Notable risers include Kon Knueppel climbing to No. 4 with standout rookie scoring and triple-threat production for the Hornets, plus Ryan Kalkbrenner emerging as a top Suns option at No. 10 after starting for Charlotte and showing strong rebounding and efficient shooting.

Dylan Harper remains the No. 2 pick for the Spurs, maintaining big‑time playmaking potential despite a calf injury, echoing a Harden-like style.

Team-by-team first‑round snapshot: each franchise’s pick, its original draft position, and a concise justification based on early-season performance, efficiency, versatility, and fit.

Trends shaping the mock: age versus ceiling, injury implications, and evolving team needs—e.g., Harper’s injury, Knueppel’s upside, and the Spurs’ long‑term wing landscape.

Notable draft movements: Cedric Coward to No. 5 for the Jazz over Ace Bailey, with Derik Queen rising to No. 8 for the Nets and Khaman Maluach dropping for the Bulls amid injuries.

Top pick rationale remains: Cooper Flagg at No. 1 for the Mavericks due to overall impact and milestone achievements, even as Knueppel continues to push for consideration.

A hypothetical early-season re-draft reorders the first round to reflect current performance and fit, illustrating how perceptions have shifted by quarter one.

Key statistical context underpins rankings, highlighting Flagg’s 17.3 PPG, 6.6 RPG, 3.3 APG, Kalkbrenner’s rebounding and FG percentage, and Coward’s scoring, assists, and boards.