NBA Draft 2024 Rumors: Hawks' No. 1 Pick Plan Not Clear Among Rivals After Lottery

The Atlanta Hawks are keeping the rest of the NBA on its toes.

"There is not really a consensus among teams about what the Hawks will do at the top," Sam Vecenie of The Athletic wrote after Atlanta won the 2024 NBA draft lottery on Sunday. "I've given them [Alex] Sarr here because they finished in the bottom four on defense last season and have Clint Capela entering the final year of his contract. Sarr makes the most sense, at least."

Vecenie isn't the only one who sees Sarr going No. 1 during the June 26 and 27 draft.

Bleacher Report's Jonathan Wasserman projected the big man as the No. 1 overall pick in his latest mock draft, although it should be noted that was before Atlanta landed that selection.

"While the main draw to the 7'1" Frenchman revolves around his switchable defense and shot-blocking, the ability to handle in the open floor, shoot with range and knock down pull-ups and fallaways separates him from other rim protectors," Wasserman wrote.

That type of defense would be important for the Hawks and provide them with a safety net in front of the rim for when opposing ball-handlers get past Trae Young.

If the Hawks opt against trading Young this offseason, Sarr should be a quality pick-and-pop partner upon arrival given his shooting touch.

Atlanta has more than a month to decide what direction it will take during the draft. Sarr makes sense on paper given his position and the defense he will provide, but the Eastern Conference club could look to make a move in the backcourt if it decides to move on from Young.

Given the overall uncertainty surrounding the team, all eyes will surely be on the Hawks.