2024 NBA Mock Draft: Full 2-round Predictions, Pro Comps After ...

Previous Mock Draft Spot: No. 1

Team: Perth Wildcats

Position: PF/C

Size: 7'1", 216 lbs

Age/Year: 18

Nationality: French

Pro Comparison: Jaren Jackson Jr.

Alexandre Sarr may have the best case right now at No. 1 with physical tools, pro-level production and translatable defense that scream high floor, plus flashes of inside-out offensive skills that hint at room to improve and a path to higher scoring upside.

His season is over after Perth lost two of three to Tasmania in the NBL semis. At 18 years old, he averaged 9.6 points and 1.5 blocks in 18.0 minutes with 16 made threes in 30 games.

Looking ahead, the next steps will be testing, measuring and interviewing at the NBA combine. But while most prospects will go on daunting workout tours, Sarr should be comfortable with his stock where he can pick and choose which few teams atop the draft board he wants to visit.

There is no doubt that the primary draw to Sarr revolves around his potential defensive impact as a roaming shot-blocker who can sit in a stance and guard ball-handlers and wings around the perimeter.

But he's become a strong candidate to go No. 1 thanks to glimpses of three-point range, pull-up shooting and open-floor ball-handling—unique skills for a 7'1", switchable rim protector.

Even with Cade Cunningham, Jaden Ivey, Jalen Duren and Ausar Thompson, the Detroit Pistons are far enough away from contention for positions or needs to matter in the draft. They still need to prioritize finding the best prospect available. The challenge this year is identifying him, as scouts continue to throw out all different answers for who should and will go No. 1.