2024 NBA Draft: Winners and Losers

The 2024 NBA Draft has wrapped up, and it’s time to dive into who came out on top and who didn’t quite hit the mark. WST News breaks down the most notable winners and losers from this year’s draft.

Who Won and Who Lost the 2024 NBA Draft

Bronny James: A Milestone Moment

When the Los Angeles Lakers picked Bronny James at No. 55, it was more than just a draft selection. Despite averaging just 4.8 points per game and overcoming a serious cardiac arrest, Bronny secured his spot in the NBA. This was a win, not just for Bronny but for the entire James family. The move was undoubtedly influenced by his father, LeBron James, and while some might cry nepotism, it’s a common practice across many industries. Bronny now has the opportunity to prove his worth on the court, and his selection also opens up potential future opportunities for the Lakers, given his family’s influence and the possibility of playing alongside his father.

LeBron James: Father-Son Dream Come True

LeBron James has achieved something unprecedented: he’ll potentially play alongside his son in the NBA. This rare father-son duo on the court is a testament to LeBron’s influence and success. It’s also a nod to his parenting skills, raising Bronny to be humble and hardworking despite the immense spotlight.

Lakers: Strategic Wins

The Lakers had a strategic win, not just by drafting Bronny but also by landing Dalton Knecht at No. 17. Knecht, the SEC Player of the Year, was projected to go much higher. His shooting prowess fills a critical need for the Lakers. The combination of keeping LeBron happy and enhancing their roster makes the Lakers big winners in this draft.

Dalton Knecht: Financial Hit

Dalton Knecht found himself in a bittersweet situation. While joining the Lakers is a fantastic opportunity, dropping from a projected No. 6 to No. 17 cost him a significant amount of money—around $16 million. Despite this, playing alongside LeBron James offers a chance for growth and exposure that could pay off in the long run.

Knicks: Smart Financial Moves

The New York Knicks had a stellar draft by securing five second-round picks from the Thunder and selecting Pacome Dadiet at No. 25. These moves were as much about financial strategy as they were about talent acquisition. By focusing on second-round picks, the Knicks can better manage their salary cap, ensuring flexibility for future signings and potentially positioning themselves for significant moves in the upcoming free agency periods.

Zaccharie Risacher: Top-Pick Advantage

Going No. 1 overall, Zaccharie Risacher is set for a lucrative start with the Atlanta Hawks. Though not a consensus top pick, his 3-and-D skills fit well with the team’s potential rebuild. Risacher’s $57 million rookie contract is a solid start to his NBA career.

French Basketball: Dominating the Draft

French basketball shone brightly, with Zaccharie Risacher, Alex Sarr, and Tidjane Salaun all going into the top six picks. This dominance highlights the growing talent pool in France and bodes well for the country’s basketball future. It also signals a potential shift in the NBA’s talent landscape, with more international players making a significant impact on the league.

Memphis Grizzlies: Missing Out

The Grizzlies aimed for Donovan Clingan but ended up with Zach Edey at No. 9. Missing out on Clingan, a potential defensive anchor, was a setback. Edey might prove valuable, but the disappointment of not landing their target makes the Grizzlies one of the draft’s losers.

Blazers: Landing a Steal that Excites

The Blazers hit the jackpot by picking Donovan Clingan at No. 7. Seen as a potential top pick, Clingan’s defensive skills and versatility make him a great fit for Portland. This pick positions the Blazers as a winner in this draft.

Spurs: Building for the Future

The Spurs played the long game, securing Stephon Castle at No. 4 and trading Rob Dillingham’s rights for future picks. Their strategy focuses on accumulating draft assets to support their star, Victor Wembanyama. This long-term vision sets the Spurs up for sustained success.

What’s Next After the 2024 NBA Draft

The 2024 NBA Draft showcased strategic moves, surprising picks, and a fair share of drama. Whether these decisions pan out as expected remains to be seen, but for now, these are the key takeaways from an eventful draft night.