Will DJ Burns get drafted in the second round? Exploring NC State star's chances of being picked in 2024 NBA Draft
Former NC State big man DJ Burns became the star in the 2024 March Madness after leading the Wolfpack to a stunning appearance in the Final Four. He declared for the 2024 NBA draft afterward, and his draft status is one of the most intriguing to fans this year.
According to 247Sports, Burns will likely go undrafted in the 2024 class. He had a pre-draft workout with the Indiana Pacers on June 13. Burns is likely to get a summer league contract after the draft ends.
According to HoopsHype, Burns worked out with his hometown franchise, the Charlotte Hornets, and he appeals to them as an undrafted prospect because of his ties to Rock Hill, South Carolina, where he grew up.
After working out with the Pacers, Burns said he could compete in the high-intensity practice because he had lost 45 pounds over a punishing few weeks of working out.
"Playing at the pace that we played today, doing the work that we did today I probably would have left out with a full-body cramp a couple months ago," Burns said (h/t IndyStar).
DJ Burns said what he hoped to bring to any team that drafts him.
"Just the post-game and my ability to be a good teammate, be a good passer," Burns said. "Be someone that people enjoy being around. Nobody wants to be around a guy who's going to kill the energy of the team. I feel like that's definitely something I bring."
DJ Burns gets high praise from ex-NBA star
During an episode of the "Podcast P Show," former NBA star Zach Randolph spoke about Burns' NBA draft status, advising him on things he needed to improve to increase his desirability to teams.
"I think San Antonio would be good," Zach Randolph said. "Pop would put him in the right positions. I think he can help a team out like that and come in and make a difference. I like him. I like the kid, man. For me, I told him from a basketball standpoint, just get in the best shape you can. Lose as much weight as you can. Work on your shot.
"You know, the game has changed. The NBA has changed. They play a different style. I told him just go out there and get your money, work hard and believe in yourself."
DJ Burns has ensured that many college hoops fans will have a vested interest in how the second round of the NBA draft will pan out after becoming renowned during March Madness.