2024 NBA Mock Draft: Spurs prioritize two-way talents, Magic land surprise steal

Pick No. 21: New Orleans Pelicans (via Bucks) select Carlton Carrington

Carlton Carrington has risen in recent mock drafts and could even be in play as a late lottery pick. The Pittsburgh guard averaged 13.8 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.1 assists his first year on 41/32/79 shooting splits. Carrington also scored 24 points, five assists, and three assists in the ACC Semifinal. He has excellent positional size at 6-foot-4, which, combined with his athleticism, quick hands, and high basketball IQ, could make him a solid defender at the next level.

The Pelicans have a rotation that will likely consistently take them to the playoffs. However, in the loaded Western Conference, making any significant noise in the playoffs is going to be challenging for them. They have a deep bench but still need improvement in their point guard position. Currently, the Pelicans have CJ McCollum as their starting point guard. McCollum is an excellent player and a worthy starter. Still, he’s better suited as a shooting guard, as playmaking isn’t necessarily his calling card, averaging only 4.6 assists and three turnovers per game this past season.

Carrington would give the Pelicans a much-needed point guard while not sacrificing their team identity, which revolves around their versatility, positional size, and switchability.