2024 NBA Draft Superlatives: Top Defensive Prospects
Every NBA team could use a versatile defensive player that has the ability to change the game for his team on that end. We have seen players change games with their elite all-around defensive ability with guys like Kawhi Leonard, Jimmy Butler, Draymond Green. Here are the top three versatile defenders that are eligible for the 2024 NBA Draft.
Ron Holland | G League Ignite
Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Ron Holland is considered the top prospect and favorite to go number one in the 2024 NBA Draft, and a lot of that is due to his elite versatile defense. What makes him one of the top defensive prospects in this draft is his ability to defend out on the perimeter at 6-foot-8 at an extremely high level while also showcasing some very good interior defense. Although he still needs to get stronger, he has the frame to add weight and strength which will allow to get even better defensively. Holland plays with a nonstop motor and has the ability to change games with his defensive ability.
Alexandre Sarr | Perth Wildcats
FIBA.com
Alexandre Sarr has a valid argument as the top defensive prospect in the entire draft due to his wild defensive versatility and elite shot-blocking ability. He has great mobility and ground coverage which pairs well with his size as he stands at 7-foot-1 with a 7-foot-5 wingspan. He’s one of the few big men in this draft that has switchability which is a rare and elite skill for big men to have. The French big doesn’t quite have elite strength or muscle but it’s his mobility and quickness that allows him to recover a lot better than any other center in this year’s draft.
Dillon Mitchell | Texas
Scott Wachter-USA TODAY Sports
Dillon Mitchell is an underrated name in this conversation as he showcased elite defensive potential in his freshman year at Texas. He stands at 6-foot-8 is an extremely athletic power forward that can defend out in space at a high level while also being a good secondary rim protector. Mitchell is so quick and light on his feet that it allows him to slide with most ball-handlers in college basketball but can also alter a ton of shots inside the paint. We should expect Mitchell to get even better defensively as he continues to add strength and weight in his sophomore season.
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