2024 NBA Mock Draft: Grizzlies add key piece in lottery, Pistons get future star
The Grizzlies select a high-upside forward in this mock draft.
By Tyler Watts
The 2024 NBA Draft is just over five months away, and there is still plenty to figure out. There is no consensus number one overall pick and much of the lottery is uncertain at this stage. The class is projected to be one of the worst in recent memory, but there will be All-Stars and game-changers available.
The Memphis Grizzlies lost superstar Ja Morant to a season-ending injury after he played just nine games. Memphis could make moves, but they figure to be selecting near the top of the lottery after their lost season. The franchise needs a bit more talent around Morant, Desmond Bane, and Jaren Jackson, but can they find the diamond in the rough?
This draft could be full of surprises, so here is an early look at a full first round mock. The order is based on the standings on the morning of Jan. 12. There is a ton of basketball to be played and the lottery will further shake things up, but here is where teams stand and who they would target if the draft happened in mid-January.
1. Detroit Pistons select Alex Sarr
The Pistons are in the middle of an abysmal season and must go best player available. Cade Cunningham remains a key piece of the future in Detroit, but the franchise needs top-end talent. This draft is light on projectable stars, but none have shined brighter than Sarr.
The 7’1 big man has a 7’4 wingspan. He has been sidelined with a hip injury, but the 18-year-old showed plenty in his first 21 games for Perth in the NBL. Sarr is averaging 9.8 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks in 18.8 minutes per game. He has displayed the versatility to protect the rim and switch onto the perimeter. Scouts are excited by his upside on both ends of the floor.
Sarr has taken 53 3-point attempts this season but is shooting just 28.3 percent. Can he consistently knockdown jumpers? It is certainly something the 7’1 teenager is working on, and if his upside lies as a versatile stretch four who can protect the rim and space the floor.
The Detroit Pistons have a glut of big men, but Alex Sarr would vault to the top of their development list. He should be able to play next to Jalen Duren and could be the franchise’s future star if they land the number one overall pick in June’s draft.