4 2024 NBA Draft prospects who could help the Milwaukee Bucks at center

Zach Edey, Purdue

Zach Edey is one of the most intriguing prospects coming into the draft. The 7-foot-4 center from Purdue has had quite a big range on mock drafts, with some having him as a first-rounder as high as a lottery pick, where others have him as an early second-round pick.

In the most recent ESPN Mock Draft (Subscription required), they have him going at 15. His performances in March Madness in helping Purdue get to the championship game has raised his stock.

In 39 games for the Boilermakers, Edey averaged 25.2 points, 12.2 rebounds and 2.2 blocks on 62.3 percent shooting from the field. Milwaukee's rebounding was solid all season with Giannis, Lopez and Portis all being good on the glass, Edey's size can add to that, and his ability to score inside is some of the best in the draft.

The concerns regarding Edey are he is yet to develop a shot from long-range, so his fit next to Giannis Antetokounmpo would really constrict the paint. Recent footage has shown him taking shots from deep in practice, but that happens with lots of players.

Lopez didn't attempt a 3-pointer for the first six seasons of his NBA career and has since developed into a 35 percent shooter from deep. If the Bucks can somehow have a similar effect with Edey, it would be a solid replacement, and they he would be just starting his career in the association.

Trading up for Edey may be the play if the Bucks really want him, but if he is a potential lottery pick, then it might be best saving assets and looking elsewhere.