NBA draft 2024: Atlanta Hawks may be going in a different direction with the No. 1 pick

The choice for the No. 1 pick in the 2024 NBA draft could come down to the “has’ and “has not” for the Atlanta Hawks.

Zaccharie Risacher has worked out for the Hawks, who possess the No. 1 pick. Alex Sarr reportedly has not.

Risacher, who was already viewed as a possible No. 1 pick in some mock drafts in the weeks leading up to Wednesday’s draft, may have cemented his status as the top pick with a strong performance in front of the Hawks.

The 6-foot-9 Risacher is viewed a “3-and-D” prospect, someone who is capable of making 3-point shots while excelling as a defender. Risacher’s offense needs work, critics say his perimeter shots is inconsistent and he lacks the ability to create his own shot. Some mock drafts still project another player from France, Alex Sarr, as the Hawks’ choice at No. 1. However, Sarr has yet to work out for the Hawks, which will likely be a factor in the Hawks’ decision.

Sarr has worked out for the Washington Wizards, who hold the No.2 pick. If the Hawks pass on Sarr, the Wizards are expected to select him. If Risacher and Sarr are selected with the first two picks, the Houston Rockets are a mystery at No. 3.

The Rockets are reportedly interested in trading down to acquire proven veterans to add to a young team. However, the Rockets have been increasingly connected to Kentucky guard Reed Sheppard at No. 3 in mock drafts.

Sheppard has rocketed up draft boards after the pre-draft combine and individual workouts while taking advantage of a wide open draft class. Sheppard’s ability to make perimeter shots, particularly 3-pointers, is appealing to the Rockets, who made 36.1% of the 3-point shots, 23rd in the league last season.