The Atlanta Hawks hit the jackpot, landing the No. 1 pick in the NBA Draft, but it comes in one of the most uncertain classes in recent history.
There is uncertainty surrounding the top selection, but the consensus choice is between Zacchiare Risacher (JL Bourg), Alex Sarr (Perth Wildcats), and Donovan Clingan (UConn). ESPN’s Jonathan Givony believes Clingan may be the Hawks’ favorite of the bunch, adding that the organization has failed to see Sarr workout.
“The Hawks have been unable to bring Alex Sarr in for a workout to this point, but the door remains open for that to potentially happen. Clingan appears to be Risacher's main rival at No. 1.”
Clingan is a potential Defensive Player of the Year down the road, largely due to his frame and physical tools. He averaged 2.5 blocks last season with the Huskies. Other teams likely view Sarr or Risacher as their top prospects, meaning Atlanta could explore a trade back for future capital.
If the pick becomes available, the San Antonio Spurs should strongly consider moving their top-10 picks to land a second French star to pair alongside generational talent Victor Wembanyama.