Aggregate 2024 NBA Mock Draft: Paul George, Tyrese Maxey free agency; Zach LaVine trade talks (2024)

(JL Bourg-en-Bresse: Wing, International, 6-8)

Previous rank: 1 (-) / Best rank: 1 / Worst rank: 4

French forward Zaccharie Risacher is gaining further momentum to be the No. 1 overall pick by the Atlanta Hawks, with eight of the 11 mock drafts polled listing him first overall.

Many predicted Alex Sarr would have a strong chance at being the No. 1 pick, but he reportedly hasn’t worked out yet for Atlanta, per multiple reports.

With Saddiq Bey’s future uncertain and Bogdan Bogdanovic turning 32 in August, Risacher would represent a small forward of the future to pair with power forward Jalen Johnson for years to come in the frontcourt.

For months, many around the league believed Atlanta would break up its backcourt of Trae Young and Dejounte Murray, but they’re not the only Hawks being monitored.

NBA executives are monitoring Clint Capela as a trade candidate for several teams needing a veteran center, including the Oklahoma City Thunder, Memphis Grizzlies, and New Orleans Pelicans.

In other Hawks news, G League coach Ryan Schmidt is expected to spend next season as an assistant coach with the Atlanta Hawks, league sources told HoopsHype. A potential candidate to replace Schmidt as coach of the College Park Skyhawks in the G League is Steve Klei, sources said.

More: Zaccharie Risacher: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Perth Wildcats: Center, International, 7-1)

Previous rank: 2 (-) / Best rank: 1 / Worst rank: 2

With free agency nearing, rival NBA executives are monitoring Wizards free-agent point guard Tyus Jones as a possible sign-and-trade candidate, league sources told HoopsHype.

Jones is one of the top free-agent point guards on the market this summer, as noted in our HoopsHype point guard rankings.

Wizards reserve guard Landry Shamet has also drawn exploratory trade interest from several teams, including the Clippers, Lakers, Mavericks, Jazz, Raptors, and Magic, league sources told HoopsHype.

Shamet, who averaged 7.1 points in only 15.8 minutes per game last season, has $22.75 million in non-guaranteed salary for the upcoming two seasons, as noted in our HoopsHype Wizards salaries page. Should Shamet remain with the Wizards beyond the draft, Washington is leaning towards guaranteeing his $11 million salary for the 2024-25 season, sources said.

Lastly, on the intel side, Wizards center Richaun Holmes is expected to exercise his $12.9 million player option for the 2024-25 season, league sources told HoopsHype.

While all these potential moves will be a part of Washington’s offseason checklist, none would be more important than adding Alex Sarr, considered by many the top overall prospect in the draft.

In our last mock draft edition, HoopsHype spoke with Sarr’s general manager for the Perth Wildcats, Danny Mills, who joined Perth three years ago after spending seven years with the Philadelphia 76ers. Mills believes Sarr has an All-Star ceiling and compares him to Evan Mobley and Jaren Jackson Jr.

HoopsHype also got Mills’ thoughts on what Sarr needs to improve and a glimpse into him behind the scenes.

“Offensively, Sarr is still a blank canvas,” Mills told HoopsHype. “I think you can really develop his game on that end however a team sees fit and sees him fitting into their offense. He’s versatile, not just defensively. Offensively, he can step out and make three-pointers. I think that’s only going to continue to improve. I think he’s got a really good feel for the game and a high basketball IQ. As you play him out of the short roll and with catches off the elbow, his ability to make plays for himself and teammates in the flow of an offensive is high level for his age and will only continue to get better. He has the potential to develop into a stretch big offensively and be a rim protector on defense, which is what every NBA team is looking for in their frontcourt.”

Off the court, any team is getting an All-Star person as well.

“Sarr has got an unbelievable character and comes from a fantastic family,” Mills told HoopsHype. “His older brother, Olivier, has been in the NBA. He’s had great guidance from his parents and Olivier giving him advice on his process through his experiences. He’s had a unique path to the NBA. He’s gone from France to Real Madrid to Overtime Elite to the Perth Wildcats to become, hopefully, the No. 1 pick in the draft. It’s a very unique path, and he hasn’t shied away from adversity or challenges, and he’s put himself in the best position to get drafted into the NBA. That’s a credit to him and his growth mindset and how he’s constantly challenged himself in different situations. Some players wouldn’t have done all those moves to get to where he’s at. He got out of his comfort zone and thought these steps were the best opportunities for him to take that next step. We were super fortunate that his most recent step was with the Perth Wildcats and will get him to the NBA.”

More: Alex Sarr: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Kentucky: Guard, Freshman, 6-3)

Previous rank: 3 (-) / Best rank: 3 / Worst rank: 6

The Houston Rockets are big game hunting, and one of the many notable names on their radar is Paul George, league sources told HoopsHype. George could potentially exercise his $48.8 million player option to facilitate a trade to his next destination, but currently, the chances of Houston landing George are unlikely, sources said.

Houston has also had exploratory conversations about trading their No. 3 overall pick in a package for a win-now player upgrade and potentially moving back in the draft, league sources said.

Should Houston not make a draft-night trade, the Rockets still will be worth monitoring for a splash over the summer. Houston has team options on Jeff Green ($8 million) and Jae’Sean Tate ($7.57 million) and the $8 million non-guaranteed salary of Jock Landale, which can all be used as trade bait.

If Houston keeps this pick in the draft, Kentucky guard Reed Sheppard is the current favorite to be selected. If selected by Houston, Sheppard would become the point guard of the future behind Fred VanVleet, who has a $44.89 million team option for the 2025-26 season. Sheppard’s shooting and active hands defensively would translate immediately as a rookie.

More: Reed Sheppard: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(UConn: Guard, Freshman, 6-6)

Previous rank: 4 (-) / Best rank: 3 / Worst rank: 6

Among the top priorities for the San Antonio Spurs this offseason is upgrading at point guard, and the team could have a bevy of options in the draft at No. 4 overall. If Reed Sheppard fell to San Antonio, he’d be a strong contender for the pick. However, with Sheppard off the board to Houston in this mock draft, the Spurs are projected to select another point guard.

UConn’s Stephon Castle helped his draft stock immensely at the NBA Draft Combine after playing a key role in winning the national championship. Castle penetrates effectively when attacking downhill with his sturdy frame and defends at a high level, drawing comparisons to Marcus Smart from NBA executives who spoke with HoopsHype. Castle compared himself to Jrue Holiday at the combine as well. The x-factor for Castle will be whether he can become a consistent three-point shooter in the NBA.

More: Stephon Castle: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Ignite: Wing, G League, 6-10)

Previous rank: 5 (-) / Best rank: 4 / Worst rank: 6

The Pistons have a busy offseason ahead under new president Trajan Langdon.

Several executives around the league believe the Detroit Pistons will agree to a maximum extension with former No. 1 overall pick Cade Cunningham.

Detroit was also poised to be a suitor for Malik Monk in free agency before he agreed to a four-year, $78 million deal with Sacramento, league sources told HoopsHype. Keep an eye on the Pistons to add more shooting this summer.

As for the draft, Matas Buzelis would give the Pistons a versatile wing with elite size, strong shot-blocking, and playmaking skills. If his shooting becomes more consistent, Buzelis could become one of the best players in this class. His most common NBA player comparison has been Franz Wagner, according to multiple NBA executives who spoke with HoopsHype.

More: Matas Buzelis: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(UConn: Center, Sophom*ore, 7-2)

Previous rank: 6 (-) / Best rank: 1 / Worst rank: 9

If Charlotte takes Donovan Clingan, it could potentially be the best player available strategy to flip him to another team looking to move up in a trade. Portland is viewed as Clingan’s floor at No. 7 overall.

The Hornets have identified LaMelo Ball, Brandon Miller, and Mark Williams – a fellow young center like Clingan – as core members of their future.

Stephon Castle has also been connected to this pick but would prefer to be a point guard, and that wouldn’t happen with Ball on the Hornets.

As for free agency, there remains a belief around the league that Charlotte wants to re-sign forward Miles Bridges this summer after nearly an identical season to his 2021-22 season breakout campaign.

More: Donovan Clingan: NBA Draft scouting report and intel

(Colorado: Wing, Freshman, 6-8)

Previous rank: 12 (+5) / Best rank: 5 / Worst rank: 14

Portland could go several directions with this pick, including taking Colorado’s versatile forward Cody Williams, considered by many NBA scouts to have the highest floor of any player in this draft.

Several rival executives have pointed to Dalton Knecht as a possibility with this pick, as Portland needs to upgrade its shooting, and Knecht is ready to help immediately.

Outside of the draft, rival executives are monitoring the trade availability of Malcolm Brogdon and Jerami Grant.

More: Cody Williams: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Cholet Basket France: Wing, International, 6-9)

Previous rank: 11 (+3) / Best rank: 8 / Worst rank: 14

As noted in last week’s mock draft, Tidjane Salaun was gaining steam as the projected No. 8 overall pick to San Antonio in the eyes of rival executives, with his floor viewed no worse than 12th overall to Oklahoma City. Now, it’s come to fruition in the mock draft.

Should San Antonio select Castle fourth overall, this would allow the Spurs to grab the French forward, who has high upside as a three-point shooter who can create his shot. It’s worth noting that Salaun and Spurs star Victor Wembanyama both share the same agency.

More: Tidjane Salaun: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Tennessee: Guard, Senior, 6-6)

Previous rank: 7 (-2) / Best rank: 6 / Worst rank: 13

The Memphis Grizzlies have actively looked to upgrade their frontcourt and find a compliment to Jaren Jackson Jr., league sources told HoopsHype.

Within the draft, Memphis has expressed interest in Donovan Clingan and the possibility of trying to move up to select him, sources said.

Rival NBA executives are also monitoring the Grizzlies on the trade market, with centers Clint Capela and Mitchell Robinson available.

The Grizzlies also expressed exploratory interest in trading for Nets center Day’Ron Sharpe at the trade deadline this past season and have now circled back again, league sources told HoopsHype.

It’s worth noting the Grizzlies have also been fans of Nets forward Dorian Finney-Smith from afar since he was acquired by Brooklyn and previously made attempts to trade for him.

For this mock draft exercise, assuming Memphis doesn’t trade the pick in an attempt to move up for Clingan, the Grizzlies land Dalton Knecht, a sharpshooter who could replace Luke Kennard, who has a $14.76 million team option and is available on the trade market, league sources told HoopsHype.

More: Dalton Knecht: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(KK Crvena Zvezda: Guard, International, 6-6)

Previous rank: 8 (-2) / Best rank: 8 / Worst rank: 20

The Utah Jazz have several combo guards in their rotation, including last year’s 16th overall pick, Keyonte George, and trade candidates Collin Sexton and Jordan Clarkson.

Landing Nikola Topic, who has a partially torn ACL, would give Utah a true point guard with elite size for the position who can finish around the rim, make his teammates better, and upside as one of the best players in this class if he stays healthy long term.

More: Nikola Topic: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Providence: Guard, Junior, 6-3)

Previous rank: 13 (+2) / Best rank: 8 / Worst rank: 16

Before Chicago acquired Josh Giddey, many rival executives believed Devin Carter was a candidate to land with the Bulls. This projection will change in the next aggregate mock draft.

Several rival NBA executives who spoke with HoopsHype were surprised the Bulls passed on numerous offers with multiple draft picks for All-Defensive guard Alex Caruso the past couple of years for Giddey when Coby White played well last season as runner-up for Most Improved Player of the Year, and Giddey’s value declined after being benched in the playoffs by Oklahoma City.

Now, Giddey will have significant negotiating leverage when he’s eligible for restricted free agency during the summer of 2026 with Chicago after the Bulls gave up one of their top trade assets to acquire him.

Before the Caruso for Giddey trade, there was a belief that Chicago would’ve explored a potential sign-and-trade deal involving former No. 4 overall pick Patrick Williams with Oklahoma City, league sources told HoopsHype.

Looking ahead, the Bulls are continuing to search for a new home for guard Zach LaVine, league sources said. Some rival executives believed the four-year, $78 million agreement with Malik Monk would take Sacramento out of any LaVine talks. As previously reported by HoopsHype before the trade deadline, Kings guard Kevin Huerter, also a trade candidate, has admirers in Chicago’s front office.

Heading into free agency, Chicago would also like to re-sign center Andre Drummond, league sources told HoopsHype. At the trade deadline, Philadelphia thought it had a deal for Drummond before Chicago pulled out of talks. The Bulls were seeking three second-round picks for Drummond, sources said.

Despite speculation of a potential Lonzo Ball buyout, there’s little reason for Ball to accept any pay cut, and Chicago could use him as an expiring contract trade asset through the upcoming trade deadline instead.

Lastly, before adding former Washington Wizards coach Wes Unseld Jr. and Los Angeles Clippers assistant Dan Craig, the Bulls also spoke with former head coaches Nate McMillan and Dwane Casey, league sources told HoopsHype.

More: Devin Carter: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Kentucky: Guard, Freshman, 6-2)

Previous rank: 9 (-3) / Best rank: 6 / Worst rank: 19

Following the acquisition of All-Defensive guard Alex Caruso, Oklahoma City has a scary backcourt of stoppers in Caruso, Lu Dort, and Cason Wallace.

If this projection holds, Kentucky’s Rob Dillingham would be a microwave scorer off the bench for the Thunder and take the scoring load off Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

More: Rob Dillingham: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Ignite: Wing, G League, 6-8)

Previous rank: 10 (-3) / Best rank: 5 / Worst rank: 17

Following the four-year, $78 million agreement with guard Malik Monk, many rival executives believe the Sacramento Kings will be out of the Zach LaVine sweepstakes.

G League Ignite star Ron Holland would give Sacramento a small forward of the future and allow the team to continue exploring the trade market on veteran forward Harrison Barnes.

Holland would be a potential steal at this position, having entered the season in the conversation to be the No. 1 pick for his versatility as a defender, switchability, and penetration ability on offense.

“I give Holland a lot of credit because Matas Buzelis was already signed,” an NBA executive told HoopsHype. “I wondered how that dynamic would work, but both of those guys are the type of people who want to play with each other, which I hope will come across to NBA scouts.”

MORE: Ron Holland: ‘I feel like I’m the one that stands out because of my motor’

More: Ron Holland: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Purdue: Center, Senior, 7-4)

Previous rank: 18 (+4) / Best rank: 12 / Worst rank: 25

Despite having Deandre Ayton, Duop Reath, and Robert Williams on the roster, Portland has been linked to centers Donovan Clingan and now Zach Edey, one of the most polarizing players in the draft class after finishing as a two-time Player of the Year at Purdue.

Edey’s low-post scoring, rebounding, and shot blocking are unquestioned, but several NBA talent evaluators think he’ll be targeted defensively in pick-and-rolls and struggle to guard switches on the perimeter.

More: Zach Edey: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Duke: Guard, Freshman, 6-3)

Previous rank: 14 (-1) / Best rank: 14 / Worst rank: 18

While Jimmy Butler’s future with the Heat is a bit unclear, Miami is expected to have extension discussions with All-Star and All-Defensive First Team center Bam Adebayo this summer, league sources told HoopsHype.

Regarding free agency, Miami Heat swingman Caleb Martin is expected to decline his $7.13 million player option and enter unrestricted free agency for a bigger payday this summer, league sources told HoopsHype.

Martin has shot 37 percent during his three seasons with the Heat, and should he depart in free agency, Miami will have to replace his floor spacing.

Duke’s Jared McCain, a 41.4 percent three-point shooter, would do just that in the draft. He’s also drawn comparisons to Seth Curry for several NBA talent evaluators who spoke with HoopsHype.

More: Jared McCain: NBA draft scouting report and intel

More: Free agent Haywood Highsmith: ‘If all things are close, I definitely would love to stay in Miami’

(Baylor: Guard, Freshman, 6-5)

Previous rank: 16 (-) / Best rank: 12 / Worst rank: 25

Despite a recent report that Philadelphia’s interest in Paul George has cooled amid uncertainty about whether he’d go across the country and sign with Philadelphia in free agency, there remains significant interest from the 76ers in signing him as a free agent, league sources told HoopsHype.

Should the Sixers whiff on George, trying to trade for Jimmy Butler or sign OG Anunoby to a short-term, higher market average annual salary free agent deal are also options.

While Philadelphia was also linked to a potential trade for Bulls guard Zach LaVine, the 76ers have less interest in taking on the remaining $138 million on his contract with Alex Caruso no longer able to be attached in trade talks, league sources told HoopsHype.

Another backup contingency free agency plan is the possibility of giving Kentavious Caldwell-Pope a similar two-year deal to Bruce Brown with a higher first-year salary and team option in the second year, league sources told HoopsHype.

The most certain thing for Philadelphia is Tyrese Maxey re-signing on a max extension, league sources said. However, after having to wait a year and being patient with Philadelphia’s front office as it prioritized max cap space, keep an eye on Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul wanting a player option on the final year of Maxey’s new contract and the full 15 percent trade kicker he’s eligible for in negotiations, HoopsHype has learned.

Lastly, with sharpshooter Buddy Hield entering unrestricted free agency, Ja’Kobe Walter offers a cheaper 3-and-D replacement and a much better perimeter defender with a 6-foot-10 wingspan in the draft.

More: Ja’Kobe Walter: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Colorado: Forward, Senior, 6-9)

Previous rank: 17 (-) / Best rank: 14 / Worst rank: 33

New Lakers coach JJ Redick joins Steve Nash, Steve Kerr, Jason Kidd, Derek Fisher, and Mark Jackson as the sixth person to become an NBA head coach without any experience as an assistant or head coach elsewhere.

As for the team itself, this is the second straight aggregate mock draft where Tristan da Silva has been linked to the Lakers, who could always use his 39.5 percent three-point shooting in his last two seasons at Colorado to space the floor for LeBron James and Anthony Davis.

Baylor center Yves Missi is another name to keep an eye on with this pick. Missi worked out for the Lakers previously, league sources told HoopsHype.

More: Tristan Da Silva: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Pittsburgh: Guard, Freshman, 6-5)

Previous rank: 20 (+2) / Best rank: 12 / Worst rank: 27

Orlando, which is targeting shooting upgrades this summer, was expected to have strong interest in Malik Monk before he agreed to stay in Sacramento. The Magic has also been linked to Warriors sniper Klay Thompson.

Should Colorado’s Tristan da Silva remain on the board at No. 18 overall, he’s been a prospect under consideration for Orlando. However, in this mock draft version, he’s off the board.

Carlton Carrington has been compared to Cleveland’s Caris LeVert by NBA scouts and offers versatile upside and size that the Magic front office has valued in past drafts.

More: NBA draft prospect Carlton Carrington: ‘I feel like my defense is so underrated’

More: Carlton Carrington: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Indiana: Center, Sophom*ore, 7-0)

Previous rank: 19 (-) / Best rank: 11 / Worst rank: 25

The Toronto Raptors will also look to extend All-Star forward Scottie Barnes this summer, league sources told HoopsHype. Many rival executives who spoke with HoopsHype believe Barnes will command a max contract extension after being named an All-Star for the first time.

Despite having centers Jakob Poeltl, Kelly Olynyk, and Chris Boucher, who can also play the position, Toronto has repeatedly been linked to Kel’el Ware, who would become the center of the future after improving his stock arguably more than any player in college basketball.

More: Kel’el Ware: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Miami: Guard, Freshman, 6-8)

Previous rank: 23 (+3) / Best rank: 14 / Worst rank: 26

Cleveland enters draft week deciding between coaching finalists Kenny Atkinson, James Borrego, and Micah Nori. Should Atkinson become Cleveland’s head coach, keep an eye on potential assistant coach additions such as Jordan Ott and Trevor Hendry, who both worked with Atkinson in Brooklyn, league sources said.

As for the draft, Kyshawn George has some fans in Cleveland’s organization who believe George would be an upside pick for the future.

For more on Cleveland’s offseason ahead, including reporting on Donovan Mitchell extension talks, trade talks surrounding Darius Garland and Jarrett Allen, Cleveland’s coaching search, Evan Mobley’s chances at a max extension, and Isaac Okoro’s restricted free agency, check out HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto and Cavaliers beat reporter Chris Fedor on the latest episode of The HoopsHype Podcast.

More: Kyshawn George: ‘I study ball handling like Luka Doncic, shooting like Klay Thompson’

More: Kyshawn George: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Baylor: Center, Freshman, 6-10)

Previous rank: 24 (+3) / Best rank: 17 / Worst rank: 30

New Orleans is open to trading the No. 21 overall pick, league sources told HoopsHype.

Among the offseason priorities for New Orleans is finding a replacement for center Jonas Valanciunas, who’s expected to leave in free agency, sources said.

Landing Yves Missi at No. 21 overall would offer a potential replacement for Valanciunas and some long-term upside if the Pelicans keep this pick. Missi has been compared to Clint Capela and is expected to thrive as a high-motor, rim-rolling pick-and-roll big man in the NBA thanks to his athleticism.

In other news, should the Pelicans lose associate head coach James Borrego – a strong candidate for Cleveland’s head coaching job – New Orleans will look to add another former head coach to the staff as his replacement, league sources told HoopsHype.

More: Pelicans Rumors: Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram, CJ McCollum, Trades, Free Agency

More: Yves Missi: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Marquette: Guard, Senior, 6-3)

Previous rank: 22 (-) / Best rank: 15 / Worst rank: NR

As reported by HoopsHype, there’s a growing belief from rival NBA executives that Phoenix will target Marquette point guard Tyler Kolek with the 22nd overall pick after leading the NCAA in assists this season.

Kolek recently participated in a pre-draft workout that also featured forwards Ryan Dunn and Tyler Smith.

There’s also a strong belief around the NBA that Phoenix will re-sign Royce O’Neale, league sources told HoopsHype. O’Neale is expected to command roughly $10 million annually and sign a new deal for three or four years. The Suns have O’Neale’s Bird Rights, allowing them to go over the cap to retain him.

In other Suns news, Brendan Sabean is expected to become the team’s new G League general manager, league sources told HoopsHype.

More: Tyler Kolek: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(USC: Guard, Freshman, 6-5)

Previous rank: 15 (-8) / Best rank: 10 / Worst rank: 27

With Milwaukee in win-now mode, the Bucks are open to trading the No. 23 overall pick, league sources told HoopsHype.

Rival executives have also come away with the sense that Bobby Portis and Pat Connaughton are available on the trade market if Milwaukee can make a notable win-now upgrade. Both players, however, have been mentioned as possible trade candidates in the past, and nothing has come of it. Portis finished as a Sixth Man of the Year finalist for the second straight year.

Should the Bucks remain in this slot and land Isaiah Collier, he’d represent a potential upgrade at backup point guard behind Damian Lillard and could become the point guard of the future. Earlier this season, Collier was considered the potential top overall pick and was one of the top players in his high school class.

More: Isaiah Collier: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Virginia: Guard, Sophom*ore, 6-8)

Previous rank: 24 (+1) / Best rank: 24 / Worst rank: 38

The New York Knicks have been linked to Ryan Dunn for the past three HoopsHype mock drafts. Dunn, a New York native who played for Long Island Lutheran High School in Brookville, New York, is considered the top perimeter defender in the draft class.

His playing style would mesh well with Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau and represent a backup to OG Anunoby should the team re-sign him as expected.

Some in New York believe Dunn will be off the board by this point but would strongly consider selecting him if he’s still on the board here, league sources said.

More: Ryan Dunn: ‘You’re bringing in a defensive monster’

More: Ryan Dunn: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Kansas: Wing, Freshman, 6-9)

Previous rank: 27 (+2) / Best rank: 18 / Worst rank: 29

As Marc Stein reported, the Knicks have interest in Paul George, who can opt into his $48.8 million player option to facilitate a trade.

New York’s interest dates back to last year at the NBA Draft when the Knicks discussed a package featuring Obi Toppin, Quentin Grimes, Evan Fournier, and three first-round picks in exchange for George, as previously reported by HoopsHype.

The George interest surfaced at a curious time, after the Knicks low-balled forward OG Anunoby during early free agent discussions on a potential new deal, as Brian Windhorst first reported, and league sources confirmed to HoopsHype.

When the Knicks first acquired Anunoby, the belief was that he’d land a deal in the $30-35 million a year range annually, league sources told HoopsHype. Now, however, that value has gone up, starting at $35 million annually to his maximum starting salary for next season, sources said.

New York remains committed to re-signing Anunoby, and despite the start to negotiations, the Knicks remain the favorite to keep Anunoby this summer in the eyes of rival executives.

In other Knicks free agency news, the team is expected to offer Isaiah Hartenstein the full four-year, $72 million maximum deal at their disposal to try and retain him in free agency, league sources told HoopsHype.

Should New York lose Hartenstein in free agency to a higher offer elsewhere, several centers are on their radar as potential replacements, including free agents Goga Bitadze, Jonas Valanciunas, and Nick Richards, who would be a trade target, league sources told HoopsHype. There’s also an outside chance the Knicks make a run at Andre Drummond, sources said.

If the Knicks re-sign Hartenstein and Anunoby costs more than $35 million per year, some around the league believe center Mitchell Robinson could be traded to help New York maintain future payroll flexibility.

Parting with Robinson would be tough because he’s viewed as the heart of the defense and is a favorite of coach Tom Thibodeau. However, with teams such as New Orleans, Memphis, and Oklahoma City needing centers, he’s a potential trade candidate for those teams and more.

As for the potential draft pick, Johnny Furphy is an intriguing 19-year-old forward who is a knockdown spot-up three-point shooter at 42.9 percent and has springs in his legs with fluid athleticism. Defensively, Furphy can switch and guard three positions while using his length and active hands to disrupt passing lanes.

More: Johnny Furphy: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Duke: Center, Sophom*ore, 7-0)

Previous rank: 21 (-5) / Best rank: 12 / Worst rank: 31

Kyle Filipowski made the most of his sophom*ore season at Duke by becoming a reliable stretch forward at 34.8 beyond the arc and doubling his block production (0.7 to 1.5 per game). Occasionally, Filipowski can attack closeouts off the dribble. He’s been compared often to Kelly Olynyk by NBA executives who spoke with HoopsHype.

More: Kyle Filipowski: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Dayton: Forward, Junior, 6-10)

Previous rank: 28 (+1) / Best rank: 18 / Worst rank: 30

While some around the league speculated Denver as the landing spot for DaRon Holmes, multiple NBA executives who spoke with HoopsHype believe Holmes will be drafted much higher. Furthermore, there’s no truth to a reported promise from the Nuggets for Holmes, league sources said.

Nonetheless, should Holmes land this far down the draft, he’d represent a potential forward replacement for Kyle Anderson, whom the Timberwolves are worried about retaining in free agency with a hefty looming luxury tax bill.

More: DaRon Holmes II: NBA Draft scouting report and intel

(Creighton: Guard, Senior, 6-7)

Previous rank: 30 (+2) / Best rank: 27 / Worst rank: 34

Denver remains concerned that guard Kentavious Caldwell-Pope will decline his $15.44 million player option, enter unrestricted free agency, and land a more lucrative payday on the open market than the Nuggets can afford, given their cap situation.

Baylor Scheierman could be a potentially cheaper three-point marksman of the future for Denver and an eventual rotation player, but he’s a significantly worse defender than Caldwell-Pope.

Denver Nuggets star Jamal Murray on Nikola Jokic: ‘I think we’re the best duo’

More: Baylor Scheierman: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Ignite: Forward, G League, 6-11)

Previous rank: 26 (-3) / Best rank: 11 / Worst rank: 39

Some NBA talent evaluators quietly believed Tyler Smith could become the best NBA player of the G League Ignite’s three stars, including Matas Buzelis and Ron Holland when speaking with HoopsHype at the G League Showcase in December.

Those talent evaluators believe Smith needs a veteran culture to help nurture his development and maximize his eventual upside.

Smith, at worst, has a chance to be a stretch forward in the NBA for a long time, given his lefty stroke from beyond the arc and size.

At his best, he’s drawn comparisons to Timberwolves Sixth Man of the Year Naz Reid by multiple NBA scouts for his ability to create for himself off the dribble, spread the floor, and athleticism at his size, as noted in a previous HoopsHype aggregate mock draft.

More: Tyler Smith: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(California: Guard, Junior, 6-7)

Previous rank: 31 (+1) / Best rank: 20 / Worst rank: NR

Rival NBA executives believe Boston is open to trading the No. 30 overall pick.

Should Boston keep this pick and add a potential rotation player for the future, Jaylon Tyson can provide an offensive spark off the bench and contribute to any NBA team as a three-level scorer who can make plays for others and has matured after attending three schools in as many college seasons.

“I was a top recruit coming out of high school,” Tyson said at the NBA Draft Combine. “Once I didn’t see the floor as an 18 or 19-year-old, it hurt my mental and my ego. I had to step back and dig into who I was. Now that I’m older, I get to look back, and that made me a better man. I don’t know if I’d be sitting here if I didn’t go through those experiences.”

As previously noted in a recent mock draft, Tyson has drawn comparisons to Caleb Martin.

More: Jaylon Tyson: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Illinois: Guard, Senior, 6-6)

Previous rank: 33 (+2) / Best rank: 24 / Worst rank: NR

The Toronto Raptors have received trade interest in the No. 31 pick, league sources told HoopsHype.

Among the players who could be available with this pick include Illinois star Terrence Shannon Jr. who recently was found not guilty of rape allegations.

The 23-year-old swingman has an NBA frame and the athleticism to guard three positions. His swing skill is his outside shooting, which has been inconsistent at times.

More: Terrance Shannon Jr: NBA draft scouting report

(Ratiopharm Ulm: Wing, International, 6-8)

Previous rank: 32 (-) / Best rank: 28 / Worst rank: NR

Pacome Dadiet is projected to land No. 32 overall in Utah for the second consecutive aggregate mock draft. However, with Utah exploring the trade market on their No. 29 and 32 overall picks, this selection could be made for another team.

More: Pacome Dadiet: NBA draft scouting report

(Minnesota: Guard, Freshman, 6-6)

Previous rank: 35 (+2) / Best rank: 27 / Worst rank: NR

Cam Christie is one of the top shooters in this draft as an 18-year-old prospect with noteworthy upside as a ball handler initiating out of pick-and-roll actions.

In this scenario for Milwaukee, Christie could become a long-term replacement for Khris Middleton.

More: Cam Christie: NBA draft scouting report

(Cairns Taipans: Wing, International, 6-10)

Previous rank: 29 (-5) / Best rank: 23 / Worst rank: NR

Bobi Klintman is a versatile forward who can do a little bit of everything on both sides of the ball, including intriguing size, coordination, ball-handling skills, and shooting for his position.

More: Bobi Klintman: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Illawarra Hawks: Guard, International, 6-5)

Previous rank: 36 (+1) / Best rank: 29 / Worst rank: NR

AJ Johnson continues to rise since the NBA Draft Combine, including a 38-inch max vertical leap. The 19-year-old combo guard has good positional size to play point guard, length, and athleticism, ranking as arguably the fastest prospect in the draft.

More: AJ Johnson: NBA draft scouting report

(KK Mega Bemax: Wing, International, 6-8)

Previous rank: 37 (+1) / Best rank: 30 / Worst rank: NR

Nikola Djurisic has steadily risen in the aggregate mock draft poll since the NBA Draft Combine, recently won MVP at the Adidas EuroCamp, and has settled in this range in the past two mock drafts.

Djurisic has been compared to seven-time All-Star Joe Johnson, as he noted during an interview with HoopsHype’s Cyro Asseo.

More: Myles Turner: Pacers trade talks, Tyrese Haliburton, Pascal Siakam’s free agency, Rick Carlisle

More: Nikola Djurisic: NBA draft scouting report

(UCLA: Forward, Sophom*ore, 6-10)

Previous rank: 40 (+3) / Best rank: 37 / Worst rank: NR

In the eyes of NBA talent evaluators, Adem Bona has all the physical tools, motor, and athleticism to become a rotation player for a decade. Bona was named Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year because of his ability to protect the paint as a high-level shot blocker and rebounder. Offensively, he’s a rim-rolling big man who sets hard screens and plays within himself.

More: Adem Bona: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Kentucky: Wing, Freshman, 6-8)

Previous rank: 38 (-) / Best rank: 26 / Worst rank: NR

Justin Edwards has fluctuated in the 30s range through four consecutive mock drafts.

Edwards entered Kentucky as one of the top recruits in his class and shot 36.5 percent beyond the arc and 48.6 percent overall for the Wildcats, giving some NBA executives the belief he can be a role player in the mold of Rodney Hood if he develops properly or Shabazz Muhammad if he fails to translate because of their similar physical traits.

More: Justin Edwards: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(San Francisco: Forward, Junior, 6-8)

Previous rank: 46 (+7) / Best rank: 35 / Worst rank: NR

Jonathan Mogbo’s 7-foot-2 wingspan at the combine, recording the fifth-fastest sprint time (3.02), and playing well in scrimmages helped his draft stock immensely.

More: Jonathan Mogbo: NBA draft scouting report

(Arizona: Guard, Senior, 6-5)

Previous rank: 41 (+1) / Best rank: 40 / Worst rank: NR

Portland had the league’s worst team three-point shooting percentage (.344) and needs more shooting. Enter Pelle Larsson, a knockdown off-ball three-point shooter (.426) who can create off the dribble to beat his defender or create space for jumpers. He’s a potential 3-and-D NBA role player if he develops properly.

More: Pelle Larsson: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Kansas: Guard, Senior, 6-7)

Previous rank: 34 (-7) / Best rank: 33 / Worst rank: NR

Kevin McCullar’s stock has fallen in four consecutive aggregate mock drafts.

While the 23-year-old swingman is ready to contribute immediately and has good size for an NBA swingman, NBA executives question his long-term upside and inconsistent three-point shooting throughout his five collegiate seasons.

McCullar has active hands and generated turnovers defensively (1.6 college career steals per game), which helped him become a Big 12 All-Defensive selection. McCullar also displayed playmaking skills as a secondary ball handler.

More: Kevin McCullar: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Weber State: Wing, Junior, 6-6)

Previous rank: 42 (-) / Best rank: 28 / Worst rank: NR

Dillon Jones compared himself to Josh Hart in a recent HoopsHype interview after progressively improving as a scorer and playmaker for his teammates each year at Weber State.

More: Dillon Jones: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Houston: Guard, Senior, 6-1)

Previous rank: 43 (-) / Best rank: 35 / Worst rank: NR

Jamal Shead ended his senior season by becoming the first Big 12 player ever to win Player of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year in the same season.

The sturdy point guard is an effective penetrator and playmaker for others who must develop a more consistent three-point shot. Defensively, his active hands and on-ball pressure will be welcomed as a scrappy backup NBA point guard.

At the combine, Shead had the second-fastest three-quarter sprint (2.94 seconds) and recorded a 37.5-inch max vertical leap.

Shead’s agent, Bill Neff, recently had Gabe Vincent on the Miami Heat.

More: Free agent Haywood Highsmith: ‘If all things are close, I definitely would love to stay in Miami‘

More: Jamal Shead: NBA draft scouting report

(Saint-Quentin Basketball: Wing, International, 6-7)

Previous rank: 39 (-5) / Best rank: 37 / Worst rank: NR

Melvin Ajinca has slowly slipped each of the past five aggregate mock drafts and is now in the 40s range for the first time.

The French forward turns 20 on draft night and intrigues NBA executives with his physique and high motor. However, he doesn’t generate steals often nor gets to the foul line regularly. The lefty wing also has a streaky three-point shot.

More: Melvin Ajinca: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(North Carolina: Forward, Sophom*ore, 6-7)

Previous rank: 45 (-) / Best rank: 32 / Worst rank: NR

Harrison Ingram was an All-ACC selection for the Tar Heels and became an NBA Draft prospect after shooting 38.5 percent from beyond the arc and grabbing a career-high 8.8 rebounds at North Carolina this season.

Ingram believes his role is becoming a 3-and-D small forward in the NBA.

More: NBA draft prospect Harrison Ingram: ‘I’m an elite passer and an elite playmaker’

More: Harrison Ingram: NBA draft scouting report

(UC Santa Barbara: Guard, Junior, 6-5)

Previous rank: 44 (-2) / Best rank: 31 / Worst rank: NR

The Los Angeles Clippers are caught between a rock and a hard place with franchise stars Kawhi Leonard and soon-to-be free agent Paul George.

After signing Leonard to a three-year, $153 million extension during the season, that mark essentially set the standard for the Clippers in future negotiations with George, who the organization views as the team’s second-best player behind a healthy Leonard.

However, George is expected to command maximum contract offers from other teams on the free agent market, which puts the Clippers in a pickle. The franchise doesn’t want to upset Leonard, who took less than the maximum amount to extend with the Clippers but could lose George in the process if the organization doesn’t improve its current offer.

Further complicating matters is the belief that the Clippers haven’t offered George more than three seasons it signed Leonard to in current contract negotiations.

Potentially, the Clippers could offer George, a California native, a no-trade clause in his contract to help sway his decision.

In other free agency news, Clippers forward PJ Tucker is expected to exercise his $11.54 million player option for the upcoming 2024-25 season, league sources told HoopsHype.

As for the draft pick projection, Ajay Mitchell had a breakthrough junior season at UCSB by becoming a knockdown three-point shooter for the first time at 39.3 percent.

Mitchell has routinely gotten to the foul line the past two seasons (5.9 free throw attempts) and is a good foul shooter (.858) with decent size for his position.

Clippers offseason primer: Paul George, James Harden, Ty Lue, Lawrence Frank, PJ Tucker

More: Ajay Mitchell: NBA draft scouting report

(Akron: Forward, Senior, 6-7)

Previous rank: 49 (+2) / Best rank: 36 / Worst rank: NR

Enrique Freeman has become a projected first-round pick, according to veteran Jazz beat writer Tony Jones.

The Akron standout and MAC Player of the Year performed well at the NBA Draft Combine in scrimmages, sported a 7-foot-2 wingspan, and has been busy on the workout trail, as noted in our HoopsHype tracker.

More: Enrique Freeman: NBA draft scouting report

(Arizona: Forward, Senior, 6-7)

Previous rank: 50 (+2) / Best rank: 39 / Worst rank: NR

Keshad Johnson, 23, is a strong defensive wing who can tag a rolling big and rotate effectively across the court with a sturdy 225-pound frame, which makes him an effective rebounder.

Offensively, The x-factor for Johnson will be his three-point shooting, where he shot 38.7 percent last season after shooting an underwhelming 24.6 percent from beyond the arc during his first four college seasons.

More: Keshad Johnson: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Colorado: Guard, Junior, 6-2)

Previous rank: 47 (-2) / Best rank: 27 / Worst rank: NR

KJ Simpson is a candidate to watch with the Minnesota Timberwolves higher in the draft, HoopsHype has learned.

Simpson has a chance to become a backup NBA point guard. He finished well around the rim with body control and developed a floater in the lane despite being undersized. Defensively, he’s a pesky on-ball defender who generates steals with active hands.

Simpson’s three-point shooting will help determine his ceiling. After shooting a combined 26.9 percent in his first two years at Colorado, Simpson shot an efficient 43.4 percent last season.

More: KJ Simpson: NBA draft scouting report

(Baylor: Wing, Senior, 6-9)

Previous rank: 52 (+2) / Best rank: 41 / Worst rank: NR

Jalen Bridges has caught the eyes of NBA executives searching for 3-and-D wing role players because of his positional size, defensive activity, and three-point efficiency after shooting a career-high 41.2 percent on a career-high 5.1 attempts per game.

After earning All-Big 12 honors as a senior, NBA talent evaluators believe Bridges will mirror his role at Baylor heading into the league and become a potentially effective role player around stars.

More: Jalen Bridges: NBA draft scouting report

(Ratiopharm Ulm: Guard, International, 6-3)

Previous rank: 54 (+3) / Best rank: 35 / Worst rank: NR

Juan Nunez is arguably one of the most underrated players in the draft, given his accomplishments as one of the top breakout players at the 2023 FIBA World Cup by HoopsHype’s Alberto De Roa, and had one of the highest global ratings among younger players in the tournament.

Nunez was among the 22 players named to the Spanish men’s national team training camp roster for the 2024 Olympic qualifying tournament on July 2-7 in Malaga, Spain, and he’s worked out for multiple teams.

Nunez has a chance to become a backup point guard and a steady ball handler and playmaker for others while improving his shooting consistency.

More: Juan Nuñez: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Washington State: Wing, Junior, 6-8)

Previous rank: 57 (+5) / Best rank: 42 / Worst rank: NR

The Golden State Warriors have several upcoming items on the offseason agenda, including Klay Thompson’s free agency, attempting to extend forward Jonathan Kuminga, and figuring out whether to guarantee Kevon Looney’s salary for the upcoming season.

Kuminga will likely be a Warrior going forward unless he’s needed in a trade package for an All-NBA player, HoopsHype has learned.

According to league sources who spoke with HoopsHype, it would be a surprise if Looney was waived by the Warriors before his salary guarantees ahead of free agency, echoing a report from The Athletic. Trading Looney is a possibility.

As for the selection, Jaylen Wells has risen after making his debut in the HoopsHype aggregate NBA mock draft last week.

Wells began his career at Division-II’s Sonoma State and transferred to Washington State for his junior season. He has since become a draft prospect by shooting 41.7 percent from downtown and could become a 3-and-D player.

More: Jaylen Wells: NBA draft scouting report

(Kentucky: Wing, Senior, 6-5)

Previous rank: NR / Best rank: 33 / Worst rank: NR

Antonio Reeves was an All-SEC performer who shot career-highs from the field (.512) and beyond the arc (.447) for Kentucky en route to 20.2 points per game.

Reeves has a chance to make an NBA roster as a shooter in a league that highly values floor spacing.

More: Antonio Reeves: NBA draft scouting report

(Adelaide 36ers: Wing, International, 6-8)

Previous rank: 48 (-6) / Best rank: 23 / Worst rank: NR

Trentyn Flowers moves fluidly, handles the ball well for his size, and can play in pick-and-roll actions. Defensively, he moves his feet well and has the physical tools to become a good defender.

More: Trentyn Flowers: NBA draft scouting report

(USC: Guard, Freshman, 6-4)

Previous rank: 55 (-) / Best rank: 43 / Worst rank: NR

Bronny James is entrenched to the Los Angeles Lakers with the No. 55 overall selection.

James has a strong physique and is more athletic than the average point guard. He can hit NBA three-pointers. Defensively, he’s constantly engaged as a physical on-ball defender who creates steals as an off-ball defender.

More: Bronny James: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(Marquette: Forward, Senior, 6-11)

Previous rank: 51 (-5) / Best rank: 39 / Worst rank: NR

Oso Ighodaro tied for the highest standing vertical leap at 35 inches and posted a 39.5-inch max vertical leap at the NBA Draft combine.

Ighodaro is one of the best passers in the draft, who can find cutters out of the post and is effective on dribble hand-offs. Offensively, Ighodaro is a limited shooter outside of the paint and a poor foul shooter.

Defensively, Ighodaro is a good shot blocker, an adequate rebounder, and athletic enough to switch onto smaller players along the perimeter.

The possibility of Denver alternating between the passing of Nikola Jokic and Ighodaro off the bench would consistently have defenses on their toes.

More: Oso Ighodaro: NBA draft scouting report and intel

(UConn: Guard, Senior, 6-5)

Previous rank: NR / Best rank: 44 / Worst rank: NR

Tristen Newton helped UConn win consecutive championships after transferring from East Carolina. In his second season as a Huskie, Newton showed improved playmaking skills as the lead guard, averaging a career-high 6.2 assists and is a good rebounder for his position (6.2 boards per game).

The 23-year-old guard will have to improve his perimeter shooting, but his career 83 percent shooting from the foul line suggests he could eventually.

More: Tristen Newton: NBA draft scouting report

(UConn: Guard, Senior, 6-4)

Previous rank: NR / Best rank: 43 / Worst rank: NR

The Dallas Mavericks are dangling the expiring $16.2 million contract of guard Tim Hardaway Jr. on the trade market, league sources told HoopsHype.

After appearing in 79 games and averaging 14.4 points off the bench, he became a non-factor in the playoffs, leading to frustration over his role and future with Dallas.

Cam Spencer shot 44 percent from beyond the arc and could potentially replace Hardaway’s floor spacing on offense for Dallas.

More: Cam Spencer: NBA draft scouting report

You can follow Michael Scotto (@MikeAScotto) on X, formerly known as Twitter.