Who are the Atlanta Hawks’ best options at No. 1 in the 2024 NBA Draft?

The Atlanta Hawks have all eyes on them, just days before the 2024 NBA Draft.

This class doesn’t have anyone considered a generational talent like Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs, which means the Hawks’ pick at No. 1 gets a little more complicated. There are three players considered consensus top-tier prospects, so here’s why the Atlanta front office could choose to select each of them:

Zacharie Risacher

Risacher has been climbing the draft rankings in recent days, with the majority of betting sites and mock drafts placing him as the favorite to land in Atlanta. He played last season with JL Bourg in the French LNB Élite league, averaging 11.1 points and 4 rebounds between the EuroCup and Pro A. At 6-foot-8 and 204 pounds, Risacher fits the mold perfect for a modern day striker. His length allows him to easily launch highly contested shots from the outside while finishing over the defense. He has yet to exhibit any elite defensive traits, but has all the tools necessary to become a solid defender.

Donovan Clingan

The back-to-back national champion could fit well into almost any offense in the league, thanks in large part to his mobile interior defense and NBA readiness. Clingan learned what it takes to win in two seasons with the UConn Huskies, an aspect of his skill set that few people possess. With championship contenders reportedly calling on veteran Clint Capela, the Hawks must fill the void left behind. At 7-foot-2, Clingan was able to lock down the paint on both ends of the court, averaging 13 points, 7.4 rebounds and 2.5 blocks on 63.9% shooting last season.

Alex Sarr

Although the Hawks weren’t able to bring in Sarr for private training, his potential may be too great to pass on. Most believe Sarr is sending Atlanta the message that he hopes to join the Washington Wizards at No. 2, and the last outcome the organization wants is an unhappy rookie. He averaged 9.7 points and 4.4 rebounds on 52% shooting in 24 games with the Perth Wildcats. At 7-foot-1 with elite physical attributes on both ends of the court, it will be difficult to hear his name called after just one pick.

Trade with the San Antonio Spurs

Instead of Sarr leaving the board to join the Wizards, the Hawks could strike a deal with general manager Brian Wright and the Spurs. It’s been no secret throughout the draft process that San Antonio wants to move its multiple top-10 picks to move into the top 3. If Atlanta believes Clingan will fall to No. 4 and remain high on his potential, it’s a no-brainer to trade with the Spurs.