Revisiting the 2024 NBA Draft: A Redraft Analysis One Year Later
The 2024 NBA Draft was always destined to be one of the more intriguing classes in recent memory. Unlike drafts headlined by clear-cut generational prospects such as Victor Wembanyama, Anthony Edwards, or Cade Cunningham, the 2024 crop lacked a consensus number one. On draft night, there were at least ten different players who could plausibly emerge as the best of the class.
Now, nearly a year and a half into their professional careers, the picture is beginning to sharpen. Some rookies have already exceeded expectations, others are finding their footing, and a few have struggled to adapt. With enough evidence to evaluate early trajectories, it’s time to revisit the 2024 draft board and conduct a redraft—slotting players based on performance, potential, and fit.
Atlanta Hawks at No. 1: Zacharie Risacher’s Reality
The Hawks won the lottery and selected French wing Zacharie Risacher. Leading up to the draft, Atlanta’s front office traveled overseas to scout him extensively. Risacher possessed size, shooting touch, and defensive versatility, but questions lingered about his aggressiveness and ability to create.
Year one has been uneven. Risacher has shown flashes as a three-point shooter but has struggled with confidence and consistency. Defensively, lapses have been frequent. With Trae Young sidelined early, the Hawks leaned heavily on Jalen Johnson and Nickeil Alexander-Walker, leaving Risacher marginalized.
In hindsight, Atlanta may regret passing on Stephon Castle or Alex Sarr. Risacher still has potential, but his trajectory suggests he may not live up to the billing of a No. 1 overall pick.
No. 2: Stephon Castle, Rookie of the Year
Castle, drafted by San Antonio, quickly validated his selection. Winning Rookie of the Year, Castle showcased defensive tenacity, poise, and adaptability. Sharing a backcourt with De’Aaron Fox, he proved he could coexist with another ball-dominant guard.
Castle’s defensive possessions against stars like Jalen Brunson and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander in the NBA Cup tournament highlighted his potential as a stopper. Offensively, he has improved shot selection and efficiency. His ability to contribute immediately in a winning environment sets him apart.
In a redraft, Castle would be the clear No. 1.
No. 3: Alex Sarr, the Long-Term Bet
Originally ranked by many analysts as the top prospect, Alex Sarr slid to Washington. At seven feet, Sarr combines mobility, ball-handling, and rim protection. His rookie season was quiet, but year two has shown growth: better shot selection, improved efficiency, and flashes of defensive dominance.
Playing in Washington’s rebuilding environment has slowed his exposure, but his ceiling remains immense. In a redraft, Sarr would go second overall, behind Castle but ahead of Risacher.
No. 4: Reed Sheppard, Houston’s Steal
The Rockets selected Reed Sheppard out of Kentucky, and while his rookie season was limited, year two has been revelatory. With Fred VanVleet sidelined by injury, Sheppard stepped into a larger role and thrived.
An elite three-point shooter, Sheppard has provided spacing and scoring punch. His ceiling may not match Matas Buzelis or Ron Holland, but his fit in Houston’s system is undeniable. In a redraft, Sheppard stays at No. 3, cementing his value.
No. 5: Matas Buzelis, Chicago’s Wing of the Future
Matas Buzelis entered the league with hype as a versatile wing. His sophomore season has been uneven, with shooting slumps and flashes of brilliance. His athleticism and connection with teammates like Josh Giddey suggest long-term potential.
San Antonio, in hindsight, might have taken Buzelis at No. 4 to pair with Wembanyama. His ceiling remains high, though consistency is needed.
No. 6: Ron Holland, Detroit’s Defensive Anchor
Ron Holland, from the G League Ignite, was drafted by Detroit. His defense and athleticism have impressed, though offensive polish remains a work in progress. Detroit’s roster, featuring Cade Cunningham, Jaden Ivey, and Ausar Thompson, struggles with spacing. Holland’s shooting woes exacerbate that issue.
In a redraft, Detroit might prefer Keshad George, a smoother offensive wing. Still, Holland’s defense makes him valuable.
No. 7: Donovan Clingan, Portland’s Big Man
Clingan, a two-time NCAA champion at UConn, has been steady in Portland. Averaging a double-double in year two, he provides size and rim protection. His offensive limitations are clear, but his rebounding and defense make him a safe pick.
Portland would likely stick with Clingan in a redraft, valuing his reliability.
No. 8: AJ Mitchell, Oklahoma City’s Surprise
AJ Mitchell has emerged as one of the Thunder’s most intriguing young guards. His downhill attacking, transition playmaking, and defensive effort have impressed. In Minnesota, where Rob Dillingham has struggled, Mitchell would have been a better fit alongside Anthony Edwards.
In a redraft, Mitchell rises into the top 10.
No. 9: Kel’el Ware, Memphis’s Frontcourt Partner
Kel’el Ware’s combination of shot-blocking, rebounding, and offensive polish makes him an intriguing fit next to Jaren Jackson Jr. His sophomore season has shown growth, and Memphis’s developmental system could maximize his potential.
In a redraft, Ware lands in the top 10, pairing with Jackson to form a formidable frontcourt.
No. 10: Zacharie Risacher’s Slide
Risacher, originally No. 1, slides to Utah at No. 10 in a redraft. His shooting remains promising, but his lack of aggression and defensive lapses limit his impact. Under Will Hardy’s developmental system, he could thrive in a lower-pressure environment.
No. 11: Jared McCain, Chicago’s Shooter
McCain’s rookie year was cut short by injury, but his shooting prowess remains undeniable. In Chicago, alongside Josh Giddey, McCain’s off-ball movement and three-point accuracy would fit well.
In a redraft, McCain goes 11th, a slight slide but still a valuable pick.
No. 12: Jaylen Wells, OKC’s Role Player
Jaylen Wells, a second-round steal for Memphis, has emerged as one of the class’s best surprises. His three-point shooting and role-player mentality make him a perfect fit for OKC’s system.
In a redraft, Wells climbs into the lottery, going 12th overall.
No. 13: Ron Holland to Sacramento
Sacramento, needing defense, would select Ron Holland in a redraft. His athleticism and perimeter defense would complement Keegan Murray.
No. 14: Jaylen Tyson, Washington’s 3-and-D Wing
Jaylen Tyson has developed into a reliable shooter and defender. In Washington, alongside Alex Sarr and Keshad George, Tyson would provide balance.
No. 15: Tristan da Silva, Miami’s Glue Guy
Da Silva’s versatility—passing, shooting, defending—makes him a quintessential Miami Heat role player. His jack-of-all-trades profile fits perfectly in Erik Spoelstra’s system.
No. 16: Isaiah Collier, Philadelphia’s Playmaker
Collier, a gifted passer, would relieve Tyrese Maxey’s workload. His ability to run the offense makes him a valuable addition for the Sixers.
No. 17: Ryan Dunn, Lakers’ Defensive Stopper
The Lakers, needing defense, would select Ryan Dunn. His lack of shooting is a concern, but his defensive intensity fits JJ Redick’s system.
No. 18: Bub Carrington, Orlando’s Shooter
Carrington’s shooting slump has slowed his progress, but his potential as a floor spacer makes him valuable for Orlando, a team desperate for shooting.
Broader Themes
Depth of the Class
The 2024 draft lacked a generational superstar but produced depth. Multiple players—Castle, Sarr, Sheppard, Wells—have already carved roles.
Developmental Context
Environment matters. Castle thrived in San Antonio’s winning culture, while Sarr struggled in Washington’s rebuild. Risacher’s fit in Atlanta remains questionable.
Surprises and Slides
Jaylen Wells’ rise from second-rounder to lottery talent highlights the unpredictability of drafts. Risacher’s slide underscores the risks of projecting upside.
Conclusion
The 2024 NBA Draft will be remembered not for a singular superstar but for its depth, unpredictability, and the importance of fit. Stephon Castle has emerged as the early star, Alex Sarr remains the long-term bet, and Reed Sheppard has proven his value. Risacher’s struggles remind us that draft night hype does not guarantee success.
