2024 NBA Mock Draft 1.0: Hornets trade No. 6 pick, Grizzlies land top star
By Jack Simone
4. Reed Sheppard, Kentucky | San Antonio Spurs
With this pick, the San Antonio Spurs would get Reed Sheppard, who could end up being the best player in this draft. His blend of shooting, shot creation, and defense make him one of the most NBA-ready players available.
5. Matas Buzelis, G League Ignite | Detroit Pistons
Matas Buzelis to the Detroit Pistons is a pick that lots of people have mocked in the past, and that’s because it makes a ton of sense. His all-around skill set and size on the wing would help him fit perfectly alongside Cade Cunningham and the rest of Detroit’s core.
6. TRADE | Pelicans get No. 6 pick, Grant Williams, Nick Richards, Davis Bertans, Two future second-round picks; Hornets get Brandon Ingram
Pelicans select Stephon Castle, UConn
It seems as though Brandon Ingram’s time with the New Orleans Pelicans is coming to a close, and the Charlotte Hornets could use another offensive engine.
Adding Ingram to a core that already includes LaMelo Ball, Brandon Miller, and Mark Williams would immediately propel the Hornets into playoff contention in the Eastern Conference.
Meanwhile, the Pelicans would break up Ingram’s salary into smaller deals, landing two rotation pieces—Grant Williams and Nick Richards—in the process.
Plus, New Orleans would get the chance to add UConn’s Stephon Castle, who would improve their perimeter defense and potentially help them find a long-term point guard solution next to Zion Williamson.