The first night of the 2024 WWE Draft, a critical moment intended to shake up the WWE universe, concluded with a sense of anticlimax, stirring widespread dissatisfaction among fans. Despite the potential for major changes, the evening on SmackDown was marked by minimal shifts that maintained the status quo rather than reinvigorating the rosters of SmackDown and Raw.
Predictable Moves and Unmet Expectations
In theory, the draft was designed to redistribute talent and inject fresh dynamics into WWE storylines. However, with only a handful of Superstars changing sides, the night lacked the dramatic flair many were anticipating. The moves made, while logical in some aspects, did little to alter the foundational landscape of the WWE, leaving both long-term storylines and current rivalries mostly intact.
This conservative strategy, seemingly favored by Paul “Triple H” Levesque, hints at an underlying reluctance to disrupt the existing narrative arcs significantly. Although stability can be valuable, the draft’s excitement traditionally stems from unexpected changes and the new matchups they create.
Lackluster Presentation and Strategic Gaps
The draft’s presentation, inspired by the high-energy NFL Draft format, fell flat within the WWE context. Fans in the arena and at home voiced their discontent about the lackluster ambiance when the draft picks were announced, indicating a missed opportunity to capitalize on the inherent drama of the draft process.
The roles of general managers Adam Pearce for Raw and Nick Aldis for SmackDown were notably muted. Their limited on-screen participation during the draft undermined the sense of rivalry and strategic competition that could have been highlighted between the brands. This absence of authority figures actively discussing and defending their choices detracted from the draft’s overall impact and transparency.
Controversial Draft Choices and NXT Involvement
The order of picks also sparked controversy among fans. While top-tier athletes like Bianca Belair and Seth Rollins were understandably prioritized, selections such as Nia Jax and Ricochet ahead of prominent figures like AJ Styles raised eyebrows. These decisions seemed to lack a clear strategic foundation, confusing fans about the criteria guiding the selections.
NXT’s role in the draft was a mixed bag. The inclusion of NXT talents like Carmelo Hayes marked a positive note, highlighting up-and-coming stars. However, the rationale behind certain NXT picks over more established main roster talents was not clearly communicated, leading to questions about the drafting strategy for NXT performers.
Looking Ahead: The Pressure is On for Night 2
As the WWE approaches Night 2 of the Draft, the pressure mounts to address the shortcomings of the initial night. The upcoming selections not only need to be more impactful but also strategically sound to revitalize interest and excitement in the brand dynamics. Fans will be particularly keen on seeing higher-profile moves and a better explanation of draft logic that could set the stage for compelling new storylines and rivalries.
The WWE has an opportunity to rectify the tepid response to Night 1 by making bold choices and enhancing the involvement of NXT, potentially delivering the dramatic shakeup that fans eagerly anticipate. Only by embracing more substantial changes can the WWE Draft live up to its potential as a pivotal event in reshaping the landscape of professional wrestling.