NBA Mock Draft 2022: Final predictions based on intel, rumors, odds

2022-06-25 09:14:50 By : Ms. Anne zhao

The 2022 NBA Draft, at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, is just days away. But before that, we have one final mock draft to offer our latest predictions.

Now that the list of invitations for prospects to attend the draft in person has been finalized, players are wrapping up any last-minute pre-draft workouts. The last step of the process, hearing each name called on draft night, is now right around the corner.

Before everything unfolds, we wanted to check the temperature one more time to give you the latest breaking news and draft projections for each of the 58 picks in the 2022 NBA Draft.

Since our last update, multiple first-round picks were traded and promising Canadian prospect Leonard Miller decided to withdraw from this draft class to instead play for the G League Ignite next season.

In addition to this mock draft, check out our latest interviews with more than a dozen of the most interesting prospects in this class.

Holmgren became the latest prospect to meet with the Magic ahead of the NBA draft next week. https://t.co/rBuY0961P8

— Rookie Wire (@RookieWire) June 19, 2022

Gonzaga Bulldogs: Big, Freshman, 7-1

I’d still consider Auburn’s Jabari Smith the favorite to hear his name called with the first overall pick with Holmgren in Oklahoma City. But while virtually every other mock draft has the Magic selecting Smith, I still believe there is a chance Orlando selects Gonzaga’s Chet Holmgren. Per Rookie Wire’s Cody Taylor, Holmgren recently met with the Magic front office, and Orlando reportedly has a “soft spot” for Holmgren.

I asked Jabari Smith Jr. his thoughts on meeting Thunder GM Sam Presti:

— Clemente Almanza (@CAlmanza1007) June 18, 2022

Auburn Tigers: Wing, Freshman, 6-10

As the favorite to go No. 1 overall, Smith said he only worked out for two teams during the pre-draft process: the Magic and the Thunder. But the fact he was even willing to consider meeting with Oklahoma City suggests the possibility he isn’t an absolute lock to get selected with the top pick. However, it’s unlikely that two teams pass up on a chance to draft the 6-foot-10 floor spacer, who is widely seen as the top prospect in the class.

I asked Duke forward and potential top-five NBA Draft prospect Paolo Banchero about the possibility of teaming up with Kevin Porter Jr. and Jalen Green: “Those are two extremely skilled, extremely talented players. If they add me it would elevate them more and elevate myself.” pic.twitter.com/Rdtlbro9rF

Duke Blue Devils: Wing, Freshman, 6-10

Duke’s Paolo Banchero was recently asked about his potential fit in Houston (via Rockets Wire):

“Those are two extremely skilled, extremely talented players … Both I’ve known for a while. Kevin [Porter Jr.], being from the same city [Seattle]. Jalen [Green], just knowing him since early high school, going to camps and stuff. It would be fun. Those guys are both unselfish, both seem like they want to win.”

It’s likely no coincidence that the Rockets traded Christian Wood, who plays the same position as the former Duke star, right after hosting Banchero for a workout and dinner.

For more on Houston’s options in the draft, you can listen to my recent podcast appearance with Rockets Wire editor Ben DuBose.

I caught up with Keegan Murray, one of the top prospects in the 2022 NBA Draft. Murray is the only college basketball player on record to make at least 60 dunks and 3-pointers in the same season. 🤯🤯🤯

FULL INTERVIEW: https://t.co/UUTLEu3NwK@keegan3murray | @IowaHoops pic.twitter.com/4KadZ0WxbU

— Bryan Kalbrosky (@BryanKalbrosky) June 7, 2022

Iowa Hawkeyes: Big, Sophomore, 6-8

This is the highest pick that could be traded on draft night, per HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto. If that happens, I’d expect Purdue’s Jaden Ivey as the inevitable target. But if the pick isn’t traded, I don’t think Ivey (who reportedly hasn’t even worked out for the organization) fits in the backcourt alongside De’Aaron Fox and Davion Mitchell.

Instead, according to ESPN’s Jonathan Givony, Iowa’s Keegan Murray is reportedly “gaining steam” with new Sacramento coach Mike Brown and Kings owner Vivek Ranadive. Plus, according to Yahoo’s Chris Haynes, the team organized for him to have dinner with Fox and Domantas Sabonis.

I’d love to see Murray play alongside the speedy Fox in transition. When he spoke to For The Win, here is what he said about playing in the open court:

“I tried to be the first one down the floor at all points. It didn’t matter if I started under the basket on defense. I just wanted to be the first one down the court. That led to a lot of open layups and a lot of easy dunks and transition opportunities for not only myself but my teammates. I feel like I’m at my best in transition when I’m in the open floor and making decisions.”

Meanwhile, Sacramento executive Monte McNair is a big analytics guy, and Murray is someone who dominates the advanced stats.

© Jenna Watson/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK

Purdue Boilermakers: Guard, Sophomore, 6-4

Last season, the Pistons were reportedly enamored with the “outstanding workout” they saw from Jalen Green before the draft. Ivey is the closest thing to Green this season.

Detroit recently hosted Ivey for a solo workout, and it was one of two workouts Ivey had before the draft. As a prospect who is arguably the best athlete in this class, if he is still available when Detroit is on the clock, this pick feels like a no-brainer.

Ivey, who is more of a go-to scoring threat than a passer, would greatly benefit from playing alongside a top playmaker like Cade Cunningham (who they ultimately picked at No. 1 last year instead of Green.)

Dyson Daniels is gaining a lot of steam to being selected by the Pacers at No. 6, per @TheAthletic’s @bkravitz:

“I was told Dyson Daniels had one of the greatest workouts a lot of people in the Indiana organization have ever seen.” pic.twitter.com/0lOgqvBEnZ

— Evan Sidery (@esidery) June 21, 2022

G League Ignite: Guard, G League, 6-6

With the Pacers expected to focus on their young core, I’d love a backcourt featuring Tyrese Haliburton and Australia’s Dyson Daniels.

They would have excellent length at the guard position, and Daniels is a fan of the fit as well (via Indy Star):

“I’m confident in my shot now, so I feel like playing here with a guy like Tyrese, who’s a very good passer as well, I can play off the ball, cut to spots and knock down the shot. That’s something that’s come a long way in my game, and it’s definitely something I’ve worked on because every team usually has a primary ball-handler.”

Daniels, who has compared himself to Haliburton, had one of the most impressive performances on the Pro Day circuit at the NBA Draft Combine.

Arizona Wildcats: Wing, Sophomore, 6-6

The Trail Blazers are widely expected to trade this pick for a win-now player. If they cannot find what they’re looking for, however, Bennedict Mathurin is a name to watch.  The standout sophomore, who is a promising product of the NBA Academy system, plays a pro-style game on the perimeter. He may also be of particular interest to new Portland assistant general manager Mike Schmitz, the former ESPN draft analyst who also went to Arizona.

(Photo by Chris Hyde/Getty Images)

SKYCITY New Zealand Breakers: Wing, International, 6-9

As his season with the New Zealand Breakers progressed, France’s Ousmane Dieng showed exponential improvement on the floor. Dieng reportedly had an outstanding workout with the Pelicans, per ESPN, and he could be their pick at No. 8 overall.

With his length and ability on the ball, Dieng should also spark some intrigue from New Orleans. When he spoke to For The Win, he mentioned Pelicans’ Brandon Ingram as one of his favorite players.

Based on their similar builds and skill set, Ingram would be a great person to have in the building during Dieng’s developmental process.

(AP Photo/Karen Pulfer Focht)

Memphis Tigers: Big, Freshman, 6-10

The Spurs are expected to draft a big man, and while I don’t think they’re going to select for positional need, Jalen Duren would be arguably the best player available. He projects as one of the top rim protectors in this class, and his size will translate to the next level.

However, don’t be surprised if this is a pick that is traded. San Antonio will not have room on their roster for as many rookies as they have draft picks. Of their picks, this is the one where they could extract the most value.

"I only get to go through this once in my entire life, my entire career."

📽️ Johnny Davis from @BadgerMBB visited us for a pre-draft workout earlier today. pic.twitter.com/znazTYUpiA

— Washington Wizards (@WashWizards) June 3, 2022

Wisconsin Badgers: Guard, Sophomore, 6-5

As the Wizards look to improve their backcourt, I’d expect them to take Wisconsin’s Johnny Davis into serious consideration. Washington recently hosted Davis for a solo pre-draft workout, and he could provide a helpful boost to their depth at the guard position. Davis, who was one of the best players in college basketball last season, could be a long-term starter and high-impact player within his role on both sides of the ball in the NBA.

AJ Griffin on playing for the #Knicks: "It would be really, really good. I know it would be exciting."

— Zach Braziller (@NYPost_Brazille) June 20, 2022

Duke Blue Devils: Wing, Freshman, 6-8

If they don’t end up trading up to draft Ivey, I could imagine the Knicks targeting Duke’s AJ Griffin, who recently had a solo workout with the organization.

He was a high school standout near New York City and his father, Adrian Griffin Sr., was an assistant for Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau on the Bulls. Also, his agents long worked alongside Knicks president Leon Rose at CAA. He recently told reporters it would be “really, really good” and a “dream come true” to play for the Knicks. He also thinks he would have a good connection with fellow former Duke star RJ Barrett.

Baylor Bears: Wing, Freshman, 6-8

When I interviewed Baylor’s Jeremy Sochan, and he gave answers like this, I couldn’t help but think of just how much Oklahoma City Thunder GM Sam Presti would love him:

“I feel like I’ll be able to impact the game defensively straightaway. You can tell that these games, during these playoffs especially, have been really physical. It’s been the little things that change the games and make other players better. I want to be that guy who is going to be irritating, going to be a defender. I have a personality. I’m always going to bring positive energy to the organization and the people of that city. I’m going to be there for them, and for my teammates. I’m going to get better every day.”

I’d expect the Thunder to seriously consider Sochan if they keep their pick. But it’s possible he won’t be available. I could see a team selecting higher with a need for defense, like Portland, taking him as early as No. 7 overall.

Kentucky Wildcats: Wing, Freshman, 6-5

Although this pick is much lower than many others have Shaedon Sharpe projected, I do think it’s still a good landing spot for the former top overall recruit. His jaw-dropping athleticism alone makes him unlikely to fall out of the lottery, and at a certain point, he will be the best player available.

Malaki Branham had a big smile on his face talking about his #Cavs workout and talked about how the staff doesn't have an issue about throwing young guys into the fire right away.

— Spencer Davies (@SpinDavies) June 16, 2022

Ohio State Buckeyes: Wing, Freshman, 6-5

Ohio State’s Malaki Branham was an excellent three-level scorer during his sole collegiate campaign in the Big 10. For a team that has an excellent foundation in the frontcourt with Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen manning the middle, and Darius Garland as a high-impact floor general, Branham could stay local while giving the Cavs some long-term scoring help on the wing.

Duke's Mark Williams had a solo workout with the Charlotte Hornets, owned by UNC alum Michael Jordan. With a smile, he said:

"They have Carolina guys throughout the organization … If I were to be there, the Duke-Carolina beef would always be there."https://t.co/eEnusD2ALI pic.twitter.com/DZDcbg6yeu

— Bryan Kalbrosky (@BryanKalbrosky) June 20, 2022

Duke Blue Devils: Big, Sophomore, 7-0

I recently wrote about why standout big man Mark Williams is such an interesting fit for the Hornets. There was originally some doubt that Michael Jordan would draft someone from Duke. But there are just as many examples of the Hornets owner drafting Blue Devils as there are of him picking prospects from his alma mater, UNC.

LSU Tigers: Wing, Sophomore, 6-8

LSU’s Tari Eason had an early pre-draft workout with the Hawks, and for me, this is one of the most logical fits in the draft. Atlanta’s defense needs a lot of work, and Eason was one of the most productive defensive playmakers in all of college basketball. He wreaks havoc on the defensive end of the floor, and that’s going to help him stay on the floor in the NBA.

Marjon Beauchamp says he worked out for the #Rockets: "It was good. I definitely feel I can fit there at a wing position, a three. I'm pretty familiar with Jalen Green, Kevin Porter, Josh Christopher." He feels like he can be a defensive spark in Houston. pic.twitter.com/2KKRQ6kQKd

G League Ignite: Wing, G League, 6-7

After doing well while playing for the G League Ignite, MarJon Beauchamp is now firmly on the radar as a projected first-round pick in the NBA Draft. Beauchamp recently spoke about the potential defensive impact he could make on the Rockets, and he also touched on the way he would fit in Houston’s offense. Beauchamp would slot in well on the perimeter for the Rockets.

Kansas Jayhawks: Wing, Senior, 6-5

After winning a national title, Kansas wing Ochai Agbaji is one of the only upperclassmen I have with a first-round grade in this mock draft. While I have always loved his athleticism, he took a huge step forward with his on-ball skills and his shooting on all three levels in 2021-22.

He’ll get looks in the lottery, and while I’m not quite there with him yet, I do think the Bulls would be a good fit as a plug-and-play option due to his rim pressure and shooting volume.

(Photo by Joe Buglewicz/Getty Images)

Santa Clara Broncos: Wing, Junior, 6-6

No one did more to improve their draft stock during the pre-draft process than Santa Clara’s Jalen Williams. There are valid concerns about some of his statistical shortcomings while in college, and it’s fair to raise your eyebrows about late stock risers.

Williams, however, had an other-worldly performance at the NBA Draft Combine. With his wingspan and vertical pop, any teams that thought they could get him as a second-round sleeper are now out of luck.

Williams is now a projected top-20 pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, and if you told me he heard his name called in the lottery, I wouldn’t be surprised.

The San Antonio Spurs will host Jake LaRavia for a pre-draft workout, per source. The 20-year-old Wake Forest star is a 6-foot-8 combo forward who averaged 14.6 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game.

Spurs are on the clock at 9, 20, 25, and 38. Interesting fit for both. pic.twitter.com/jr3UKtpmKL

— Bryan Kalbrosky (@BryanKalbrosky) June 8, 2022

Wake Forest Demon Deacons: Wing, Junior, 6-9

Jake LaRavial, 20, is one of my favorite do-it-all prospects in this draft class, an ideal modern-day four.

After performing well during his athletic testing at the NBA Draft Combine, the 6-foot-8 prospect decided to opt-out of the 5-on-5 scrimmages because he was reportedly comfortable with his projected range on draft night.

The Spurs recently hosted LaRavia for a pre-draft workout. LaRavia is the type of player who would do very well in San Antonio’s development system. Here is what he told For The Win:

“I’m a coach’s player. If the coach tells me what to do, I’ll do it. You can place me anywhere on the court and I’ll defend. I’m the type of player who can rebound the ball and push it in transition or whatever you need me to do. When it comes to court vision and IQ, it’s all there. I’m an all-around, do-it-all type of player.”

For what it is worth, the last time the Spurs used a first-round pick on an upperclassman from Wake Forest, it turned out well.

Yep, you read his name right. Read up on Nikola Jović from Serbia ⤵️@jovic_5 | @KKMegaBasket | @WesternUnion

— Denver Nuggets (@nuggets) June 13, 2022

Mega Basket: Wing, International, 6-10

I promise this pick has little to do with the fact that Serbia’s Nikola Jovic has a name that is shockingly similar to that of Denver superstar Nikola Jokic.

Jovic was recently named the Adriatic League Top Prospect. The 6-foot-10 wing just recently turned 19 years old and is a noteworthy dribble-pass-shoot wing who measured with a 7-foot wingspan at the NBA Draft Combine.

Arizona Wildcats: Guard, Sophomore, 6-7

Arizona’s Dalen Terry is “rumored as a potential target” for the Memphis Grizzlies, according to SI’s Jeremy Woo, and it’s easy to see why. Here is what he told me when he caught up with For The Win:

“I just want to gain respect. I want these guys to know who I am. Whatever happens with my career, they’re going to know they’re going to respect me. I just want to gain the respect of the guys … I want it to be clear when I come in the door, I have my presence made. I want guys to fear me. But I always want guys to love to play with me.”

Terry, who is celebrated for his “infectious personality” and his impact on winning, would be a delightful fit on the young and emerging Grizzlies. He is a productive playmaker who plays hard on both sides of the ball, and at 6-foot-7, he has great size for his position.

Kentucky Wildcats: Guard, Freshman, 6-3

I’ve long enjoyed imagining the fit of Kentucky’s TyTy Washington on the Philadelphia 76ers. After the success they have had with former Kentucky standout Tyrese Maxey, I think they would be willing to take a similar gamble here. Washington would be a solid value this late in the first round.

(Victor Joly/Abaca/Sipa USA)

Paris Basketball: Big, International, 6-11

Milwaukee needs some youth in their frontcourt, especially with Brook Lopez and Serge Ibaka getting older.

While one player often mocked to the Bucks is Auburn big man Walker Kessler, the front office would be very wise to consider France’s Ismael Kamagate. He is one of the top international prospects in the class and he was incredibly efficient, especially when rolling to the basket, this season.

(Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)

Gonzaga Bulldogs: Guard, Senior, 6-5

For reasons I outlined earlier this offseason, Gonzaga’s Andrew Nembhard is one of the most underrated prospects in this draft class. While the Spurs are unlikely to use all three of their first-round draft picks and may trade out of the position, due to his high feel for the game and his overall productivity, Nembhard is someone they would consider if they hold on to this pick.

Tennessee Volunteers: Guard, Freshman, 6-1

Houston is unlikely to use all three of its draft picks in the first round, and may use this pick to trade up or out.

But if the Rockets are looking for depth in their backcourt, and they hold on to their pick in this range, Tennessee’s Kennedy Chandler would be someone they’d seriously consider.

Chandler, who had 19 points and 9 assists during his final collegiate game, shoots well off the catch and looks comfortable as the ball handler in the pick and roll.

Notre Dame Fighting Irish: Guard, Freshman, 6-5

Notre Dame’s Blake Welsey is an exciting young player who would do well in Miami’s developmental system. He has shown some flashes that leave scouts enamored, and at only 19 years old, he projects well as someone who is still improving his game on both ends of the floor.

Ohio State Buckeyes: Big, Junior, 6-7

I believe Ohio State’s EJ Liddell is one of the more NBA-ready prospects in this class, and I really like the idea of him playing for a winning organization like the Warriors. Liddell has a game well-suited to translate to the next level, and even though he isn’t necessarily a lottery-level talent, he would be a good pick later in the first round.

I caught up with Arkansas big man Jaylin Williams, who has advanced playmaking for his position. Williams, who took charges more often than any other prospect, had an elite impact on winning in college.

FULL INTERVIEW: https://t.co/qK4KEBvMzf | @Jay_MWilliams_ @RazorbackMBB pic.twitter.com/lhuI3BzAH6

— Bryan Kalbrosky (@BryanKalbrosky) June 15, 2022

Arkansas Razorbacks: Big, Sophomore, 6-10

Over the past few years, the Grizzlies have done an excellent job identifying prospects outside the lottery (e.g. Brandon Clarke, Dillon Brooks, Desmond Bane, John Konchar) who manage to find their way into a rotation. One of my bets for this year, who fits a similar profile, is Arkansas big man Jaylin Williams.

After playing well against Gonzaga while defending Chet Holmgren during the tournament, Williams should warrant consideration in the first round of the 2022 NBA Draft.

For more on his game, read our recent pre-draft interview with Williams.

David Roddy is a fascinating pre-draft evaluation.

He is a triple threat in the pick-and-roll who can score as the ball-handler, rolling to the rim, or lifting to the perimeter. How will it translate to the NBA?

FULL INTERVIEW: https://t.co/VN9nWyHHug @droddy22 @CSUMBasketball pic.twitter.com/hbYoFq9BOR

— Bryan Kalbrosky (@BryanKalbrosky) May 26, 2022

Colorado State Rams: Wing, Junior, 6-5

The Nuggets recently traded for this pick, and I wouldn’t be surprised if they had Colorado State’s David Roddy in mind when they made the move. Calvin Booth, who recently took over basketball operations for Denver, has spoken glowingly about Roddy (via Harrison Wind):

“We’ve watched him several times. He’s a fantastic player…there’s not much he can’t do on the basketball court.”

For more on his game, read our recent pre-draft interview with Roddy.

31. Indiana Pacers: Gabriele Procida (Fortitudo Bologna: Wing, International, 6-7)

32. Orlando Magic: Justin Lewis (Marquette Golden Eagles: Big, Sophomore, 6-7)

33. Toronto Raptors: Caleb Houstan (Michigan Wolverines: Wing, Freshman, 6-8)

34. Oklahoma City Thunder: Jaden Hardy (G League Ignite: Guard, G League, 6-4)

35. Orlando Magic: Peyton Watson (UCLA Bruins: Wing, Freshman, 6-9)

36. Portland Trail Blazers: John Butler (Florida State Seminoles: Big, Freshman, 7-1)

37. Sacramento Kings: Ryan Rollins (Toledo Rockets: Guard, Sophomore, 6-4)

38. San Antonio Spurs: Max Christie (Michigan State Spartans: Wing, Freshman, 6-6)

39. Cleveland Cavaliers: Kendall Brown (Baylor Bears: Wing, Freshman, 6-8)

40. Minnesota Timberwolves: Christian Braun (Kansas Jayhawks: Wing, Junior, 6-6)

41. New Orleans Pelicans: JD Davison (Alabama Crimson Tide: Guard, Freshman, 6-3)

42. New York Knicks: Josh Minott (Memphis Tigers: Wing, Freshman, 6-8)

43. L.A. Clippers: Patrick Baldwin (Wisconsin-(Milwaukee) Panthers: Wing, Freshman, 6-10)

44. Atlanta Hawks: Wendell Moore (Duke Blue Devils: Wing, Junior, 6-5)

45. Charlotte Hornets: Christian Koloko (Arizona Wildcats: Big, Junior, 7-1)

46. Detroit Pistons: Dereon Seabron (North Carolina State Wolfpack: Wing, Sophomore, 6-7)

47. Memphis Grizzlies: Tevin Brown (Murray State Racers: Guard, Senior, 6-5)

48. Minnesota Timberwolves: Walker Kessler (Auburn Tigers: Big, Sophomore, 7-1)

49. Sacramento Kings: Yannick Nzosa (Unicaja Malaga: Big, International, 6-11)

50. Minnesota Timberwolves: Bryce McGowens (Nebraska Cornhuskers: Wing, Freshman, 6-6)

51. Golden State Warriors: Orlando Robinson (Fresno State Bulldogs: Big, Junior, 7-0)

52. New Orleans Pelicans: Trevor Keels (Duke Blue Devils: Wing, Freshman, 6-5)

53. Boston Celtics: Ron Harper Jr. (Rutgers Scarlet Knights: Wing, Senior, 6-6)

54. Washington Wizards: Vince Williams Jr. (Virginia Commonwealth Rams: Wing, Senior, 6-6)

55. Golden State Warriors: Julian Champagnie (St. John’s Red Storm: Wing, Junior, 6-7)

56. Cleveland Cavaliers: Jean Montero (Elite: Guard, Overtime, 6-2)

57. Portland Trail Blazers: Jamaree Bouyea (San Francisco Dons: Guard, Senior, 6-2)

58. Indiana Pacers: Dominick Barlow (Elite: Big, Overtime, 6-9)

Sign up for the For The Win newsletter to get our top stories in your inbox every morning

The order might not be what you expect after No. 1.

These teams could make the postseason leap.

“Even though you’re a Dukie, I take pride in that we did draft you.”

© Copyright For The Win 2022

Powered by WordPress.com VIP

Please enter an email address.

Please check your email for a confirmation.