2024 NBA Mock Draft: Raptors win the Lottery, Kentucky guards plummet

It's time for another 2024 NBA Mock Draft! This version has the Raptors picking first, the Spurs taking another Frenchman, and Kentucky's guards plummeting.

Jesse Wagstaff, Alex Sarr, Perth Wildcats and Matas Buzelis, Ron Holland, G League Ignite / Ethan Miller/GettyImages

4 of 15

3. Charlotte Hornets select Stephon Castle

The first college player off the board is Stephon Castle here at No. 3. The Charlotte Hornets were a mess this past season, but they also have a number of young players who look like they could start long-term for the team as it becomes a playoff contender; they may not be that far from ending their rebuild.

With LaMelo Ball running the show, Mark Williams at center and Brandon Miller as a high-scoring wing, what the Hornets need is a difference-maker on defense on the perimeter. Stephon Castle fits that need like a glove, one of the best perimeter defenders in this class.

Castle is 6'6" and uses that size to his advantage, swallowing opposing guards or taking on larger wings. Defensively, Castle can take on the most difficult opposing perimeter player, with Miller taking the next and LaMelo Ball taking the worst; each has the size to crossmatch and even switch.

On offense, then, the order completely flips. Castle has the strength to be a good finisher and he can handle the ball, but his shot is a massive question mark and he is a good, not great, passer. With LaMelo and Miller, however, the Hornets don't need Castle to be a difference-maker on that end. This is the best combination of talent and fit.

Home/Raptors Mock Drafts