Ranking The 2024 NBA Draft Class By Categories

The 2024 NBA Draft, held on June 26-27, was filled with excitement and surprising picks. The Atlanta Hawks selected Zaccharie Risacher as the number one overall pick , adding a versatile forward to their roster. Following closely, the Washington Wizards picked Alex Sarr at second, known for his impressive defensive skills.

Reed Sheppard was picked third by the Houston Rockets , bringing his elite shooting and scoring abilities to the team. Bronny James, son of NBA legend LeBron James, was selected 55th overall by the Los Angeles Lakers, expected to bring his strong basketball IQ and solid all-around game to the team.

In this feature, we will rank the 2024 NBA Draft Class by 15 different categories, highlighting the top talents in scoring, playmaking, defense, and providing a comprehensive overview of the future stars of the NBA.

Scoring - Rob Dillingham

Rob Dillingham, selected 8th overall by the Spurs and traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves , showcased exceptional scoring ability during his freshman season at Kentucky. He averaged 15.2 points per game, shooting 47.5% from the field and 44.4% from three-point range. Known for his quick release and ability to create his own shot off the dribble, Dillingham is a constant offensive threat. His standout performances were pivotal in leading Kentucky to a successful season, making him a top scorer in this draft class.

Dillingham's scoring prowess is complemented by his ball-handling skills, which allow him to navigate through defenses and create scoring opportunities from various spots on the court. His ability to perform under pressure, especially in late-game situations, has earned him recognition as a clutch player. Dillingham's versatility in scoring—whether driving to the basket, pulling up for mid-range jumpers, or shooting from beyond the arc—makes him a well-rounded offensive player who can adapt to different defensive schemes.

Playmaking - Nikola Topic

Nikola Topic, chosen 12th overall by the Oklahoma City Thunder, is renowned for his playmaking skills. During his time at KK Crvena Zvezda, Topic averaged 7.1 assists per game, showcasing his excellent court vision and ability to orchestrate the offense. His proficiency in operating the pick-and-roll and setting up teammates under pressure makes him a valuable addition to the Thunder, enhancing their backcourt dynamics.

His high basketball IQ and leadership complement his passing ability on the court. He has the knack for making the right decisions, whether finding the open man, executing precise passes, or managing the game's tempo. Despite facing tough defenses, Topic's calm demeanor and strategic thinking allow him to maintain control and effectively direct his team's offensive plays. His size at 6'5" also gives him an advantage in seeing over defenses and making difficult passes, further establishing him as an elite playmaker.

Rebounding - Donovan Clingan

Donovan Clingan, drafted 7th overall by the Portland Trail Blazers, is a dominant force on the boards. Standing at 7'2", he averaged 7.4 rebounds per game at UConn. Clingan's size, strength, and impeccable timing allow him to secure rebounds in traffic and provide his team with crucial second-chance opportunities. His rebounding skills will be integral to the Blazers' frontcourt as they aim to control the paint and improve their overall defensive presence.

Clingan's rebounding extends beyond just numbers; his ability to read the ball's trajectory and position himself effectively sets him apart. He excels in both offensive and defensive rebounding, ensuring his team maintains possession and limiting the opponent's second-chance points. Additionally, Clingan's physical presence and tenacity make him a formidable opponent in box-out situations, often out-muscling and outmaneuvering his counterparts to secure the ball.

Defense - Ryan Dunn

Ryan Dunn, taken 28th overall by the Phoenix Suns, emerged as a top defensive prospect. At Virginia, Dunn's defensive stats were impressive, with 2.3 blocks and 1.3 steals per game. His 6'6" height and 7'1" wingspan enabled him to guard multiple positions and disrupt offenses effectively. Dunn's defensive versatility and ability to provide strong help defense make him a critical asset for any NBA team.

Dunn's impact goes beyond just his stats; his defensive instincts and timing are exceptional. He excels in both perimeter and interior defense, often switching seamlessly between guarding smaller, quicker players and providing help defense against bigger opponents. His athleticism and high basketball IQ enable him to read the game well, making timely interventions and forcing turnovers. Despite his prowess on the defensive end, Dunn's offensive game remains a work in progress, but his defensive contributions alone make him a valuable addition to any NBA roster.

3-Point Shooting - Reed Sheppard

Reed Sheppard, selected 3rd overall by the Houston Rockets, is renowned for his exceptional shooting from beyond the arc. During his collegiate career, Sheppard maintained a remarkable 52.1% shooting percentage from three-point range. His proficiency in both catch-and-shoot and off-the-dribble situations makes him one of the most reliable perimeter shooters in the 2024 NBA Draft, promising to add significant value to the Rockets' offensive strategy.

Beyond his shooting, Sheppard's ability to stretch the floor significantly impacts his team's offensive game. His presence forces defenses to extend, creating more space for drives and inside plays. Additionally, his quick release and ability to shoot from various spots on the court make him a consistent scoring option. As he transitions to the NBA, Sheppard's shooting skills are expected to translate well, providing the Rockets with a much-needed boost in perimeter scoring.

Finishing - Ron Holland

Chosen 5th overall by the Detroit Pistons, Ron Holland's ability to finish at the rim sets him apart. At the G-League Ignite, Holland averaged 18.5 points per game, frequently showcasing his talent for driving through defenses and completing challenging layups and dunks. His strength and agility enable him to absorb contact and finish plays, making him a potent scoring threat in close-range situations and a key offensive player for the Pistons.

Holland's athleticism enables him to navigate tight spaces and exploit gaps in the defense effectively. His ability to finish with both hands and his repertoire of moves around the basket makes him a versatile scorer. Additionally, Holland's physicality helps him draw fouls and get to the free-throw line, adding another dimension to his offensive game. As he adapts to the NBA, his finishing skills are expected to be a significant asset for the Pistons, enhancing their offensive potential.

Athleticism - Rob Dillingham

Rob Dillingham is not just known for his scoring prowess but also for his exceptional athleticism. Standing at 6'1" and weighing 164 pounds, Dillingham's agility and explosiveness are key components of his game. His quick first step allows him to blow past defenders, while his vertical leap enables him to finish at the rim despite his smaller stature. During his freshman season at Kentucky, he consistently demonstrated his ability to navigate through tight defenses, often performing acrobatic finishes and highlight-reel plays. His athleticism is complemented by his strong ball-handling skills, making him a versatile and dynamic guard.

Dillingham's athletic capabilities also enhance his defensive game. His lateral quickness allows him to stay in front of opposing guards, while his agility helps him recover quickly and contest shots. Although he needs to build more muscle to handle the physicality of the NBA, his natural athleticism gives him a solid foundation to become a well-rounded player. His performances at Kentucky were a testament to his ability to leverage his athleticism to impact both ends of the court, making him a promising prospect for the Timberwolves.

Clutch - Matas Buzelis

Matas Buzelis, selected 11th overall by the Chicago Bulls, has shown a knack for coming through in clutch situations. During his time with the G League Ignite, Buzelis averaged 14.1 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game, demonstrating his ability to perform under pressure. His standout moments include multiple games where he delivered crucial points in tight scenarios, showcasing his calm demeanor and confidence. Buzelis' clutch performances are highlighted by his efficient scoring in critical moments, often stepping up when his team needed him the most.

Buzelis' ability to remain composed under pressure is complemented by his versatile skill set. Standing at 6'10" and playing as a forward, he uses his size and agility to create mismatches against defenders. His smooth shooting stroke and ability to score from various spots on the floor make him a reliable option in crunch time. Additionally, his defensive contributions, including timely blocks and steals, add to his clutch credentials. The Bulls can rely on Buzelis to make pivotal plays when the game is on the line, making him a valuable asset for high-pressure situations.

Related: 2024 NBA Draft Results: Complete First-Round Selections

Efficiency - Donovan Clingan

Donovan Clingan is a model of efficiency, particularly in rebounding and scoring. During his season at UConn, Clingan boasted impressive shooting percentages with 63% from the field and 67% inside the paint, making the most of his opportunities. His size and strength allow him to secure high-percentage shots close to the basket, contributing significantly to his team's offensive efficiency.

Clingan's efficiency extends to his defensive game as well. He uses his size effectively to alter shots and block opponents, averaging 2.5 blocks per game. His ability to position himself correctly and read the game enables him to make impactful defensive plays without committing unnecessary fouls. Clingan's overall efficiency on both ends of the floor makes him a valuable player for the Blazers, who will rely on his consistent performance to control the paint and provide stability in their frontcourt.

Leadership - Zach Edey

Known for his leadership both on and off the court, Zach Edey exemplified these qualities during his time at Purdue. Averaging 25.2 points, 12.2 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks per game in his senior year, Edey led his team to the National Championship Game. His ability to inspire and unify his teammates was a key factor in Purdue's successful season. Edey's presence in the locker room and his strategic understanding of the game make him a natural leader, capable of guiding his team through challenging situations.

Edey’s leadership extends beyond his performance stats. His relentless work ethic and determination set a high standard for his peers. On the court, he directs plays and makes crucial decisions under pressure. Off the court, his positive influence fosters a cohesive team environment. As he transitions to the NBA as the 9th pick to the Memphis Grizzlies, Edey's leadership will be instrumental in building a competitive and unified team.

Versatility - Zaccharie Risacher

Zaccharie Risacher stands out for his incredible versatility, showcased during his time with JL Bourg in France. Averaging 12.5 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game, the No. 1 overall pick by the Hawks demonstrated his ability to play multiple positions effectively. His height and skill set allow him to be a significant force on both ends of the court, contributing to scoring, playmaking, and defense. Risacher's adaptability makes him a valuable asset, capable of fitting into various roles and team strategies.

Defensively, Risacher can guard multiple positions, using his length and athleticism to disrupt opponents' plays. Offensively, his ball-handling abilities and shot creation make him a constant threat. His high basketball IQ enables him to make smart decisions and adjust to different game situations. Risacher's multifaceted skill set promises to bring a dynamic and flexible element to any team's lineup, enhancing their overall performance.

Handles - Rob Dillingham

Rob Dillingham is renowned for his extraordinary ball-handling skills. During his freshman season at Kentucky, he often showcased his quick and precise dribbling. Dillingham's ability to change direction swiftly and maintain control under pressure sets him apart as one of the most skilled handlers in his draft class.

His ball-handling prowess is integral to his overall game, allowing him to break down defenses, create space for his shots, and set up plays for his teammates. Dillingham's adeptness at controlling the tempo and making quick decisions with the ball adds a dynamic element to his play. His exceptional handles enable him to navigate through tight defenses, enhancing his team's offense.

Underrated - Nikola Djurisic

Nikola Djurisic, often overlooked in the 2024 NBA Draft, brings a unique skill set that could make him a valuable asset at the professional level. At 6'8" and 215 pounds, the 43rd pick on the Hawks has shown his ability to serve as a ball-handler and playmaker. During his time with KK Mega Basket, Djurisic averaged 14.4 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game. His shooting percentages—45.4% from the field and 33.0% from three-point range—highlight his potential as a versatile scorer and facilitator.

Djurisic's strengths lie in his playmaking and scoring abilities. His height allows him to see over defenses and make precise passes, while his solid ball-handling skills enable him to create his own shots. Despite his potential, Djurisic's inconsistency in shooting and need for improvement in decision-making have kept him under the radar. However, with further development, he has the potential to become a significant contributor in the NBA.

Overrated - Zach Edey

Zach Edey, despite his impressive college career, faces challenges that could make his transition to the NBA difficult. Known for his dominance at Purdue, Edey's towering presence at 7'3" has been a double-edged sword. While his size makes him an effective rim protector and rebounder, it also exposes his lack of mobility and difficulty in guarding the perimeter.

Edey's main drawbacks include his limited foot speed and agility, which are critical in the modern NBA's fast-paced and perimeter-oriented game. His struggles with lateral movement and defending against quicker players make him a potential liability in pick-and-roll situations. Although his size and strength are undeniable assets, Edey will need to significantly improve his mobility and defensive versatility to live up to the high expectations set during his college career.

Overall - Alex Sarr

Alex Sarr is widely regarded as one of the most complete players in the 2024 NBA Draft. Standing at 7'1" with a versatile skill set, Sarr has demonstrated his ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor. During his time with the Perth Wildcats in the NBL, Sarr averaged 9.7 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game, showcasing his defensive prowess and offensive potential.

Sarr's strengths include his shot-blocking ability, rebounding, and scoring versatility. He can protect the rim effectively while also stepping out to hit mid-range jumpers and three-pointers. His combination of size, athleticism, and skill makes him a highly coveted prospect. As Sarr continues to develop his game, he is expected to become a cornerstone player who can contribute significantly on both offense and defense, making him one of the top overall picks in this draft.

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