As the 2024 NBA Draft unfolds, rising star A.J. Beal’s team sent a clear message: top-tier talent demands more than just a jersey — it needs a real growth path. In this deep dive, I break down why playing time and role clarity aren’t just perks — they’re contracts in disguise. From Brooklyn’s bench wars to Washington’s developmental dreams, one truth stands out: if you draft a future star, don’t treat him like a backup plan.