Mock NBA Draft 2024: Picks and predictions for all 58 picks in draft
7. (37) Minnesota Timberwolves - Ajay Mitchell, PG, UCSB
Outside of Mike Conley, the Timberwolves biggest need is addressing the backup point guard position. The Timberwolves traded for Monte Morris at the trade deadline last season and also have had Jordan McLaughlin coming off the bench the past few seasons, but both of those guards are upcoming free agents. Mitchell was more of a scorer at UC-Santa Barbara mostly because he needed to be. However, once the NBA Combine came around, Mitchell played in the scrimmages and he had some impressive flashes of passing upside and playmaking. Nickeil Alexander-Walker also signed just a two-year deal to remain in Minnesota last offseason, so he has a pending free agent at the conclusion of the 2024-25 season. Mitchell helps shore up the most questionable issue the Timberwolves face over the next couple of seasons.
8. (38) New York Knicks - Terrence Shannon Jr., W, Illinois
The last time Shannon played in Madison Square Garden, he dropped 33 points on just 14 shots in route to beating #11 ranked FAU in the Jimmy V Classic. It is highly unlikely the Knicks actually bring in three rookies next season onto their roster, as they already selected Bub Carrington and Yves Missi at picks 24 and 25. Additionally, Shannon is also turning 24 years old next month. Despite this, Shannon is NBA-ready as he was a Third Team All-American this past season. Shannon is a jack of all trades, but a master of none and because he is above-average in a whole slew of NBA skills, he’s a borderline first-round talent and a guy who could make an immediate impact for the Knicks if Coach Tom Thibodeau gives him a chance at minutes.
9. (39) Memphis Grizzlies - Keshad Johnson, PF, Arizona
Keshad Johnson is a top-three defender in this draft class. He tied for the highest vertical jump at the combine, he had a huge spike in shooting this year after transferring from San Diego State, and he has a 6’10” wingspan. Standing at 6’6”, Johnson also has a sturdy and strong frame, as it isn’t easy to push him off his spots when he’s guarding in the post. On top of that, he has great hip fluidity to move defensively on the perimeter. Memphis has questions at the center position, but with Johnson’s defensive versatility, they could play Jaren Jackson Jr. at the five quite frequently. Having JJJ and Keshad Johnson in the same frontcourt is a scary proposition for the Grizzlies to throw at teams on a nightly basis.
10. (40) Portland Trailblazers - Ulrich Chomche, C, Cameroon
Fun fact: Chomche is one of 17 children in his family! Additionally, Chomche was 13 years old the first time he picked up a basketball, as he stood at 6’7” at that time. It is unlikely due to their roster crunch that Portland will bring in four rookies this season. Given this is their fourth pick of the draft and it’s a bit too early to draft someone expecting them to take a two-way contract, I went with a draft and stash here. Chomche is 6’11” with a 7’4” wingspan and he runs the floor like a gazelle. He moves well and is a great athlete, which already makes him a defensive specimen that can continue to develop professionally in Africa or elsewhere overseas.