Knicks Likely to Keep Picks in NBA Draft, Sixers Speculated to Trade No. 16 Selection
ICARO Media Group
In the latest mock draft by ESPN's Jonathan Givony, the New York Knicks are now expected to retain their three picks in this year's NBA draft. After giving up future first-round picks in the Mikal Bridges trade, the Knicks are opting to hold onto their current selections at No. 24, No. 25, and No. 38.
Givony's mock draft also reveals interesting insights about the Philadelphia 76ers, who have conducted the fewest pre-draft workouts among teams holding a first-round pick. This has fueled speculation that the Sixers may trade their No. 16 selection to another team.
The draft process has posed challenges for some prospects, such as Kentucky's Rob Dillingham, who suffered an ankle injury, preventing him from participating in team workouts. According to Givony, teams picking earlier and later in the first round are now calculating their moves in order to secure Dillingham, who is projected to fall lower than originally anticipated.
The Miami Heat, positioned at No. 15, could be a potential landing spot for Dillingham, as rival teams believe they will choose a guard with that pick. Other prospects mentioned as potential targets for the Heat at No. 15 include Jared McCain, Isaiah Collier, and Carlton Carrington.
In other draft-related news, the Utah Jazz, holding the No. 10 pick, have reportedly explored trade scenarios involving the Detroit Pistons' No. 5 overall selection. Their primary target would be UConn's Stephon Castle, who is also being considered by the Charlotte Hornets at No. 6 and the San Antonio Spurs at No. 4.
The Los Angeles Lakers are also looking to move up from their current No. 17 position in order to target specific players. Sources suggest that Providence's Devin Carter and Baylor's Ja'Kobe Walter are two prospects that have piqued the Lakers' interest.
Finally, in a closer look at the San Antonio Spurs' draft options, rumors have emerged that the team has made a promise to French forward Tidjane Salaun. While unconfirmed by LJ Ellis of SpursTalk, Salaun is listed as the fifth prospect on the Spurs' draft board.
With less than 11 hours remaining until the 2024 NBA draft commences, teams are finalizing their strategies and making deliberations on potential trades and selections. It promises to be an exciting night for basketball fans as future prospects find their new homes in the league.