When the 2024 NBA Draft wrapped up after two days of intense selections, it left fans and analysts with plenty to discuss. The draft saw a mix of unsurprising and intriguing picks, shedding light on the strategies and future plans of several franchises.
Top Picks and Major Moves
Zaccharie Risacher was the first pick of the 2024 NBA Draft, setting the tone for an event filled with young talent and unexpected choices. At the other end of the spectrum, Ariel Hukporti was selected as the last pick, bookending the draft's broad array of promising players.
The Milwaukee Bucks, already boasting a formidable lineup with Giannis Antetokounmpo, Damian Lillard, Khris Middleton, and Brook Lopez, opted to use their No. 23 pick on a 19-year-old who averaged a modest 2.9 points per game while playing professionally in Australia. This decision raised some eyebrows among observers, with one noting, "If I were the Greek Freak, I would not be pleased." This selection signals a possible long-term development strategy for the Bucks rather than an immediate solution.
Building New Rosters
Meanwhile, the Boston Celtics bolstered their roster by selecting Baylor Scheierman with the 30th pick. The Sixers secured Jared McCain at No. 16, adding depth and potential to their team. Perhaps one of the boldest moves came from the Houston Rockets, who picked Reed Sheppard as the third overall selection. This choice led some to speculate, "Could the Rockets have moved the pick for a veteran role player? Yeah, probably. But why?" indicating a preference for nurturing fresh talent over trading for seasoned veterans.
The Portland Trail Blazers made a significant addition by picking Donovan Clingan, a 7-foot-2 center who played a pivotal role in UConn's back-to-back national championships, with their seventh pick. The Kings, on the other hand, chose Devin Carter, the reigning Big East Player of the Year, at No. 13—a strategic decision likely aimed at injecting proven college talent into their lineup.
The Lakers' Strategic Selections
The Los Angeles Lakers made notable moves by drafting Dalton Knecht with the 17th pick and Bronny James with the 55th. Knecht, a 6-foot-6 wing player at 23 years old, adds versatility and maturity to the Lakers' roster. Bronny James' selection, however, carried additional weight due to his father, LeBron James, who has long expressed a desire to play in the NBA alongside his son. "LeBron said years ago that it is his dream to play in the NBA with his son," an observer noted, and this dream is now closer to reality.
This father-son dynamic caught the attention of many, with some expressing a sentimental view: "The story of LeBron and Bronny playing together is too sweet to seriously make fun of." While others see strategic value in the selection, "I personally think the 55th pick (that typically amounts to nothing) is a small price to pay to keep the NBA’s all-time leading scorer happy and ensure he signs an extension and retires with the franchise." This move by the Lakers can be seen as both a tribute to LeBron’s legacy and a tactful business decision.
Legacy and Influence in the NBA
It's not uncommon in the NBA to see familial ties influencing team decisions. "Billy Donovan has helped his son land jobs. John Calipari has helped his son land jobs. Giannis Antetokounmpo’s brother has been on the roster in Milwaukee for five years. Jalen Brunson’s father is on staff in New York," noted an observer, underscoring a common trend in professional basketball. "There is nothing too unique about LeBron and his agent creating this situation for Bronny," they added, highlighting that this tradition of family connections is part and parcel of the league's culture.
As the dust settles on the 2024 NBA Draft, teams will now shift their focus to integrating these new talents into their squads. Whether these moves will be seen as strokes of genius or missed opportunities will only become apparent in the seasons to come. Nevertheless, the legacy-building narratives and strategic choices of this draft have already left an indelible mark on the NBA landscape.