Duke center Kyle Filipowski was one of the most surprising names not called in the first round of the 2024 NBA Draft, and Celtics' star Jayson Tatum believes teams will regret passing on him. Filipowski had an impressive two seasons at Duke, earning All-ACC and All-American honors during his sophomore year. Despite his 6'11" frame, exceptional passing, and three-point shooting abilities, he slipped in the draft due to concerns about his athleticism.


Tatum is vocal about his own team possibly missing out by not drafting Filipowski, as the Celtics chose Creighton guard Baylor Scheierman with the final pick in Round 1. With Boston's next pick at No. 54, it's unlikely Filipowski and Tatum will be teammates next season.


While Filipowski's athletic limitations might explain his draft position in most years, it’s perplexing in a class considered one of the weakest in recent memory. Several players with lesser resumes were selected before him, even by contending teams willing to gamble on potential rather than opt for a safe pick like Filipowski.


Even if Filipowski never becomes a starter, his ability to stretch the floor and his high basketball IQ make him a valuable asset. He could seamlessly fit into many NBA rosters and contribute as a seventh or eighth man, which would be a success in this draft class.


It's unlikely Filipowski will remain available for long in Round 2. The Toronto Raptors hold the No. 31 overall pick and might select him or use their position to negotiate a trade with a team eager to move up.


NBA front offices clearly grade Filipowski lower than fans—and some players—but his offensive talent is too significant for him to fall much further. B/R's Jonathan Wasserman projects Filipowski going No. 34 overall to the Portland Trail Blazers, labeling him the top player still on the board.