2024 NBA Draft: Drama heats up as late contender emerges in race for Atlanta Hawks’ No. 1 pick

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We’ve entered smokescreen season with the NBA Draft just one week away, but there is a sliver of a sightline emerging for the No. 1 pick. And as has been the case several times in recent years, there’s a final twist as we enter the homestretch. 

For weeks it has seemed like Alex Sarr and Zaccharie Risacher were battling to be taken by the Atlanta Hawks at the No. 1 spot. However, 7-footer Donovan Clingan may be elbowing his way into the discussion to make it a three-man race. ESPN reported Wednesday that Clingan appears to be Risacher’s main rival at No. 1, citing his solid workout with the Hawks. The franchise hasn’t yet been able to bring Sarr in for a private evaluation. Risacher remains the favorite at No. 1 — as has been the case for over a week after leaping Sarr in my latest mock — but this decision is far from made for Atlanta.

There also remains the possibility of Atlanta trading down to net further assets, which would add an interesting wrinkle.

For now, it’s safe to say three options are most likely to be called No. 1 on draft night by NBA commissioner Adam Silver. I have listed them below from my most likely to least. (Betting odds are based on current DraftKings lines and subject to change.)

1. Zaccharie Risacher

No. 1 pick odds: +150 The case: Risacher shot 35.2% from 3-point range this season with JL Bourg in Pro A competition. He rated in the 92nd percentile in transition and 81st percentile in catch-and-shoot situations, per Synergy data. He’s a developmental prospect, but the frame and production profile are tantalizing, and safe, in a draft that has a lot of unknowns.

Risacher appears to be in the driver’s seat for the No. 1 spot should Atlanta choose to stay at the top of the board. Team decision-makers have done their due diligence on the French forward and even made the trip overseas to scout him up close as he finished his season…

Source link : https://www.cbssports.com/nba/news/2024-nba-draft-drama-heats-up-as-late-contender-emerges-in-race-for-atlanta-hawks-no-1-pick/

Author : Kyle Boone

Publish date : 2024-06-19 17:04:56

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