The NBA Draft is less than four weeks away, and the excitement is palpable. After winning the No. 1 overall pick, the Atlanta Hawks are at the center of a heated debate about their next move. French forward Alex Sarr has long been the favorite to go first, but those odds are tightening.
Alex Sarr: The Early Favorite
Alex Sarr has been the frontrunner, with Caesars Sportsbook placing his odds at -200. His impressive skills and potential have made him the player to watch. Sarr’s versatility and defensive prowess have drawn comparisons to some of the best forwards in the league.
Zaccharie Risacher: The Rising Contender
However, French wing Zaccharie Risacher is gaining traction. With +185 odds to be picked No. 1, Risacher’s stock is rising quickly. At 6’8″ and 204 lbs, Risacher’s two-way versatility makes him an ideal fit for the Hawks, who need a strong player in their lineup.
Bleacher Report’s Jonathan Wasserman and ESPN’s Jonathan Givony have both recently mocked Risacher going to Atlanta. Wasserman noted:
The Decision-Making Process
The Hawks’ front office is still in the early stages of decision-making. According to Givony:
The uncertainty around the futures of stars Trae Young and Dejounte Murray adds another layer of complexity. The Hawks might trade the pick for more immediate contributors or move down in the draft to gain additional assets.
Risacher’s Strong Season
Risacher’s recent performance in the playoffs has been outstanding. He averaged 15.1 points and 7.4 rebounds per game, shooting 67% from the field and 38% on 3-pointers. His upcoming participation in the NBA Global Camp in Treviso, Italy, will be crucial as he undergoes medical examinations and draft combine activities, including interviews with interested teams.
Wasserman adds:
NBA Draft 2024: The Final Weeks
With four weeks remaining until the draft, nothing is set in stone. The momentum behind Risacher is strong, but much can change. The Hawks are conducting a thorough process, and the decision could go either way. Risacher might end up as the top pick, providing Atlanta with a needed two-way player who fits well with their existing lineup.
Looking Forward
As the NBA Draft approaches, the debate between Alex Sarr and Zaccharie Risacher intensifies. Both players have their strengths and potential to make a significant impact. The final decision will come down to the Hawks’ strategic needs and the evolving dynamics of their roster.
