“After the NBA Draft lottery and the ongoing NBA Combine in Chicago, attention has shifted to the Atlanta Hawks and their potential selection with the top pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. ESPN’s Jonathan Givony has identified two Kentucky guards as prime candidates for this coveted spot.
Reed Sheppard and Rob Dillingham are reportedly ‘under consideration’ by the Hawks, according to Givony. Sheppard made a strong impression at the combine this week, while Dillingham faced challenges after an injury sidelined him early on.
Although both players are locked in as top-10 picks, Givony’s mention of them as potential top picks marks the first clarity in a draft class where the top prospects have been unclear.
Despite having point guard Trae Young, rumors have circulated that the Hawks might use their top overall pick to rebuild and potentially move Young. In this scenario, selecting a guard would be a priority.
While most mock drafts project Sheppard and Dillingham to go between picks 3 and 8, Givony’s assessment comes as a surprise. Sheppard is often seen as the higher-rated prospect of the two.
Both players are coming off impressive freshman seasons at Kentucky, and in a draft class that analysts have labeled as ‘historically bad,’ their potential to rise further in the draft boards is evident.
Next, both players will participate in individual workouts, where they are expected to further stand out. Other players mentioned alongside Sheppard and Dillingham for the top spot include Alex Sarr, Zaccharie Risacher, and Donovan Clingan.”
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