2024 NBA Mock Draft 3.0: Hawks court chaos, Spurs speed up rebuild, Lakers surprise
By Cal Durrett
1) Atlanta Hawks-Zaccharie Risacher
Despite rumors that the Hawks have an interest in Connecticut center Donovan Clingan, barring a trade back in the draft, I expect them to pick wing Zaccharie Risacher first overall. There aren't any surefire stars in this year's draft class, unfortunately for the Hawks, so they may simply take the player that they feel is the best available and also the best fit with their roster and that's Risacher.
Perhaps the bigger issue is who Risacher would actually be playing with in Atlanta, with guards Trae Young or Dejounte Murray, as well as center Clint Capala, potentially being moved. Nevertheless, Risacher should be able to fit on just about any roster with his size, shooting ability, and defensive potential.
With Atlanta not being able to rebuild through the draft since they don't own their draft picks over the next three seasons, taking Risacher and keeping most of their team together for another year might be their best option. If he can emerge as an impact player as a rookie, then the Hawks may be able to solidify themselves as a playoff team instead of a play-in team with a limited ceiling.