2024 NBA Draft: A Weak Class with Hidden Gems
The 2023-24 NBA season is over, and the focus has shifted to the upcoming NBA draft. However, there’s not much buzz surrounding this year’s draft class. In fact, multiple NBA executives are calling it the worst draft they’ve ever seen.
Unlike previous years, there are no standout stars like Victor Wembanyama, Zion Williamson, Paolo Banchero, or Cade Cunningham to dominate the conversation. Instead, there’s a heated debate over which players have the highest floors and upsides. Names like Zachary Rishard, Alex Sarr, Donovan Kingan, Ron Holland II, Reed Shepard, Stefon Castle, Devin Carter, Robert Dillingham, and Mattis Buelles are being mentioned as potential picks for any franchise.
The 2024 NBA draft class is not getting much love from experts compared to the 2023 draft. Last year’s draft was stacked with talent from both overseas and American college basketball. In 2023, everyone was buzzing about Victor Wembanyama, the top pick by the San Antonio Spurs. Brandon Miller went second to the Charlotte Hornets, and Scoot Henderson picked third by the Portland Trailblazers.
For 2024, the buzz isn’t nearly as loud. Another French player, Zachary Rishard, was the top pick and was selected by the Atlanta Hawks. Alex Sarr, a 7’1 center, was picked up at number two by the Washington Wizards. Ron Holland, an 18-year-old wing for the G-League Ignite, is the most talked about American prospect.
From the college scene, freshmen were once again in the spotlight. Cays Reed Shepard, the SEC freshman of the year, and Rob Dillingham got top 10 picks. March Madness standouts like Purdue’s Zach Edey and Tennessee’s Dalton Kincaid also made first-round appearances.
Overall, the perception of this draft class isn’t great. One major criticism is the lack of clear cash prize prospects like Bronny James or Shaedon Sharpe. It reminds you of the 2013 draft, where Anthony Bennett went number one and was a major bust.
However, there are some hidden gems in this year’s draft. Dalton Kincaid to the Los Angeles Lakers at number 17 is one example. Kincaid was the best perimeter scorer in college basketball last season and has the physical tools to be a standout wing. Jonathan Kingan to the Portland Trailblazers at number seven is another steal. Kingan was widely seen as a top three prospect but fell to number seven.
While the 2024 NBA draft may not have the same star power as previous years, it still offers plenty of potential. There are players who excel in specific areas and can carve out long NBA careers. With time and development, some of these players could become All-Stars.
