Atlanta Hawks 2024 NBA Mock Draft: Projected picks and more
The Atlanta Hawks only have one pick in the upcoming 2024 NBA Draft which is to be held on June 26th and 27th. While they only have one pick available, it also happens to be the most valuable as they won the number one pick during the draft lottery that was held on May 12.
The Hawks failed to secure a postseason berth in the 2024 Playoffs and were eliminated in the first round two years ago. With these results, it is clear that they need to make some changes to their roster which is why picking the right prospect is vital.
Unlike last year when the San Antonio Spurs took Victor Wembanyama, there is no clear number 1 overall pick. However, that does not mean that prospects in this year's draft won't turn into stars. With that in mind, here are the draftees whom the Atlanta Hawks could take with the number one overall pick.
Atlanta Hawks 2024 Mock Draft
#1 Zaccharie Rissacher | Guard/Forward | France
Many regard Zaccharie Rissacher as the number one overall pick in the upcoming draft. He can quickly turn into an off-the-ball offensive threat that compliments the playstyle of either Dejounte Murray or Trae Young. Plus, he has the height, the length, and the athleticism to be a factor on defense.
#2 Donovan Clingan | Center | Connecticut
While Clint Capela is a decent interior defender, he does not have the skills that make him a threat on offense. Bringing in a 7-foot-2 center like Donovan Clingan to be an impact player on both offense and defense could result in Atlanta being one of the best teams on either side of the ball soon.
#3 Alex Sarr | Center | France/Perth
Alex Sarr reportedly declined to workout with the Atlanta Hawks which sends the message that he'd rather be drafted by other teams. While he has not explicitly stated that he does not want to play for the Hawks, his refusal to participate in a private workout could lead to him missing out on being drafted number 1.
However, this does not mean that the Hawks shouldn't take him. Sarr's best asset is his defensive ability, especially around the rim. He is also a reliable stretch big who could benefit from playing with a ball-dominant guard.
#4 Reed Sheppard | Shooting Guard | Kentucky
Both the names of Dejounte Murray and Trae Young are being brought up in trade rumors and if one of them does go, the Atlanta Hawks will need to plug the hole they'll leave. Reed Shepard is a sharp-shooting combo guard who can be the lead ball handler at times and could replace either member of the Hawks' All-Star backcourt.
#5 Matas Buzelis | Forward | G-League Ignite
Matas Buzelis' lone season in the G-League Ignite can be considered an anomaly as his shooting stroke seems to have abandoned him. However, if he can find his range again, the 6-foot-10 forward could help the Atlanta Hawks become an elite offensive squad.
His combination of size, skill, and athleticism makes him an appealing prospect to take with the first pick regardless of how the Hawks' roster looks like coming into the 2024-25 season.
Also read: New York Knicks 2024 NBA Mock Draft: Projected picks and more