2022 NBA Mock Draft 1

This is my first mock draft for the 2022 NBA Draft.  This one has picks as of prior to the lottery on May 17^th at 8 PM.  I plan on releasing mock drafts prior to the NBA Draft and possibly after the final date for the final date for domestic prospects to withdraw.  All stats are per Sports-Reference (for college), Real GM (for international), and G-League (for G-League).

As a note, there are only 58 picks since Milwaukee and Miami were stripped of their 2nd round picks for violating anti-tampering rules.

 

 

1:  Houston Rockets:  Chet Holmgren

Gonzaga, C/PF, Freshman, 20, 7’0, 195 lbs.

Comparison:  Skinnier Evan Mobley with a jumper or skinnier Pau Gasol with a higher defensive IQ

Ceiling:  2-Way Superstar

Floor:  Solid shooter who can block some but isn’t a star due to being too skinny

Holmgren has been a polarizing player for understandable reasons:  he can shoot (39.0% from 3, 71.7% from the line), defend (3.7 BPG, 7.5 DBPM, 78.7 DRtg), and rebound (9.9 RPG) at a high level for a 7’ big, but he is only 195 pounds and was often beat up when playing more physical opponents.  That said, his ability to shoot makes starting Holmgren with a role like Evan Mobley had this year (playing as a 4 alongside another big) will allow him to develop, especially since Holmgren plays well outside of the paint on offense.  While Houston could also go with Jabari Smith or Paolo Banchero, I think they view Holmgren’s upside as incredibly enticing when paired with another young star in Jalen Green and some of their other young players.

 

2:  Orlando Magic:  Paolo Banchero

Duke, PF, Freshman, 19, 6’10, 250 lbs.

Comparison:  Something between Jayson Tatum and Chris Webber (I think closer to early Tatum in style)

Ceiling:  One of the best offensive players in the game

Floor:  High volume bench scorer

There are some who consider Banchero the top player in the draft and it makes sense considering how polished of a scorer he is.  He averaged 17.2 PPG, shot 52.5% from 2, and had a 52.0 eFG%.  While his jumper is a bit streaky (33.8% from 3), his free throw shooting isn’t elite (72.9%), and tends to favor the midrange game over 3’s at times, he still is a solid shooter.  His freshman year reminds me a bit of Tatum’s, though Tatum was better at shooting and shot more 3’s while Banchero was better at finishing inside.  That said, the big question that could prevent him from being a star is his defense; while most young players often dog it defensively due to the expectations being more on the offensive end, I’m not sure Banchero even knows what to do at times defensively.  I could see Orlando also going for Jabari Smith, but Banchero gives them a go-to scorer that will take some pressure off Cole Anthony and (if he has a breakthrough year that I could see happening) Jalen Suggs.  I think players like Jonathan Isaac (if health) and Wendell Carter can ease some of the defense off while Banchero learns how to play that end of the floor.

 

3:  Detroit Pistons:  Jabari Smith

Auburn, PF, Freshman, 19, 6’10, 210 lbs.

Comparison:  Maybe Rashard Lewis with better defense?

Ceiling:  2-way sidekick star

Floor:  Big 3-and-D starter on a winning team

I’m in a weird place with Smith:  he’s my favorite player in the draft but I have no idea who to compare him to.  Everyone is making the Rashard Lewis comparison and while I don’t love it due to some differences on both ends (especially the fact that Smith actually could be a good defender), I can’t come up with a better one (next best I can think of is Robert Covington, but they play too differently) so I’m stealing it.  He is an excellent shooter (42.0% from 3, 79.9% from the line) while shooting them at a high volume (44.0% of shots came from deep).  He also is a physical defender who seems really smart about positioning and how to use his athleticism and body to slow down players, especially around the perimeter.  He struggled inside the arc on both ends, especially from shooting (43.5% from 2) and is not always a good decision maker on the ball, but I think he’s NBA ready as long as he has an NBA point guard.  This is why Detroit and Smith would be perfect pairings:  Cade Cunningham looks like he will be a good playmaker in the NBA, which will allow Smith to play off the ball more, and he could take pressure of Cunningham offensively while providing improved defense to a young team.

 

4:  Oklahoma City Thunder:  Jaden Ivey

Purdue, SG, Sophomore, 20, 6’4, 200 lbs.

Comparison:  Derrick Rose

Ceiling:  All-NBA explosive scoring guard

Floor:  High volume bench scorer

Ivey is an exceptional athlete who showed that he could score at will at points in college.  He averaged 17.3 PPG while shooting 46.0% from the field, 53.1% from 2, 35.8% from 3, 74.4% from the line, and 53.3% eFG%.  If you really want to be excited about his potential in the NBA, his shooting splits and body type are both nearly identical to those of Derrick Rose in college, though Rose was a bit younger (I feel like Ivey might not have quite that upside, but stylistically is so similar).  He took on a heavy load and, while his jumper was streaky at times, was still able to thrive on offense.  There are questions about his playmaking and defense, the former of which I consider a bigger question mark than the latter.  Because of his streaky shot, size, and heavy on-ball duties in college (28.7 USG%), I expect he will be more of a point guard in the NBA, which will be an issue since he had just 3.1 APG to 2.6 TOV.  The good news for him is that he does seem to be smart at positioning himself off the ball.  As for his defense, I think that’s just a lack of effort on that end, since he has glimpses where he is spectacular on that end.  I think Oklahoma City will just take the best player available with this pick, and Ivey seems to be not too much of a drop-off after the top 3; he also gives them another scorer alongside Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

 

5:  Indiana Pacers:  Keegan Murray

Iowa, SF/PF, Sophomore, 21, 6’8, 215 lbs.

Comparison:  Aaron Gordon with a jumper

Ceiling:  2-Way good starter with All-Star potential

Floor:  Solid all-around bench player

While there is a bit of a drop-off by the time the 5^th pick rolls around, there are several quality players still available, including Murray.  Murray can do a lot of things well, including finishing (62.1% form 2), defending (especially on the perimeter), defending off switches, shooting (39.8% from 3, 74.7% from the line), making the right plays off the ball, and playing hard.  While he is older than any other players in this range, might struggle at first due to the jump, is a streaky shooter, and isn’t the best paint defender, he has such a high floor and should be ready to contribute in multiple ways quickly.  Indiana is in an interesting situation because they might still be trying to win and they just acquired Tyrese Haliburton at the deadline, meaning that they might not be desperate to obtain a potential star.  I think Murray would be a nice fit with them due to his ability to do multiple things off the ball and has the highest floor out of those remaining.  Even if he doesn’t become a star, I think having Murray play a role like the one Aaron Gordon has in Denver would be the best for both parties.

 

6:  Portland Trail Blazers:  Shaedon Sharpe

Kentucky, SG/SF, Redshirt, 19, 6’6, 175 lbs.

Comparison:  Jaylen Brown as a more willing playmaker

Ceiling:  One of the top players in the league

Floor:  A player who doesn’t make it in the league

Sharpe is the biggest mystery in the lottery since he is a freak athlete and incredibly skilled, but he didn’t play in college.  In high school he looked like a good shooter, elite finisher, strong defender, and willing passer when needed, but his lack of experience will likely show in defense and shot selection.  He likely would have been one of the top picks in the draft had he waited a year, but it wouldn’t surprise me if there is the fear of what happened in 2018 with Hamidou Diallo:  he would have likely been a first round pick (I was expecting top-15) without playing a game in college, but played his freshman year where he struggled mightily and ended up being drafted 45^th in 2018.  He is athletic enough to get playing time for a rebuilding team and, if the team is patient, I think he will make it since he does seem to have a high basketball IQ for someone his age who didn’t play in college.  Portland is in an interesting situation since they certainly want to win with Damian Lillard, but I think their best bet in getting key players isn’t in the draft given the question marks surrounding the next few picks.  At this point, Sharpe has the highest ceiling in the draft, and they had success with Anfernee Simons and Nassir Little while being patient.

 

7:  Sacramento Kings:  Bennedict Mathurin

Arizona, SG, Sophomore, 20, 6’7, 195 lbs.

Comparison:  More athletic and consistent Jordan Clarkson

Ceiling:  A sidekick All-Star scorer

Floor:  High volume bench scorer

After a freshman year of being an off-ball shooter, Mathurin took on more of an offensive load and thrived.  He averaged 17.7 PPG on 45.0% from the field, 52.1% from 2, 36.9% from 3, 76.4% from the line, and 53.6 eFG%.  While his 3P% dropped from his freshman year (41.8% that season), he still shot well with a heavier scoring load, which is a good sign no matter what his role is.  He is also a freak athlete who should be able to improve his finishing after a few seasons.  The bigger issues I have are his playmaking and his defense.  While he had more assists than turnovers (2.5 to 1.8 per game respectively), he often favored his own shots over the best shots.  I don’t see him ever being a lead playmaker or even in a role on offense like Zach LaVine for the Bulls, but he should be successful if he’s more of a scorer.  As for his defense, I think it’s more a lack of effort than anything else, though he will likely struggle with it for his first few years in the league.  Still, I think he’s efficient and athletic enough to not fall out of the league.  Normally I would say that a poor defensive team like Sacramento should focus on getting some defensive minded players, but they aren’t getting any in the draft who can help as rookies, so they might as well get someone who can shoot and play off the ball, which will make Mathurin a solid fit alongside De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis.

 

8:  New Orleans Pelicans:  Johnny Davis

Wisconsin, SG, Sophomore, 20, 6’5, 196 lbs.

Comparison:  Less athletic early Shaun Livingston if he didn’t give the ball up as much

Ceiling:  An All-Star combo guard

Floor:  A player who coaches get mad at due to shot selection before he falls out of the rotation

If you couldn’t tell by the floor, I’m not the biggest fan of Davis’s game, but we’ll start with the positives.  He is really good with the ball and rarely turns the ball over (2.3 per game, but 10.8 TOV% vs. a 32.5 USG%), which makes me think there is some potential as a point guard.  He is really comfortable in the mid-range and post and looks like he is pretty good in that area.  While he struggled from 3 last year (30.6%), he was a solid free throw shooter on a high number of attempts (79.1% on 6.3 attempts per game), which often translates to better shooting in the NBA (a good example of that is Anthony Edwards).  That said, I thought his shot selection was poor this past year, resulting in an eFG% of just 46.4%.  He also was a poor playmaker, as he had fewer assists than turnovers (just 2.1 per game, with just a 14.8 AST%).  I also question what his defense will be like due to lack of intensity and not being the best athlete, though there were glimpses where he showed he could be okay at defense.  That said, a lot of people are high on him, but I worry due to his high usage despite taking poor shots and passes.  I think New Orleans might view him as an upgrade for the future at point guard over Devonte’ Graham, especially since he never turns the ball over; if he improves his playmaking, which he should be able to with better teammates, he could exceed my expectations (and I hope he does; it’s more fun to watch).

 

9:  San Antonio Spurs:  Jalen Duren

Memphis, C, Freshman, 18, 6’11, 250 lbs.

Comparison:  DeAndre Jordan who thinks he’s more like Robert Williams in terms of passing ability

Ceiling:  Defensive Player of the Year candidate who is an All-Star rim runner

Floor:  A guy who puts up monster blocks and highlights but isn’t a winning player

I get worried when a freak athletic center is a potential top-20 pick because my judgement is a bit clouded with them:  I tend to love all of them.  While this has worked out well for me with Robert Williams (I was cheering when the Celtics drafted him in 2018), it bit me a bit with Mo Bamba (the only player I liked more in the 2018 Draft was Luka Doncic…oops).  I think my judgement is a bit clearer with Duren since he is incredibly raw.  That said, he is an awesome shot blocker (2.1 BPG in 25.3 MPG) and great finisher at the rim (60.0% from 2).  He also is an aggressive rebounder, especially on offense (3.0 ORPG).  He has shown glimpses as a passer and is a decent passer and decision maker outside the perimeter despite being more in the paint, which makes me think there is some Robert Williams potential.  While he has games where he picks up a lot of fouls, he doesn’t pick up a ton for someone as young as he is who goes for blocks (2.7 per game).  That said, as mentioned before, he is incredibly raw and has a long way to go in multiple areas, especially defense.  He currently goes more for blocked shots than making the right play, which is common for young big men.  He also is not a good decision maker as a passer in the post (resulting in 2.2 TOV) and doesn’t project to be a good shooter (62.5% from the line).  That said, a team like the Spurs will have patience with him since Jakob Poeltl has been excellent for them and won’t need him to do a lot on offense given all the guards and wings they have.  I think this is the best bet for Duren to reach his potential.

 

10:  Washington Wizards:  AJ Griffin

Duke, SF, Freshman, 18, 6’6, 222 lbs.

Comparison:  Luke Kennard with Jimmy Butler shot selection inside the arc

Ceiling:  One of the best and most efficient scorers in the league

Floor:  An injury-prone sharpshooter

While many are worried about his injury history, let me preface this by saying this:  after the first few picks, I say that if a player looks like a top talent in the draft but has some injury questions, you might as well take them if they are available since there are so many players in the lottery that won’t make it that getting a couple awesome years from a player is better than what many lottery picks will provide (for instance, I was saying teams should have considered drafting Michael Porter Jr. in 2018 as early as 4^th, though he went 14^th).  As for Griffin, he has one skill that injuries shouldn’t impact:  he might be the best shooter in this draft.  He shot 44.7% from 3 and 79.2% from the line, but also shot 54.7% from 2 while being smart with shot selection and how to pick up fouls or mismatches inside the arc (which is where the Jimmy Butler comparison comes from).  He’s not a bad playmaker for someone who plays mostly off the ball either (while only had 1 APG, but also only had 0.6 TOV and had 7.0 AST% versus 18.8 USG%) and is a competitive player.  I think the biggest concerns with him largely stem from his injury history; he missed almost 2 full seasons of high school due to knee and ankle injuries.  While he played every game in college, teams might shy away from him with those injury issues.  While he won’t be a lead playmaker in the NBA, I think the rest of his weaknesses really stem from a lack of experience, as I think his defense, positioning on both ends, and understanding of utilizing screens will be aided with experience.  Ultimately, if healthy, he should contribute immediately and has a high ceiling, which makes him a nice fit in Washington.  If Bradley Beal is back, Griffin will be a great complementary piece off of him; if Beal leaves, Griffin could be one of their better young players to build around.

 

11:  New York Knicks:  Jeremy Sochan

Baylor, SF/PF, Freshman, 19, 6’9, 230 lbs.

Comparison:  Raw Ben Simmons

Ceiling:  All-Defense Point-Forward

I think people might be scared of comparing anyone to Ben Simmons due to his playoff woes and holdout, but he’s an elite defender and great playmaker, which makes the comparison between him and Sochan perfect.  Sochan looks like he is an NBA ready defender with the potential to any position while driving everyone insane.  He also looks like he will be a good playmaker; while Baylor didn’t use him as a point guard due to a lack of necessity, he averaged 1.8 APG and 12.3 AST%.  He’s also an excellent athlete and a competitive rebounder (6.4 RPG).  Like Simmons, he is also a great finisher at the rim, as he shot 58.5% from 2 (which isn’t too far off from Simmons’ 56.1% in college).  I think the main concern comes from his shooting; while some have said “if he develops a shot”, someone shooting 29.6% from 3 and 58.9% from the line typically suggests that it isn’t worth holding out hope for one to develop.  One thing to like is that Sochan still doesn’t seem to be afraid to shoot, as he attempted 81 3’s, even if it might be detrimental to the team (for reference, Simmons shot 3).  I also think that a lot of people are acting like he is more NBA-ready than he is; while he will have an impact, I think he is still a tiny bit raw in certain situations on both ends and could benefit from coming off the bench for a season or two.  While many say the Knicks need a point guard (they probably do), they’re more likely to find a more guaranteed option in free agency; in this case, Sochan is an aggressive defender who wants to do what’s best for the team.  Does this sound like a Tom Thibodeau type player to you?  Sure does to me.

 

12:  Oklahoma City Thunder:  Dyson Daniels

G-League Ignite, SG/SF, 19, 6’8, 200 lbs.

Comparison:  A more aggressive scoring version of Kyle Anderson

Ceiling:  Starting point guard with great defense

Floor:  Smart backup secondary playmaker with some defensive chops

It’s tough to argue that Daniels was supposed to be the highlight of the G-League Ignite this year, but he looks like he has a good shot of making it in the NBA.  He is 6’8 (after growing 2 inches since joining the G-League) and looks like a polished playmaker already, averaging 4.4 APG while always seemingly making the right pass.  He also is really good at pacing the game and is a decent rebounder (5.9 RPG).  One of his biggest strengths has to be his defense, as he is also incredibly smart at the defensive end as well and also picked up 1.9 SPG.  There are two major weaknesses that could hold him back:  his shooting and athleticism.  He has never been known as a good shooter and only shot 25.5% from 3 (he did shoot 73.7% from the line on just 1.4 attempts per game, so make of that what you will).  I’m not putting money on him developing a jumper, but it’s not impossible.  I think his lack of elite athleticism could set a ceiling on his defense and finishing ability but seeing another smart slower player in Kyle Anderson find a major role in the NBA gives me hope for Daniels.  While Oklahoma City has struggled the last couple years, they appear to be progressing towards being competitive again; while Ivey is an upside pick, Daniels is a player who should be ready to contribute off the bench and get the mindset right as competitor, lead playmaker, and solid defender.

 

13:  Charlotte Hornets:  TyTy Washington

Kentucky, PG, Freshman, 19, 6’3, 197 lbs.

Comparison:  Less athletic Tyrese Maxey

Ceiling:  Potential All-Star point guard

Floor:  15 MPG backup point guard

While Washington had his inconsistencies in his freshman year (which could cause him to fall a bit further than this), there is a lot to like about him.  He is a talented playmaker who is really smart at who to get the ball to and when.  He also is a good decision maker with his own shots and pulling defenders out of position while confusing them.  While a streaky shooter, he’s solid at it, as he shot 35.0% from deep and 75.0% from the line.  The biggest question mark that I have long-term about him is his athleticism; while I’m not too worried about how his athleticism will impact his offense since he doesn’t rely on that as much, I fear that he won’t be a good finisher at the rim or better than okay defender due to not being a great athlete.  He also will likely need to improve his shooting stroke to be more consistent and reliable off the ball.  Still, while I think there will be growing pains at first due to the transition, there should be a role for him in the NBA.  I think Charlotte could use another playmaker so that LaMelo Ball can also operate off the ball.  While Washington isn’t the perfect fit due to him not being the best off-ball player, I think it’s something at least that will give them a more cautious approach on offense to pair with Ball’s more aggressive playmaking.

 

14:  Cleveland Cavaliers:  Ochai Agbaji

Kansas, SG, Senior, 22, 6’5, 210 lbs.

Comparison:  Jae Crowder in an Aaron Afflalo body

Ceiling:  Starting 3-and-D player for a competitive team

Floor:  Bench 3-and-D player for an average team

While names like Crowder and Afflalo are among the least sexy names I have said in comparisons, especially for a player who just won the Final Four Most Outstanding Player, Agbaji is a worthy player to consider who can contribute immediately.  While he was Kansas’s leading scorer, he often played a more off-ball role in the tournament and appeared to be a 3-and-D type player, focusing heavily on playing great defense and drawing good defenders away from the action.  I think Agbaji will play in this kind of role in the NBA (which is why the Crowder comparisons have been made).  He is a talented and smart defender who is smart at where to position himself.  While his shot has been streaky throughout his college career, he shot 40.7% from deep and 74.3% from the line this year (though he did shoot 69.9% from the line for his career).  He is also a smart cutter and has glimpses of being a good finisher (which coupled with the 3 is what reminds me a bit of Afflalo).  He shouldn’t be much of a playmaker in the NBA (he had 209 turnovers to 200 assists, including 80 to 62 last season) and is already 22, but he is a great player for a team looking for any off-ball 3-and-D players ready to contribute.  The Cavs had some issues with depth last year regarding injuries, which Agbaji should be able to help with.  His shooting ability and defensive chops should fit right in with a team that plays hard defense and wouldn’t complain about additional shooting on the wing.

 

 

15:  Charlotte Hornets:  Mark Williams

Duke, C, Sophomore, 20, 7’0, 243 lbs.

Comparison:  Robert Williams

Williams is a shot-blocking (2.8 BPG), strong finishing (72.3 2P%), aggressive big man who also has some potential as a playmaker (0.9 APG compared to 0.9 TOV) and shooter (72.7 FT%).  While there are questions about his upside and switching on defense, Charlotte hasn’t found their center for the future, a role that Williams could fill when paired with an elite playmaker in LaMelo Ball.

 

16:  Atlanta Hawks:  Tari Eason

LSU, PF, Sophomore, 21, 6’8, 215 lbs.

Comparison:  More reckless Miles Bridges

I think Eason could play a role immediately given his defensive intensity (1.9 SPG, 1.1 BPG), improving shooting (35.9% from 3, 80.3% from the line), and ability to finish (56.4% from 2), though he isn’t the best athlete, playmaker (1.0 APG), and often plays recklessly, resulting in turnovers (2.2 per game) and fouls (2.8 per game).  While the Hawks might like a big playmaker to go with Trae Young, Eason might be the best available option as someone who plays hard and provides help at both ends.

 

17:  Houston Rockets:  Malaki Branham

Ohio State, SG, Freshman, 19, 6’5, 180 lbs.

Comparison:  More efficient Caris LeVert

Branham is a solid athlete who is a good shooter (53.0% from 2, 41.6% from 3, 83.3% from the line) and is a solid defender but isn’t that good playmaker (2.0 APG and 1.7 TOV while often focusing on his own shots) and doesn’t have the best shot selection.  I think there will be an adjustment period with him due to his size and shot selection, but Houston wouldn’t rush him at all though he would help them immediately.

 

18:  Chicago Bulls:  Kendall Brown

Baylor, SF/SG, Freshman, 19, 6’8, 205 lbs.

Comparison:  Gerald Green

Brown is a fantastic athlete who should be a highlight reel finisher at points, is a strong finisher (63.8% from 2), and has shown glimpses of passing ability (1.9 APG, 12.3 AST% on 17.1 USG%, though he had 1.7 TOV and 18.2 TOV%).  That said, he doesn’t look like that good of a shooter (34.1% from 3, 68.9% from the line) and often looks disengaged defensively.  He certainly is raw, but he should be able to pester defenses in the paint, something that the Bulls could utilize off the bench.

 

19:  Minnesota Timberwolves:  E.J. Lidell

Ohio State, PF, Junior, 21, 6’7, 240 lbs.

Comparison:  Grant Williams

I don’t expect Lidell will be a star, but he plays hard and is a solid passer (2.5 APG), good shooter (37.4 3P%, 76.5 FT%), smart defender, solid finisher (54.0% from 2), good rebounder (7.9 RPG), and great shot blocker (2.6 BPG).  He reminds me a lot of Grant Williams and I expect he will play a similar role in the NBA, which will make him an incredibly valuable role player with the Timberwolves, especially since he will be able to defend on switches and play off the ball.

 

20:  San Antonio Spurs:  Blake Wesley

Notre Dame, SG, Freshman, 19, 6’5, 185 lbs.

Comparison:  A player with glimpses of Rajon Rondo but a lot of tendencies of Jamal Crawford

Wesley is incredibly raw, but he really is an awesome athlete, has one of the better handles in the draft, seems more than willing to pass the ball (2.4 APG, 17.4 AST%), doesn’t turn the ball over much for someone with the ball in his hand as much as he holds it (2.2 TOV and 13.1 TOV% compared to a 31.3 USG%), and is a good defender.  He is not NBA ready yet, is not a good shooter (30.3 3P%, 65.7 FT%), has pretty poor shot selection, and is inconsistent finishing.  He might drive Gregg Popovich crazy, but the Spurs could likely develop him into the best version of himself.

 

21:  Denver Nuggets:  Nikola Jovic

Mega Basket (Serbia), SG/SF, 19, 6’10, 209 lbs.

Comparison:  Franz Wagner

As perfect as the humor and irony is for this, Jovic is a skilled all-around player, as he has shown a shooting stroke (71.8 FT%, 31.5 3P% but 35.6% in league play), playmaking ability (3.6 APG), and rebounder (4.8 RPG) who is also a really smart offensive player.  He isn’t a good defender yet, is a poor finisher, and has been inconsistent with his shot.  That said, I think Nikola Jokic will get Jovic the ball in the right positions considering how smart they both are and Jovic could allow Jokic to operate more off the ball while allowing Jamal Murray to ease his way back from injury.

 

22:  Memphis Grizzlies:  Jaden Hardy

G-League Ignite, SG, 19, 6’4, 190 lbs.

Comparison:  Shorter Ziaire Williams

Hardy is a good athlete, skilled ballhandler, aggressive player, especially at the offensive end (17.1 FGA, 17.7 PPG), willing passer for a score-first player (3.2 APG), solid rebounder (4.6), and has potential as a shooter though is inconsistent (88.2 FT%).  That said, he is definitely raw, as he is a poor shooter and finisher (35.1 FG%, 26.9 3P%), weak decision maker (3.5 TOV), and inconsistent defender (though he has moments where he tries hard on that end).  While he might be an inconsistent high volume shooter, I felt the same way about Ziaire Williams, who the Grizzlies drafted last year and he was a good fit in Memphis; I think they can develop Hardy in the same way and he would fit so well.

 

23:  Philadelphia 76ers:  MarJon Beauchamp

G-League Ignite, SG/SF, 21, 6’6, 199 lbs.

Comparison:  Matt Barnes

There are a lot of things Beauchamp does well, including rebounding (7.3), defending, operating off the ball, handling, and finishing (57.1 FG%).  He is also an elite athlete who has a really high motor and is really aggressive.  That said, he is not a good shooter (24.2 3P%, 65.0 FT%) and isn’t the best playmaker (2.3 APG vs. 2.3 TOV), though he has potential at that end.  While some might think that Philadelphia needs a shooter, wouldn’t a high-energy guy who can do a lot on both ends and is always aggressive be just the boost a team coming off a disappointing and sluggish playoff needs?

 

24:  Milwaukee Bucks:  Ousmane Dieng

New Zealand Breakers (New Zealand), SF, 19, 6’10, 200 lbs.

Comparison:  Somewhere between raw Josh Giddy and very early Giannis Antetokounmpo

While raw, there is a lot of potential to be excited about with Dieng.  He is a bigger player who is a great ball handler already and has shown glimpses of playmaking, passing, rebounding, and defending.  That said, he is a poor shooter (27.1 3P%, 66.7 FT%), inconsistent finisher (39.8 FG%), and poor decision maker on both ends.  He is a really good athlete who can definitely improve.  While the Bucks are an intriguing destination given they are contending, I think he will be able to improve in the regular season given how smart of a player he is despite being raw, making him a nice bench playmaker in the playoffs.

 

25:  San Antonio Spurs:  Kennedy Chandler

Tennessee, PG, Freshman, 19, 6’0, 172 lbs.

Comparison:  Smaller De’Aaron Fox

Chandler is an interesting prospect since he is really fast, a great ball handler, a good playmaker (4.7 APG vs. 2.5 TOV), a good finisher for his size (50.4% from 2), shot well from 3 (38.3 3P%), smart off the ball (especially at cutting), and plays really hard at defense.  That said, the two things to note are the fact that he is smaller, which will limit his defensive upside, and whether his shooting is legit (he only shot 60.6% from the line, which is often a better indictor; for example, Markelle Fultz shot over 40% in college but shot less than 70% from the line).  While the Spurs have multiple guards, Chandler is a good enough player off the ball and will be able to take the ball up in transition so the fit could work.

 

26:  Dallas Mavericks:  Walker Kessler

Auburn, C, Sophomore, 20, 7’1, 245 lbs.

Comparison:  Jakob Poeltl

Kessler is a great player in the paint on both ends, as he is an elite shot blocker (4.6), finisher (70.2 2P%), rebounder (8.1), and an improving passer out of the paint.  He also is a good screener who plays hard at both ends.  Two major limitations for him are his athleticism, which will likely prevent him defending outside the paint or crafty freak athletes, and he cannot shoot (20.0 3P%, 59.6 FT%).  While I don’t love the fit with the Mavericks due to his weaknesses, I think his shot blocking will help defensively and his ability to screen and finish will make him fit enough with Luka Doncic.

 

27:  Miami Heat:  Wendell Moore

Duke, SF, Junior, 20, 6’5, 216 lbs.

Comparison:  Josh Hart

I expect Moore will be a role player with the potential to do a bit of everything.  He is an awesome playmaker (4.4 APG vs. 1.9 TOV), great shooter (41.3 3P%, 80.5 FT%), versatile defender, good rebounder (5.3 RPG), smart player, and always plays hard.  The biggest questions I have about him stem from him not being an elite defender and him taking until his junior year before he was a consistent college player.  That said, at best he will be a high-motor role player who can do a lot which will fit in with the Heat and at worst he takes a couple years to figure it out on one of the deepest teams.

 

28:  Golden State Warriors:  Bryce McGowen

Nebraska, SG, Freshman, 19, 6’7, 190 lbs.

Comparison:  Moses Moody with more athleticism and less of a jumper

McGowen is a high-upside type player because he is a great athlete, shot well from free throws (83.1 FT% on 6.3 attempts), suggesting his jumper might be better than it looked in college, is a solid rebounder (5.2), and has a nice handle.  He has a lower floor due to his low shooting percentage (27.4 3P%, though the free throws might be a better indicator long-term), inconsistent finishing ability (47.8 2P%), lack of playmaking ability (1.4 APG and 2.1 TOV with an 8.6 AST% compared to 27.2 USG%), and poor defender.  While raw, he does remind me of how I felt with Jonathan Kuminga, who played well for Golden State as a rookie; I think it might be worth a shot to select him.

 

29:  Memphis Grizzlies:  Patrick Baldwin

Milwaukee, SF/PF, Freshman, 19, 6’9, 220 lbs.

Comparison:  Inconsistent Jabari Parker

Baldwin looked like a potential top-5 pick prior to entering college, but struggled mightily at college, causing a massive slip.  That said, he has nice size, was aggressive with his shot and was a solid free throw shooter (74.3%), suggesting his poor shooting might be a bit fluky, especially considering he has nice form.  That said, he struggled from 3 (26.6%), couldn’t finish (41.8 2P%), was a poor defender, doesn’t look like an elite athlete, was a horrible decision maker, and dealt with a recurring ankle injury limiting him to just 12 games.  Memphis is deep and has the ability to take a chance on a player like Baldwin; at best he’s an All-Star, and at worst a risk with the 29^th pick didn’t pan out.

 

30:  Oklahoma City Thunder:  Jean Montero

Overtime Elite, PG, 18, 6’3, 175 lbs.

Comparison:  Dennis Schröder

Montero is an interesting player since he played well in Overtime Elite offensively, but that was against players he should be dominating.  In Europe, he showed glimpses of a jumper (84.0 FT% in 2020-21, 37.7 3P% in 2019-20), playmaking (3.5 APG 2020-21), rebounding (4.5 RPG 2020-21), ball handling, and some athleticism.  I question how he will be as a defender or finisher, which will result in some early struggles, in addition to how raw he is.  Even though the Thunder already have multiple guards, Montero’s upside might make him worth a look as a potential point guard off the bench for them, especially if he reaches whatever his ceiling could be.

 

 

31:  Indiana Pacers:  Trevor Keels

Duke, SG, Freshman, 18, 6’4, 221 lbs.

Keels is an awesome playmaker and defender who plays hard, but there will be questions about his athletic ability and shooting.

 

32:  Orlando Magic:  Christian Koloko

Arizona, C, Junior, 22, 7’1, 225 lbs.

Koloko is raw, but is an awesome shot blocker, finisher, rebounder, and athlete who improved as a free throw shooter as well.

 

33:  Toronto Raptors:  Christian Braun

Kansas, SG, Junior, 21, 6’6, 205 lbs.

Braun should contribute in many ways, as he can shoot, pass, defend, and rebound, and will always play hard, though I expect his role will be limited to being a bench player.

 

34:  Oklahoma City Thunder:  Ismael Kamagate

Paris Basketball (France), C, 21, 6’11, 220 lbs.

Kamagate looks like he could be an excellent paint defender and finisher at the rim, though he will probably be a poor shooter.

 

35:  Orlando Magic:  Max Christie

Michigan State, SG, Freshman, 19, 6’6, 190 lbs.

Christie is an exceptional athlete with high potential and a nice free throw touch, but he had a rough freshman year in scoring, playmaking, and defending, suggesting a low floor.

 

36:  Portland Trail Blazers:  JD Davison

Alabama, PG, Freshman, 19, 6’3, 195 lbs.

Davison looks like an awesome athlete, playmaker, and finisher, but he struggled with his shot and with his defense as a freshman and looks pretty raw.

 

37:  Sacramento Kings:  Justin Lewis

Marquette, SF/PF, Sophomore, 20, 6’7, 235 lbs.

Lewis appears to be improving in several aspects, including shooting and defense, though he doesn’t project to be a good playmaker and has struggled finishing.

 

38:  San Antonio Spurs:  Josh Minott

Memphis, SG/SF, Freshman, 19, 6’8, 205 lbs.

Minott is a good athlete with ability finishing and defending, though is raw, an inconsistent shooter, and is often reckless on both ends, resulting in him barely playing as a freshman.

 

39:  Cleveland Cavaliers:  Jake LaRavia

Wake Forest, SF/PF, Junior, 20, 6’9, 228 lbs.

LaRavia is an awesome playmaker and should be a good defender and shooter, though he’s not a particularly good athlete or ball handler.

 

40:  Minnesota Timberwolves:  David Roddy

Colorado State, SF, Junior, 21, 6’5, 252 lbs.

Roddy is a good shot creator, passer, and defender, but there are questions about his streaky shooting, athleticism, and body type.

 

41:  New Orleans Pelicans:  Terquavion Smith

North Carolina State, SG, Freshman, 19, 6’4, 160 lbs.

Smith is an exceptional athlete with some shooting and defensive abilities, but he is skinny and an inconsistent finisher and scorer at this point.

 

42:  New York Knicks:  Hugo Besson

New Zealand Breakers (New Zealand), PG/SG, 21, 6’4, 196 lbs.

Besson is an awesome passer and playmaker with a nice free throw touch, though he is a streaky shooter and finisher and poor defender.

 

43:  Los Angeles Clippers:  Alondes Williams

Wake Forest, SG/PG, Redshirt Senior, 23, 6’5, 201 lbs.

Williams is a polished playmaker, great finisher, hard-nosed defender, and is incredibly strong, though he is older, turns the ball over often, isn’t an elite athlete, and does not project to be a good shooter.

 

44:  Atlanta Hawks:  Keon Ellis

Alabama, SG, Senior, 22, 6’6, 170 lbs.

Ellis is a good shooter, great athlete, and smart player off the ball, though he isn’t the best defender, is skinny, and will likely be someone you don’t want with the ball in their hands.

 

45:  Charlotte Hornets:  Julian Champagnie

St. John’s, SG/SF, Junior, 20, 6’8, 220 lbs.

Champagnie is a great defender, solid (but streaky) shooter, and plays hard, but he is limited on the ball, isn’t the best athlete, and is not a good playmaker.

 

46:  Detroit Pistons:  Leonard Miller

Fort Erie International Academy (Canada), SF, High School Senior, 18, 6’10, Unlisted weight

Miller is the mystery man out of high school in Canada and is an awesome athlete with potential as a ball handler, but teams will really be able to get a better idea of where he is at the Combine.

 

47:  Cleveland Cavaliers:  Ryan Rollins

Toledo, PG/SG, Sophomore, 20, 6’4, 180 lbs.

Rollins looks like a solid point guard, defender, and shooter, though he isn’t the best athlete and might face an adjustment period going from Toledo to the NBA.

 

48:  Minnesota Timberwolves:  Jaylin Williams

Arkansas, PF/C, Sophomore, 20, 6’10, 245 lbs.

Williams is a good athlete who will likely do a lot of the dirty work on defense, the boards, finishing, and off-ball, though he isn’t the best shooter and is still developing a bit.

 

49:  Sacramento Kings:  Harrison Ingram

Stanford, SF, Freshman, 19, 6’8, 230 lbs.

He looks to be a good playmaking forward and good rebounder, though he struggles shooting and finishing and is incredibly raw.

 

50:  Minnesota Timberwolves:  Yannick Nzosa

Unicaja (Spain), Center, 18, 7’0, 174 lbs.

Nzosa is incredibly raw and hasn’t played much, but he is young with an amazing athleticism, so he might be an interesting draft-and-stash player.

 

51:  Golden State Warriors:  Peyton Watson

UCLA, SF, Freshman, 19, 6’8, 200 lbs.

Watson had a horrible freshman year at UCLA and looks like he is incredibly raw, but he is an amazing athlete who was a top recruit prior to the year.

 

52:  New Orleans Pelicans:  Jalen Williams

Santa Clara, SG/SF, Junior, 21, 6’6, 190 lbs. (not to be confused with Jaylin Williams from Arkansas)

Williams is an awesome shooter and playmaker with some nice defensive potential and ball handling ability, but his lack of athleticism could be a hindrance to his potential.

 

53:  Boston Celtics:  Jabari Walker

Colorado, SF/PF, Sophomore, 19, 6’8, 200 lbs.

Walker is a solid player with a good jumper and is a decent defender, but he isn’t the best athlete or playmaker.

 

54:  Washington Wizards:  Dalen Terry

Arizona, SG, Sophomore, 6’7, 195 lbs.

Terry plays hard at both ends and looks like a good defender and finisher, but doesn’t always seem confident in his shot and is often reckless.

 

55:  Golden State Warriors:  Andrew Nembhard

Gonzaga, PG/SG, Senior, 22, 6’5, 193 lbs.

Nembhard is a skilled point guard and smart player on both ends, though he is a streaky shooter and not that good of an athlete, both of which could limit his ceiling.

 

56:  Cleveland Cavaliers:  Khalifa Diop

Herbalife Gran Canaria (Spain), C, 20, 6’11, 231 lbs.

Diop is raw and cannot shoot, but there is some upside as a defender, rebounder, and finisher.

 

57:  Portland Trail Blazers:  Trevion Williams

Purdue, PF/C, Senior, 21, 6’10, 265 lbs.

Williams is a decent finisher, rebounder, and defender, but will likely struggle on switches and is not someone I expect to be a shooter.

 

58:  Indiana Pacers:  Michael Foster

G-League Ignite, PF, 19, 6’8, 250 lbs.

Foster has shown potential as a finisher, shot blocker, rebounder, and playmaker, but he is incredibly raw and often seems to play for his stats rather than the better of the team.

 

Who excites you in the draft so far?  Any picks you disagree with?  Let me know in the comments!