The 2024 NBA Draft's first round has concluded, showcasing a series of unexpected moves and strategic trades that are setting the tone for what promises to be an intriguing second round on Thursday. Among the highlights, the New York Knicks made significant headlines with their acquisitions and trades, while other teams also made pivotal selections that could reshape their future.
Knicks Make Bold Moves
On Tuesday, the New York Knicks made a strategic acquisition by bringing in Mikal Bridges, a player celebrated for his defensive capabilities and proficient three-point shooting. Bridges' addition to the roster is a clear indication of the Knicks' intent to bolster their defensive lineup while adding depth to their offensive play. The excitement surrounding Bridges' arrival was further amplified on Wednesday when the Knicks re-signed OG Anunoby, reinforcing their commitment to fortifying their squad with strong defenders.
In a notable draft night trade, the Knicks exchanged one of their first-round picks with the Oklahoma City Thunder for five second-round picks. This maneuver could be seen as a long-term investment, offering the Knicks more flexibility and potential future assets. Furthermore, the Knicks used their No. 25 pick to select Pacome Dadiet, adding a promising talent to their expanding roster.
Lakers Nab Knecht at No. 17
The Los Angeles Lakers made a significant pick by selecting Dalton Knecht with the 17th overall selection. Knecht, who was projected to be chosen within the top 10, presents excellent value at this position. The rookie is expected to earn $18.5 million over his first four years, although his projected earnings could have skyrocketed to over $34 million had he been picked at the No. 6 spot. Knecht’s fall in the draft could be a blessing in disguise for the Lakers, giving them a highly-regarded talent with a chip on his shoulder.
Top Picks and Surprises
The Atlanta Hawks secured the No. 1 overall pick with Zaccharie Risacher, a decision that could shape their franchise's future. Risacher is set to earn approximately $57 million over the first four seasons of his career, a substantial investment reflecting the Hawks' belief in his potential impact. At the No. 2 spot, Alex Sarr was selected, followed by a series of intriguing picks across the league.
The Charlotte Hornets opted for Tidjane Salaun at No. 6, while Donovan Clingan found his new home with the Portland Trail Blazers at No. 7. The Memphis Grizzlies selected Zach Edey with the No. 9 pick, adding depth to their frontcourt. In a notable move, the San Antonio Spurs picked Stephon Castle at No. 4 but decided to trade their No. 8 pick, Rob Dillingham, to the Minnesota Timberwolves. The trade yielded the Spurs an unprotected 2031 first-round pick and a protected 2030 first-round swap, signifying a strategic play for long-term championship aspirations.
Strategic Insights
The trade involving the Spurs and the Timberwolves has sparked considerable discussion. Sam Quinn commented on the potential value of the picks, stating, “You might be thinking: How valuable could the Wolves' 2030 and/or 2031 pick(s) be considering how good of a team they have? Well, that's over a half-decade from now.” Quinn also highlighted the long-term unpredictability of NBA teams' fortunes, adding, “It might actually be smarter to bet on good teams right now falling off five or six years from now than bad teams still being bad that far down the road.”
The Spurs’ decision to accumulate future draft assets could enhance their chances of landing high-value picks in upcoming drafts. Quinn summed it up succinctly by saying, “The more you bet on other teams' picks, the better your chances of a few of them turning up golden.”
As Day One of the draft wrapped up, it became clear that teams are not just looking at immediate gains but are strategically positioning themselves for the future. The second round on Thursday will offer additional opportunities for teams to build on their current progress and potentially uncover hidden gems that could make a significant impact in the coming seasons.