Zaccharie Risacher 2024 NBA Draft: Player comparison and projected draft pick for consensus lottery selection
French sharpshooter Zaccharie Risacher has made a name for himself in basketball. CBS Sports has listed Risacher as the early leader for the No. 1 overall spot in this mock draft through a future class, following his strong performances in the EuroCup. He averaged 13.1 points and 3.6 rebounds per game and shot 56.6% from the field. So, who does this interesting draft prospect remind you of, and where will he likely fall in the 2024 NBA Draft?
Risacher possesses an NBA-wing frame standing at 6-foot-8. However, unlike a lot of long and lanky prospects, he has a muscular body, which translates to physicality on the court. The 6-foot-8 Risacher has good athleticism, which enables him to complete through calls at the edge and use higher length for rebounds.
It is offensive versatility that truly separates Risacher. He is a smooth shooter all around with some range from deep. Risacher's crafty hesitation move and quick first step allow him to get by defenders by creating his own shot off the dribble.
One of his NBA player comparisons is Otto Porter Jr. of the Toronto Raptors. They are both big forwards who can score, though Risacher has arguably more potential than Porter did when he was picked in 2013 out of Georgetown.
Zaccharie Risacher vs. Otto Porter — Strengths
Risacher has a slight edge in offensive creativity. He already has a dank step-back game, can take you off the dribble and finish over your tall-based defense, or pull up from three with nice rhythm form. Porter blossomed into a consistent scorer, but he didn't have as developed an offensive repertoire — mainly relying on catch-and-shoot opportunities and his ability to cut.
Porter's calling card was always defense. Combine his long wingspan with a disciplined approach, and he was an absolute terror on the perimeter. He was a versatile defender who could defend multiple positions, get steals, and be in passing lanes. Risacher has the potential to be a good defender.
Zaccharie Risacher vs. Otto Porter — Weaknesses
Risacher has potential because of the skill set he brings, but his defense still needs a lot of fine-tuning. He can have major problems with more physical wings that push him around inside. His lateral quickness also must be better to keep in front of fidgety guards. That might leave him vulnerable to the occasional perimeter-driving blowby, especially early in his NBA career.
Otto Porter, while a reliable scorer, wasn't known for creating his own offense. He thrived in situations where teammates set him up for easy baskets or open 3-pointers. This could limit his effectiveness on teams lacking a strong playmaker.
Zaccharie Risacher's other NBA comparisons and draft projection
While Otto Porter offers a valuable comparison for Risacher's skill set, NBA analysts are throwing around a few other names to capture the French prospect's potential.
Micheal Porter Jr: Like Porter Jr, Risacher boasts a smooth shooting stroke, the ability to create offense off the dribble, and a strong 3-point game (though MPJ's game is more polished).
Rudy Gay: This comparison highlights Risacher's athleticism and scoring prowess. However, Gay never quite reached his full potential defensively, which is an area where Risacher can improve.
Instead of the one or two clear generational talents that usually dominate a draft, this class doesn't have a single top-dog prospect. Size, athleticism, and offensive potential make Risacher the safest bet at the top pick.
The Atlanta Hawks have the top pick and they so desperately need a young star to carry them. His versatility and instant-impact ability were an obvious fit for a gaping vacancy on the roster.