French center Alexandre Sarr, once seen as the leading prospect for the top pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, now appears unlikely to be selected first overall. According to Jake Fischer, there is a strong expectation that Sarr will instead be chosen by the Washington Wizards with the second pick. This outcome has gained momentum especially after Sarr declined a workout opportunity with the Atlanta Hawks, who currently hold the first pick.
Sources close to the situation indicate that the Wizards are committed to selecting Sarr at number two. Washington invested significant resources and time evaluating Sarr while he played for the Perth Wildcats in Australia’s NBL. This scenario aligns well with Sarr’s preferences, as he has conspicuously avoided engaging with the Hawks’ pre-draft process.
During his recent stint in the NBL, Sarr averaged 9.4 points, 4.3 rebounds, 0.9 assists, and 1.5 blocks per game across 27 appearances. Standing at 7’0″, he has been hailed as the prized prospect in a relatively weak draft class. However, his decision not to work out for the Hawks has prompted other contenders, such as fellow Frenchman Zaccharie Risacher and UConn’s Donovan Clingan, to emerge as potential top picks.
Initially enthusiastic about the possibility of joining the Hawks following their Draft Lottery victory in May, Sarr’s subsequent actions suggest a loss of confidence in Atlanta’s ability to utilize him effectively alongside star guards like Trae Young and Dejounte Murray. The Hawks envisioned Sarr in a role akin to Dereck Lively II’s for the Mavericks, but it seems Sarr perceives this as limiting his potential rather than maximizing it.
Conversely, joining the Wizards, despite their recent struggles, offers Sarr a platform to showcase his complete skill set without immediate pressure for immediate success. Partnering with fellow Frenchman Bilal Coulibaly and talents like Deni Avdija in Washington provides an intriguing prospect for Sarr’s development.
In summary, Alexandre Sarr’s draft trajectory appears to be shifting towards the Washington Wizards at number two, marking a significant development in the lead-up to the 2024 NBA Draft.
