2024 NBA Mock Draft: Rockets snag potential star at 4, Wizards change fortunes

The 2024 NBA Draft is just under eight months away, and it is still extremely early in the process. The G League Ignite has played a few exhibitions and leagues across Europe are underway. NCAA basketball kicks off on Nov. 6 and will give everyone a much clearer picture of this class.

The Rockets enter the season in a precarious position. They upgraded their roster this summer in hopes of jumping back into contention but could be on the outside of the playoff picture in the crowded Western Conference. Houston owes their 2024 first-round pick to the Thunder with just a top-four protection. Even the team with the worst regular season record can fall to fifth in the lottery, so it will certainly be a nervous night if the Rockets miss the playoffs.

Houston has a ton of young talent, including 2023 fourth overall pick Amen Thompson and could end up with two firsts in 2024. This class lacks a defined number-one pick but has plenty of intriguing options. Here is a way-too-early look at how things stand.

1. Washington Wizards select Ron Holland

The race to go number one overall has little clarity, but Holland gets the early nod because of his size, athletic ability, and ball-handling. He is 6’8 with the potential to impact the game on both ends of the floor. The G League Ignite is loaded this season, and Holland enters as their best player.

The Washington Wizards are just starting a rebuild and getting a 6’8 ball-handler who can help the team win on both ends is a fantastic start. Holland must improve his jumper, but the 18-year-old certainly has All-Star and All-NBA potential.

2. Portland Trail Blazers take Matas Buzelis

The Ignite currently has the top two projected players in this class. Buzelis is two inches taller than Holland and offers a similar ability to handle the ball and run the offense. His upside is massive. He could be a 6’10 offensive creator who can guard multiple positions. The 19-year-old needs time to develop, but the G League Ignite will be must-watch this season.

The Blazers are starting a rebuild and need forward help. Adding Matas Buzelis would give them a young talented starting five with a ton of offensive versatility.

3. San Antonio Spurs draft Isaiah Collier

The Spurs have two top-ten picks in this mock and a desperate need at point guard. Victor Wembanyama is a historically great prospect, but San Antonio must put the right pieces around him if they want to get back into title contention. Getting a lead ball-handler and playmaker who can grow next to Wemby is crucial.

Collier profiles as one of the best passers and playmakers in this class. The 6’3 guard loves to get his teammates involved and could be a fantastic fit in the Alamo. He needs to shine at USC to be a top-five pick in June. Isaiah Collier must get more aggressive and increase his scoring, but his unselfishness will fit well under head coach Gregg Popovich.