Guest of the League
Like Mike
Offseason | NBA Week 26

NBA mock draft: Projecting the top 14 post-lottery

Sun May 12 4:49pm ET
Field Level Media

The NBA draft lottery is complete, the order of the top 14 picks is cemented and the Atlanta Hawks are on the clock.

With about six weeks left before the draft begins June 27, Field Level Media takes a crack at projecting the lottery picks. There is no can't-miss star like Victor Wembanyama atop this year's draft board, but we may see a French big man go first overall for the second year running.

1. Atlanta Hawks: Alexandre Sarr, F/C, Perth Wildcats

The Hawks, who had just a 3 percent chance to win the No. 1 pick, now have every option in front of them. The answer, though, should be Sarr as a successor to Clint Capela. Tall, lean, mobile and talented as a ball-handler and passer, Sarr's most pressing task will be to bolster one of the league's worst defenses.


2. Washington Wizards: Donovan Clingan, C, UConn

Clingan isn't just any old college center. He's a 7-foot-2 monster in the interior with a 7-foot-7 wingspan who played a crucial role helping the Huskies win back-to-back national championships. His rim protection will make the Wizards' ghastly defense better and he'll be a persistent dunk threat teamed with Kyle Kuzma in the frontcourt.

3. Houston Rockets: Zaccharie Risacher, F, JL Bourg

This Frenchman's most notable trait is his 3-point shot, which he's connected on at ridiculous levels playing in his home nation's top league. Doing the same for Houston is another matter, but Risacher has the right build to fit in on the wing for a Rockets team that can take its time with him as it completes its rebuild.

4. San Antonio Spurs: Rob Dillingham, G, Kentucky

Rob, meet Victor. Gregg Popovich will make sure you get along splendidly. Perhaps the best point guard in a class with several near the top, Dillingham offers the complete package on offense (15.2 points, 3.9 assists per game, 44.4 percent shooting from deep at Kentucky).

5. Detroit Pistons: Reed Sheppard, G, Kentucky

Sheppard went from being the fifth-most hyped freshman in Kentucky's class to the consensus National Freshman of the Year. It helps to make more than half your 3-pointers and grab 2.5 steals a game. The Pistons tied for the fewest made 3-pointers per game and need a catch-and-shoot threat like Sheppard.

6. Charlotte Hornets: Nikola Topic, G, Red Star Belgrade

Topic's size (6-foot-6 or 6-foot-7, depending on your source), scoring and playmaking ability have powered his rise up draft boards this season. After dominating the Adriatic League, the 18-year-old projects as a major backcourt addition for any NBA team, but especially the Hornets, who need more playmaking guards especially considering LaMelo Ball's injury history.

7. Portland Trail Blazers: Matas Buzelis, F, G League Ignite

The 6-foot-11 Lithuanian-American offers a lot to Scoot Henderson and the Blazers. He averaged 14.3 points, 6.9 rebounds, 1.9 assists and 2.1 blocks per game in the G League regular season and comes from multiple generations of basketball pros, highlighted by his IQ.

8. San Antonio Spurs: Dalton Knecht, F, Tennessee

Knecht took the Southeastern Conference by storm as an offensive machine for the Vols and won league Player of the Year honors. He's already 23 years old, but the Spurs ranked 28th in 3-point percentage last year and Knecht offers a jolt in that department from Day One.

9. Memphis Grizzlies: Ron Holland, F, G League Ignite

Memphis may be getting a steal in Holland, once considered a potential No. 1 overall pick before an up-and-down G League season. At his best, Holland scores at will attacking the basket and is a threat as a passer and defender. The Grizzlies owned the worst scoring offense in the NBA, but they get Ja Morant back and Holland can give him another option.

10. Utah Jazz: Cody Williams, F, Colorado

Williams scored 11.9 points per game in his lone year at Colorado and shot 41.5 percent from 3-point range -- though he attempted fewer than two per game. The brother of Oklahoma City's Jalen Williams will bring great size on the wing (6-foot-8, 7-foot-1 wingspan) to the worst perimeter defending team of 2023-24.

11. Chicago Bulls: Stephon Castle, G, UConn

Part of the reason UConn managed to win another national title was that Castle so ably stepped into the point guard role as a freshman, but he can play either guard role. He facilitates, defends, hustles and drives to the rim, making him a great backcourt complement to Coby White -- especially if the Bulls bid farewell to Zach LaVine.

12. Oklahoma City Thunder: Devin Carter, G, Providence

The Thunder own this pick via the Rockets, yet they have no pressing needs. Why not help themselves to a guard prospect who can do a little of everything? Carter's stock soared as he averaged 19.7 points, 8.7 boards, 3.6 assists and 1.8 steals this season.

13. Sacramento Kings: Zach Edey, C, Purdue

He's a controversial prospect for complex reasons, but don't overthink it: Edey is 7-foot-4, scores and rebounds everything he sees and -- most importantly for Sacramento -- protects the rim in a way Domantas Sabonis doesn't. The Kings aren't hard-pressed for an immediate starter, but someone of Edey's caliber spelling Sabonis should get coach Mike Brown's wheels turning.

14. Portland Trail Blazers: Ja'Kobe Walter, G, Baylor

For Portland's second pick in the lottery, Walter can provide something the Blazers desperately need: shot-making. Portland ranked dead-last in 3-point shooting (34.5 percent) and second-to-last in overall field-goal percentage (43.9 percent) last season.

Player Notes
Aaron Gordon Mon May 13 9:50am

Denver Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon had a red-hot outing against the Timberwolves in Game 4 on Sunday, hitting 27 points with 11-for-12 shooting from the field. Gordon's only miss came on a jump shot 3:39 from the end when the Nuggets were already cruising to victory. He made both attempts from deep and shot 3-for-3 at the line, capping off the night with seven rebounds, six assists, two blocks, and one steal. Gordon set his career playoff high with 29 points versus the Lakers a couple of weeks back and now boasts three 20-plus efforts in total this postseason. He's been extremely efficient with his work on the offensive end against Minnesota, averaging 17.8 points, 4.0 rebounds, 4.8 assists, and 1.5 steals with 71.8 percent shooting.

Nikola Jokic Mon May 13 9:40am

Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic shot 15-for-26 from the field en route to 35 points in Sunday's Game 4 victory against Minnesota. The three-time MVP produced his highest-scoring performance of the 2024 playoffs, helping the defending champs tie the second-round series. Four of Jokic's misses came with five attempts from deep as he also collected seven rebounds, seven assists, three steals, and one block to his account. After struggling for efficiency at the start of the series against Minnesota, Jokic has shot 25-for-44 across the last two games. With him in improved form, the Nuggets have begun to turn the series around and can go up 3-2 on home court Tuesday night.

T.J. McConnell Mon May 13 9:30am

Indiana Pacers point guard T.J. McConnell played a big part in Sunday's 121-89 win over the Knicks with 15 points and 10 assists off the bench. Additionally, he registered four rebounds and two steals across 21 minutes of action, shooting 6-for-12 from the field and making both of his attempts from three-point range. McConnell had a strong finish with a 20-point effort in the first round, and his importance has continued to grow in the series against the Knicks. The 32-year-old has posted two double-doubles through four games, averaging 12.3 points, 3.0 rebounds, 6.5 assists, and 1.5 steals.

Alec Burks Mon May 13 9:30am

New York Knicks guard/forward Alec Burks finished as the team's top scorer with 20 points as Tom Thibodeau's troops struggled all game against Indiana on Sunday, losing 121-89. The Knicks were already down by 20 after the first quarter, and the bench guys, including Burks, ended up getting a good amount of minutes. Burks made good use of his 23 minutes on the floor, shooting 5-for-11 from the field and 8-for-10 at the line with two made triples. He was also active on the boards with five rebounds and dished out a pair of assists. Injuries have disrupted Thibodeau's plans in the postseason, with Burks making his first playoff appearance of the year in Game 2 against the Pacers. He's averaged a solid 17.0 points and 4.5 rebounds in 22 minutes across the last two games.

Wendell Carter Jr. Sun May 12 9:00pm

Orlando Magic center Wendell Carter Jr. (hand) will undergo surgery. The 25-year-old fractured his left hand in November, limiting him to 55 games last season. But now he'll need another procedure on the same hand to "stabilize the third metacarpal." Carter, who will be re-evaluated in roughly four weeks following the procedure, is expected to make a full recovery. The 2018 No. 7 overall pick had one of the best seasons of his career in 2022-23, averaging 15.2 points and 8.7 assists. However, he took a step backward in both categories last season. Assuming he stays healthy, Carter has a chance to bounce back this season, although many fantasy managers will look past him due to his health and statistical regression.

Jonathan Kuminga Sun May 12 8:50pm

According to ESPN's Ramona Shelburne, speaking on 95.7 The Game, the Warriors aren't expected to trade forward Jonathan Kuminga this summer. The Warriors undoubtedly need to tweak the roster to compete in a stacked Western Conference. But Kuminga, who was once rumored to be on the move, is anticipated to remain included in the team's plans moving ahead. The 21-year-old had a rough start to the 2023-24 campaign. However, he averaged 18.7 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 2.8 assists in 41 games to end the year. With that said, Kuminga appears ready to take a leap in his development, and he'll likely see more than enough interest from fantasy managers heading toward the new season.

Isaiah Hartenstein Sun May 12 8:40pm

New York Knicks forward/center Isaiah Hartenstein (shoulder) finished with five boards and four points in Sunday's blowout loss to the Indiana Pacers. The Knicks struggled in Game 4, with Jalen Brunson the only starter to reach double figures on the scoring end. However, and more importantly, Harteinstein indicated after the loss that he may have pinched a nerve in his shoulder. This is concerning, considering the team is without Mitchell Robinson (ankle), OG Anunoby (hamstring), and Bojan Bogdanovic (ankle). At any rate, Hartenstein stated X-rays were negative and that he would play in Game 5 on Tuesday night. But if he can't make it out there, Jericho Sims and Precious Achiuwa would see more action, with the latter being the more dependable DFS option.

Luke Kornet Sun May 12 8:30pm

Boston Celtics center Luke Kornet (calf) is probable for Monday's meeting with the Cavaliers. He's dealing with calf tightness. However, even with Kristaps Porzingis (calf) sidelined, Kornet has averaged 4.7 points and 3.0 points during the Conference semifinals, meaning his status for Game 4 won't make a difference for DFS participants.

Donovan Mitchell Sun May 12 8:20pm

Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (calf) is questionable for Monday's playoff showdown with the Celtics. He popped up on the injury report because of a strained left calf. Yet, the Cavs are looking to knot things up, so fantasy managers should expect to see Mitchell on the floor. The 27-year-old has played exceptionally well in the series, averaging 31.7 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 5.3 assists. He's also shot 53.3% from behind the arc, making him one of the top DFS options available on Monday night, assuming he gets the green light to play.

Luka Doncic Sun May 12 8:20pm

Dallas Mavericks guard Luka Doncic (knee, ankle) is questionable for Monday's matchup versus OKC. Doncic has taken a beating throughout the postseason, resulting in multiple appearances on the injury report for various reasons. However, this isn't anything new, so DFS managers should expect to see him on the floor, especially with the Mavs looking to take a decisive lead in the series. With that said, Doncic, coming off a 22-point, 15-rebound, five-assist effort in the win on Saturday, remains the top fantasy option for Monday night, assuming he's available.

Jarrett Allen Sun May 12 8:10pm

Cleveland Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen (rib) is questionable for Monday's postseason battle against Boston. He's carried the same injury designation throughout the series because of a nagging rib contusion. Unfortunately, Allen hasn't been out there. The 26-year-old could be nearing a return, although he may be limited in his first few games back. But if Allen isn't available for Game 4, Isaac Okoro would presumably remain in the starting lineup. On the other hand, Caris LeVert, amassing 36 points in the last two contests from off the bench, is a more dependable DFS option.

Kristaps Porzingis Sun May 12 8:10pm

Boston Celtics center Kristaps Porzingis (calf) remains out for Monday's playoff contest versus the Cavaliers. Porzingis continues to work his way back from a right Soleus strain. With that in mind, it's possible he won't suit up at any point in the series. Fortunately, Al Horford has done a good job filling the void in the middle, with the 37-year-old averaging 6.7 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 2.3 assists in three starts in the Conference semifinals. Luke Kornet (calf), listed as probable for Monday evening, should also continue to receive more minutes from off the bench. However, Horford has a much higher upside for DFS participants.

Aaron Nesmith Sun May 12 3:20pm

Indiana Pacers forward Aaron Nesmith (shoulder) will be good to go for Sunday's Game 4 against the Knicks. He hurt his right shoulder in the previous contest, which gave Nesmith a questionable tag ahead of Game 4. But the team has upgraded Nesmith to available ahead of tip-off. The 24-year-old typically provides a little bit of everything, averaging 10.4 points, 4.2 rebounds, 2.4 assists, 0.9 blocks, and 0.7 steals for the 2024 playoffs.

Tyrese Haliburton Sun May 12 3:10pm

Indiana Pacers point guard Tyrese Haliburton (back, ankle) will play in Game 4 against the Knicks on Sunday. The talented playmaker has suffered multiple injuries during the team's playoff run but will continue to battle on. Haliburton has a chance to post a third consecutive 30-point game on Sunday. He's averaging 25.0 points, 4.0 rebounds, 8.0 assists, and 3.0 steals against the Knicks with 5.0 made triples.

Tyrese Haliburton Sun May 12 12:40am

Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton (back, ankle) is questionable for Sunday's postseason battle with the Knicks. The back spasms aren't new, but he tweaked his ankle in Friday's win, so most had assumed he'd be back on the injury report for Game 4. Haliburton has been on a roll despite the ailments, amassing 69 points, 16 assists, and five steals in his last two appearances. With that type of production, he'll see plenty of attention from DFS managers for Game 4, assuming he's available.

OG Anunoby Sun May 12 12:30am

New York Knicks forward OG Anunoby (hamstring) won't play in Sunday's playoff matchup with the Pacers. The former Raptor injured his left hamstring in Game 2 and wasn't available for the loss of Friday night. While he is with the team in Indiana and receiving multiple treatment sessions daily, there's a chance he could miss more games moving ahead. Nonetheless, until Anunoby is back on the floor, Precious Achiuwa and Alec Burks should continue to see more minutes. However, Burks scored 14 points in Game 3, so he'll be the preferred DFS option over Achiuwa.

Bam Adebayo Sat May 11 12:40pm

According to Anthony Chiang of the Miami Herald, the Heat are expected to offer center Bam Adebayo an extension that will keep him in South Beach for "years to come." Adebayo has two years remaining on his current deal. But the 26-year-old is coming off another potent season, averaging 19.3 points and a career-high 10.4 rebounds, so the latest update is a no-brainer. He also developed a shot from deep, ending the 2023-24 campaign by shooting 35.7% from behind the arc. Miami could go in several different directions over the summer. However, the roster will be constructed around Adebayo moving ahead, meaning the chances of Tyler Herro and Jimmy Butler being moved are higher than ever. At any rate, no matter who is on the roster come training camp, Adebayo will go early in fantasy drafts heading toward the regular season.

Josh Hart Fri May 10 10:50pm

New York Knicks forward Josh Hart had a double-double in Friday's playoff matchup with Indiana. Unfortunately, it wasn't enough, with the Knicks dropping their first game of the series. Jalen Brunson (foot) wasn't himself after tweaking his foot in Game 2. While Donte DiVincenzo had a team-high 35 points, Hart still scored 10 points while adding 18 rebounds, four assists, and two steals. The 29-year-old has been on a roll during the postseason, and he should continue to see heavy minutes in Game 4 on Sunday afternoon, especially if OG Anunoby (hamstring) remains out.

Donte DiVincenzo Fri May 10 10:50pm

New York Knicks guard Donte DiVincenzo had a team-high 35 points in Friday's loss to the Pacers. He added three boards, two assists, one steal, and one block. Jalen Brunson (foot) isn't fully healthy after tweaking his foot in Game 2. However, DiVincenzo picked up the slack, going 12-for-26 from the floor and an efficient 7-for-11 from behind the three-point line. The 27-year-old has played well of late, averaging 29.3 points and shooting 56.3% from deep during this series. With numbers like that, DiVincenzo will see plenty of interest from DFS managers for Game 4 on Sunday afternoon.

Jalen Brunson Fri May 10 10:50pm

New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (foot) finished with a team-high 26 points in Friday's loss to Indiana. The former Maverick injured his right foot in Game 2 and carried a questionable tag heading into this contest. While he managed to suit up, he reinjured his foot in the first quarter, taking him off the floor for a few minutes. Brunson also had five turnovers in Game 3, so the ailment appears to be impacting his play. However, he should remain on the DFS radar for Game 4 on Sunday despite his recent decline in production.