The Atlanta Hawks have all eyes on them, with the 2024 NBA Draft just a day away.
This class does not have anyone deemed a generational talent like San Antonio Spurs’ Victor Wembanyama, meaning the Hawks’ choice at No. 1 becomes a bit more complicated. There are three players viewed as consensus tier-one prospects, so here’s a look at why Atlanta’s front office could opt to select each one:
Risacher has been rising up the draft boards in recent days, with the majority of betting outlets and mock drafts placing him as the favorite to land in Atlanta. He played last season with JL Bourg in France’s LNB Élite league, averaging 11.1 points and 4 rebounds between the EuroCup and Pro A. At 6-foot-8, 204 pounds, Risacher has the perfect mold for a modern-day forward. His length allows him to put up heavily-contested shots from the outside with ease while finishing overtop the defense. He has yet to showcase elite defensive traits, but holds all the necessary tools to evolve into a strong defender.
The back-to-back national champion could mesh well on almost every offense in the league, largely due to his mobile interior defense and NBA readiness. Clingan learned what it takes to win in two seasons with the UConn Huskies, an aspect of his skillset few hold. With championship contenders reportedly calling about veteran big man Clint Capela, the Hawks need to fill the void left behind. At 7-foot-2, Clingan could lock down the paint on both ends of the floor, averaging 13 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks on 63.9% shooting last season.
Although the Hawks were unable to bring in Sarr for a private workout, his potential may be too much to pass on. Most believe Sarr is sending Atlanta a message that he hopes to join the Washington Wizards at No. 2, and the last outcome the organization wants is an unhappy rookie. He averaged 9.7 points and 4.4 rebounds on 52% shooting in 24 games with the Perth Wildcats. At 7-foot-1 with elite physical traits on both sides of the floor, it will be hard to hear his name called just one pick after.
Instead of seeing Sarr go off the board to the Wizards, the Hawks could make a deal with general manager Brian Wright and the Spurs. It’s been no secret throughout the draft process that San Antonio is interested in moving their multiple top-10 picks to jump into the top-3. If Atlanta believes Clingan will fall to No. 4 and remain high on his potential, it’s a no-brainer to trade with the Spurs.
