With less than a week remaining before the highly anticipated 2024 NBA Draft, the landscape of the event continues to evolve with surprising twists and turns. As teams conduct their final in-house workouts and meetings, several players have emerged as potential top picks, while others have seen their draft stock take a hit.

One player who has generated considerable buzz is UConn center Donovan Clingan. The 7-foot-2, 280-pound big man has firmly entered the conversation for the coveted No. 1 overall pick, with the Atlanta Hawks among the teams showing great interest. Clingan has not only worked out for the Hawks but also for the Washington Wizards and Detroit Pistons, all of whom have picks within the top five. The decision ultimately rests with the Hawks' organization, with head coach Quin Snyder reportedly favoring Clingan over French wing Zaccharie Risacher.

Another prospect on the rise is Providence guard Devin Carter. Throughout the pre-draft process, Carter has impressed teams with his workouts, particularly catching the attention of those within the top 10. The San Antonio Spurs, holding the No. 8 pick, are seriously considering selecting Carter, although the outcome may hinge on their decision with the No. 4 pick. If he doesn't crack the top 10, Carter could potentially join the Miami Heat at the 15th pick.

Among the players experiencing a late surge is 7-foot-4 center Zach Edey. Despite initial fluctuations on draft boards, Edey now appears to be a lock for the first round and potentially within the top 20. His massive size and strategic utilization as a center make him an intriguing prospect, although the NBA's adaptation to his unique physicality remains uncertain.

Illinois guard Terrence Shannon Jr., who was recently cleared of all charges by a Kansas jury, has showcased his abilities in various pre-draft workouts. Shannon's strong performances in the Big Ten tournament and NCAA tournament have caught the attention of teams, and he could be selected anywhere between the 25th and 35th pick, despite not receiving a green-room invite.

DaRon Holmes II, a player with tremendous potential as an inside-out big, has received a late invitation to the green room. His versatility on the wing, combined with his solid shooting ability (nearly 40% from 3-point range), has intrigued teams across the league. The Milwaukee Bucks are rumored to be considering him with the 23rd pick, while the Denver Nuggets may have made a promise at the 28th selection.

On the other hand, some prospects have seen their projections decline. G League Ignite forward Ron Holland, once considered a top prospect, has slipped down draft boards. Despite his strong defensive skills, averaging 2.5 steals per game, his limited off-ball production and outside shooting have become areas of concern. Holland's teammate, Matas Buzelis, has remained in the 5-10 range, while Holland's potential landing spot now hovers around the back end of the lottery or the late-teens.

Kentucky point guard Rob Dillingham has encountered a setback as well, as a minor ankle injury led to limited pre-draft workouts. Concerns regarding his size (just under 6-2 and 164 pounds) and defensive foot speed may cause Dillingham to slip outside the lottery and into the mid-first round.

The 2024 NBA Draft promises to be full of surprises, with rising stars and failing prospects making for an unpredictable event. As teams finalize their strategies, the true order of selections will be revealed on Wednesday night. Until then, the anticipation continues to build among fans and organizations alike.

[Updated Top 40 Big Board:
1. Zaccharie Risacher, G/F
2. Alex Sarr, C
3. Donovan Clingan, C
4. Stephon Castle, G
5. Reed Sheppard, G
6. Matas Buzelis, F
7. Dalton Knecht, G
8. Cody Williams, G/F
9. Tidjane Salaun, G/F
10. Nikola Topić, G
11. Devin Carter, G
12. Carlton Carrington, G
13. Ron Holland, G/F
14. Ja'Kobe Walter, G
15. Jared McCain, G
16. Rob Dillingham, G
17. Kyshawn George, G/F
18. Zach Edey, C
19. Yves Missi, C
20. Tristen da Silva, F
21. Isaiah Collier, G
22. Tyler Kolek, G
23. Kel'el Ware, C
24. DaRon Holmes II, F
25. Terrence Shannon Jr., G
...continued...]