• School/Team: Arizona
• Position: SG
• Age: 19, Freshman
• Size: 6-foot-4, 205 lbs
• Pro Comparison: Jae’Sean Tate

KJ Lewis might not need production to sell NBA teams for the 2024 draft. While teams will have to acknowledge that the freshman doesn’t project as a high-volume scorer or playmaker, his signature strengths seem translatable, and they create an archetype that some may value.

He’s going to play the Jae’Sean Tate role by impacting games on low usage with athleticism, energy and defense.

Lewis has had some outstanding defensive sequences that highlight his foot speed, processing and aggression making plays on the ball. But he’s also proved to be a high-IQ passer who can facilitate out of pick-and-rolls.
Scouts will feel a lot more willing to reach early on Lewis if he delivers some signs of shooting potential.

29. Minnesota Timberwolves: Tristan da Silva

• School/Team: Colorado
• Position: SF/PF
• Age: 22, Senior
• Size: 6-foot-9, 220 lbs
• Pro Comparison: Kyle Kuzma

A consistent shooter over the previous two seasons, Tristan da Silva has started 10-of-23 from behind the arc with his smooth, projectable stroke.

The combination of 6-foot-9 size and shotmaking versatility are reminiscent of Kyle Kuzma. Effective off off the catch or dribble, the Colorado product will earn his money around the perimeter or in the post, as he struggles making athletic plays attacking the basket.

Da Silva won’t offer much outside of scoring, but in the right role, teams may envision a plug-and-play combo who’ll step into jumpers and finish plays in space.

30. Boston Celtics: Aaron Bradshaw

• School/Team: Kentucky
• Position: C
• Age: 19, Freshman
• Size: 7-foot-1, 226 lbs
• Pro Comparison: Myles Turner

With Justin Edwards and DJ Wagner struggling for Kentucky, scouts remain eager for Aaron Bradshaw’s debut.
There still aren’t details available about his return from a foot injury, and Kentucky head coach John Calipari will presumably take it slow once the freshman is back.

The combination of 7-foot-1 size, shot-blocking and shotmaking could remind some of Myles Turner. And that coveted mix of rim protection and offensive floor-spacing will keep scouts patient.

However, Bradshaw still has some convincing to do with his offensive feel, shooting credibility and health/durability.

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31. New York Knicks: Tidjane Salaun

• School/Team: Cholet
• Position: PF
• Age: 18
• Size: 6-foot-8, 212 lbs

Scouts will put more stock into Tidjane Salaun’s flashes than his consistency, which has been up and down in LNB Pro A.

Evaluators will be patient with the 18-year-old, given the obvious long-term appeal to his combination of size, athletic ability and shotmaking. His shooting and feel for the game are still behind, however. Teams considering him won’t be expecting any rookie contributions.

32. Detroit Pistons (via Wizards): Tyler Smith

• School/Team: G League Ignite
• Position: SF/PF
• Age: 19
• Size: 6-foot-11, 224 lbs

With Ron Holland struggling and Matas Buzelis injured, Tyler Smith has been Ignite’s most productive draft-eligible prospect early. He’s off to a ridiculous start from 3-point range, making 11-of-17 attempts, an eye-catching development given his size and age.

Smith hasn’t showcased much creation, passing or shot-blocking, so there will be a lot riding on his jump shot. But if the hot shooting turns out to be real/consistent, he’ll have a chance to move into the first-round mix.

33. San Antonio Spurs: Jarin Stevenson

• School/Team: Alabama
• Position: PF
• Age: 18, Freshman
• Size: 6-foot-11, 210 lbs

There could be a path toward the first round for Jarin Stevenson if he continues to hit threes and finish.
NBA teams are going to tempted by his age and archetype, which should earn the 18-year-old a pass if he goes through quiet offensive stretches this season.

At 6-foot-11, his floor-spacing shooting in spot-up and pick-and-pop situations, plus his tools around the basket, hint at an eventual NBA fit.

34. Milwaukee Bucks (via Blazers): Oso Ighodaro

• School/Team: Marquette
• Position: C
• Age: 21, Senior
• Size: 6-foot-11, 235 lbs

A two-way impact player for one of the nation’s premier teams, Oso Ighodaro is becoming a major talking point in the draft discussion.

He’s somewhat out-of-the-box without a center’s shot-blocking numbers or a forward’s shooting ability, but the 6-foot-11 Ighodaro has become super interesting for his ball-handling, passing and paint touch.

A chunk of Marquette’s offense runs through its big man, who can facilitate from the top of the key. He’s been more disruptive defensively this year as well.

NBA teams could eventually see value in the 20s with Ighodaro if they’re willing to settle on a likely reserve who lacks exciting upside.

35. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Grizzlies): Zvonimir Ivišić

• School/Team: Kentucky
• Position: PF/C
• Age: 20, Freshman
• Size: 7-foot-2, 234 lbs

Scouts and Kentucky are still waiting on the NCAA to clear Zvonimir Ivišić, though it’s expected to happen at some point.

There has been a buildup of anticipation for his college debut after he averaged 11.4 points, 3.4 blocks and 1.6 threes for Croatia at the U20 European Championship. At 7-foot-2, his flashes of open-floor ball-handling, drives from the arc and shooting point to enticing upside.

Scouts just want a better feel for how realistic it is, and how legitimate his range, defensive mobility and feel for the game are.

36. New York Knicks (via Jazz): Reed Sheppard

• School/Team: Kentucky
• Position: SG
• Age: 19, Freshman
• Size: 6-foot-3, 187 lbs

The eye test matches the stat that says Reed Sheppard leads Kentucky in box plus-minus.

Lethal from three, making 12 of his first 18 attempts, he’s also made his lineups better with his IQ and quickness used to set up teammates and force turnovers.

If Sheppard continues to light it up from deep, add playmaking and create events on defense, scouts are bound to look past his physical profile, which isn’t even that underwhelming.

A 6-foot-3, 187-pound frame should be able to hold up for a player with his shotmaking and intangibles.

37. Portland Trail Blazers (via Hornets): Wooga Poplar

• School/Team: Miami
• Position: SG
• Age: 20, Junior
• Size: 6-foot-5, 197 lbs

The basket must look like an ocean to Wooga Poplar, who’s already made 19-of-32 3-pointers (59.4%) through five games. It’s a potentially significant development, given his previous lack of three-point volume, and what a consistent jumper could do for such an explosive athlete.

He’s also shown more comfort with a floater, giving Poplar a more complete look for a potentilal NBA scoring 2-guard.

38. Boston Celtics (via Bulls): Riley Kugel

• School/Team: Florida
• Position: SG
• Age: 19, Sophomore
• Size: 6-foot-5, 207 lbs

Riley Kugel’s highlights show an exceptional athlete and three-level shotmaker who can create long strides, elevation or dribble moves.

Inconsistency has made him less persuasive, and a lack of playmaking reduces his margin for error. But there is clear first-round potential tied to Kugel’s tools, explosion, isolation moves and streaky shot.

39. Los Angeles Lakers (via Clippers): Dalton Knecht

• School/team: Tennessee
• Position: SF
• Age: 22, Senior
• Size: 6-foot-6, 204 lbs

Dalton Knecht has been highly convincing with his 6’6″ frame, clean shooting and tough finishes.

While questionable creation, athleticism and defensive potential could prevent the 22-year-old from soaring up boards, he has the type of game scouts could see plugging right into a spot-up scoring role with off-ball shotmaking versatility, line-driving and cutting.

40. LA Clippers (via Raptors): Melvin Ajinca

• School/Team: Saint-Quentin
• Position: SG/SF
• Age: 19, Freshman
• Size: 6-foot-7

Averaging 8.3 points with 19 3-pointers in 12 games, Melvin Ajinca has been mildly productive for a 19-year-old in LNB Pro A.

He hasn’t fully capitalized on the extra eyes he’s drawn following his breakout U19 World Cup performance for France. But the combination of 6-foot-7 size and confident shotmaking should keep interest alive, despite his lack of playmaking and early struggles inside the arc.

41. Houston Rockets (via Nets): Yves Missi

• School/Team: Baylor
• Position: C
• Age: 19, Freshman
• Size: 7 feet, 235 lbs

Scouts initially watching Baylor for Ja’Kobe Walter have come away talking about Yves Missi.
And while there isn’t anything overly unique about his game or potential trajectory, the 7’0″ freshman has consistently used his physical tools and mobility for picking up easy baskets and protecting the rim.

Missi possesses the type of body and movement for scouts to see the offensive rebounding and tremendous shot-blocking rate (2.8 in 19.5 minutes) translating.

42. Portland Trail Blazers (via Hawks): Matthew Cleveland

• School/Team: Miami
• Position: SF
• Age: 21, Junior
• Size: 6-foot-7, 208 lbs

Scouts waiting on Matthew Cleveland’s shooting have to be encouraged by his fresh start with Miami. He’s made 7-of-14 3-pointers in five games while also delivering a higher rate of creation and passing flashes than we saw at Florida State.

Even if scouts don’t see the on-ball stuff carrying over, an improved shot plus Cleveland’s athleticism, short-range touch and motor could be enough for off-ball scoring at the next level.

43. Houston Rockets (via Warriors): Judah Mintz

• School/Team: Syracuse
• Position: PG/SG
• Age: 20, Sophomore
• Size: 6-foot-4, 185 lbs

Aside from adding needed muscle, Judah Mintz looks similar to the mid-range scorer and playmaker he was last season.

With four 20-point games in Syracuse’s last five, he continues to slice through defenses and elevate into jumpers around the key.

Mintz did struggle to separate against Tennessee on Monday, and despite making a pair of threes against Gonzaga on Tuesday, he’s still appears uncomfortable shooting from deep.

However, his ability to apply rim pressure, pull up inside the arc, set up teammates and create turnovers should be enough to draw second-round interest.

44. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Rockets): Trentyn Flowers

• School/Team: Adelaide 36ers
• Position: SG
• Age: 18
• Size: 6-foot-8, 205 lbs

The NBL game has slowed down for Trentyn Flowers, as he’s now at 49.2% from the floor and 43.5% on 3-pointers this season.

The point guard experiment didn’t go well, but his shooting stroke is highly convincing, and that combination of 6-foot-8 size, shotmaking and athleticism doesn’t require high-level creation or decision-making for an off-ball scoring role.

45. New Orleans Pelicans: Alex Karaban

• School/Team: Connecticut
• Position: PF
• Age: 21, Sophomore
• Size: 6-foot-8, 220 lbs

Alex Karaban’s shotmaking has popped during Connecticut’s 5-0 start, with the 6-foot-8, 220-pound sophomore looking a potential stretch-4 fit for the next level.

Aside from shooting 40.7% on 3-pointers, he’s also 19-of-23 inside the arc, negating some concerns over his athletic limitations by making contested jumpers, touch shots and tougher finishes.

46. LA Clippers (via Cavs): Dillon Jones

• School/Team: Weber State
• Position: SG/SF
• Age: 22, Junior
• Size: 6-foot-6, 235 lbs

Averaging 22 points on 65.1% true shooting, Dillon Jones is off to an eye-opening start that’s highlighting his unique mix of physicality, ball-handling and pull-up shotmaking.

Scouts may question his fit and whether he’ll be useful enough off the ball or elusive enough creating. But he’s become an interesting second-round option with his ability to navigate off the dribble at 235 pounds, finish with power or adjustments, win rebounding battles and defend different archetypes.

47. Washington Wizards (via Suns): Berke Buyuktuncel

• School/Team: UCLA
• Position: SF
• Age: 19, Freshman
• Size: 6-foot-9, 245 lbs

Berke Buyuktuncel was just ruled eligible, so a rough first two games weren’t surprising. Once he gets comfortable, NBA teams are bound to admire his mix of shotmaking and passing for a 6’9″, 19-year-old forward.
As long as his athletic limitations don’t raise serious red flags, his U20 European Championship performance with Turkey, his archetype and UCLA flashes should be enough to get him drafted.

48. Philadelphia 76ers (via Knicks): Kobe Johnson

• School/Team: USC
• Position: SG/SF
• Age: 20, Junior
• Size: 6-foot-6, 200 lbs

Kobe Johnson has the glue-guy skill set and intangibles with his passing, defense and off-ball finishing.
Early signs point to the junior being focused on showcasing more creation and shooting range. He should be able to generate extra attention this year as the key cog on a talented USC team.

49. San Antonio Spurs (via Lakers): Tyler Kolek

• School/Team: Marquette
• Position: PG
• Age: 22, Junior
• Size: 6-foot-3, 195 lbs

NBA teams searching for more playmaking could target Tyler Kolek in the second round.
While he has obvious athletic and defensive limitations, his pace, passing IQ and finishing touch are excellent and could translate to effective pick-and-roll offense at the level.

With an accurate shooting stroke off the catch and dribble, Kolek should have enough in his bag to convince teams to look past his physical flaws.

50. Indiana Pacers: Nikola Djurisic

• School/Team: Mega MIS
• Position: SG/SF
• Age: 19
• Size: 6-foot-7, 214 lbs

Nikola Djurisic is still struggling with shooting consistency, but there aren’t any questions about his shotmaking capability, and he’s still providing impressive playmaking ability that helps separate him from other 6-foot-8 wings.

Though it would be difficult to draw first-round interest after another season shooting below 30% on 3-pointers, a 19-year-old with potential shoot-dribble-pass connector skills should still seem like an appealing second-round gamble.

51. Sacramento Kings: Terrence Shannon Jr.

• School/Team: Illinois
• Position: SG/SF
• Age: 23, Senior
• Size: 6-foot-6, 215 lbs

Terrence Shannon Jr. is on pace to up his 3-point attempts and assist percentage for the fourth consecutive season.

Scouts have wanted to see more consistent shooting and functional playmaking to complement his 6’6″ size and athleticism for slashing and defense.

Shannon appears on track to offer enough shotmaking and secondary creation to justify wide-ranging NBA interest.

52. Orlando Magic: Reece Beekman

• School/Team: Virginia
• Position: PG
• Age: 22, Senior
• Size: 6-foot-3, 194 lbs

Moving up draft boards will require Reece Beekman to show some shooting improvement. He’s still an interesting second-round option for his two-way playmaking. Some teams could find use for his passing IQ to run offense and pesky defense around the perimeter.

He’ll really help himself by looking more confident with his pull-up and three-ball. Right now, it’s difficult to picture him self-creating or scoring at the next level, which is a potential issue in today’s NBA for a lead guard.

53. Atlanta Hawks (via Heat): AJ Johnson

• School/Team: Illawarra Hawks
• Position: SG
• Age: 18
• Size: 6-foot-5, 161 lbs

Playing just 7.6 minutes per game, AJ Johnson may already be looking forward to predraft workouts, where he’ll have a better opportunity to sell teams on his positional size and shotmaking.

He could be the NBA’s youngest player next year, turning 19 on December 1. So he’d presumably spend next season getting reps in the G League.

Johnson has obvious talent and some scoring and playmaking skill, but his execution, physicality and decision-making are lagging.

54. Boston Celtics (via Mavs): Hunter Sallis

• School/Team: Wake Forest
• Position: SG
• Age: 21, Junior
• Size: 6-foot-7, 208 lbs

Wake Forest has helped unlock some of Hunter Sallis’ creation and confidence that was seemingly masked at Gonzaga. With extra freedom, he’s delivered more three-level scoring with his slashing and shotmaking.
His athleticism has popped around the rim on finishes and blocked shots as well. It’s pretty clear Sallis won’t offer much playmaking, which means he’ll be boxed into one backcourt position.

If the improved shooting is real, though, it could be enough for an NBA 2-guard when paired with his tools and bounce .

55. Indiana Pacers (via Bucks): Dillon Mitchell

• School/Team: Texas
• Position: PF
• Age: 20, Sophomore
• Size: 6-foot-8, 205 lbs

A breakout 21-point game against Connecticut highlighted Dillon Mitchell’s ability to make an impact with bounce and aggression around the basket.

But he also flashed some intriguing mid-range shotmaking, which would give him a needed, extra dimension of offense to threaten defenses with.

Still, if a team is going to take a chance on Mitchell, it will be for an off-ball energizer role that calls on him to finish, crash the glass and make plays defensively.

56. Houston Rockets (via Thunder): Antonio Reeves

• School/Team: Kentucky
• Position: SG
• Age: 23, Senior
• Size: 6-foot-6, 195 lbs

Late in the second round, a team may forget about Antonio Reeves’ age and roll the dice on a 6’6″ guard with special shotmaking ability.

He could have enough size and scoring confidence to compete for an instant-offense scoring role off a bench.

57. Denver Nuggets (via Timberwolves): Zach Edey

• School/Team: Purdue
• Position: Center
• Age: 21, Senior
• Size: 7-foot-4, 300 lbs

Zach Edey aced his first real test with 25 points and 14 boards against Gonzaga on Monday. Early on, he’s blocking more shots (3.7 per game) and shooting better from the free-throw line (80%), both promising developments for his potential to earn NBA minutes despite lacking any perimeter skill or defensive switchability.

Listed at 300 pounds, he would be the heaviest player in the league as a rookie.

58. Charlotte Hornets (via Celtics): DaRon Holmes II

• School/Team: Dayton
• Position: C
• Age: 21, Junior
• Size: 6-foot-10, 235 lbs

DaRon Holmes II has already attempted 10 3-pointers in five games, a sign he’s trying to show scouts a more modernized skill set. Trying to showcase new versatility has come at a cost, as he hasn’t been as efficient scoring early on.

Teams could deem his finishing, rebounding and shot-blocking tools worth drafting, though starting hit jumpers and putting the ball down will be key to moving up boards.

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Jonathan Wasserman is the lead scout and NBA Draft analyst for Bleacher Report. You can follow him on  X, formerly known as Twitter.The views on this page do not necessarily reflect the views of the NBA, its clubs or Warner Brothers Discovery.

Stats courtesy of Synergy Sports and Sports Reference.