Cavs: Crafting a custom 2022 NBA Draft Big Board

Cavaliers 2022 NBA Draft Big Board: Tier One

1. Paolo Banchero, F/PF, Duke

Banchero will undoubtedly be the centerpiece to Dukes’ team this year. There are no real knocks on him, as his game is incredibly well-rounded. He’s more than capable of being physical in the post, but also has a jumper that is silky smooth. Over the past two years, he’s put some muscle on his lean frame, and he’s become a mismatch for defenses. He’s big enough and strong enough to battle with the big boys down low, but he can also use finesse around the basket when need be.

Overall he’s the most polished prospect in the 2022 NBA Draft. He’s not as flashy as Zion Williamson but has his strength around the rim. He will be able to increase his range over time. Banchero is the closest thing you’re going to get to a complete player, at least in this upcoming draft.

Pro Comparison: More Athletic Tobias Harris

2. Jaden Hardy, C/G/F, G-League

When I saw Jalen Green’s name go off the board with the second pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, I was incredibly disappointed. However, I may have lucked out in the fact that there is a player in this draft who might be even better than Green, and that is Jaden Hardy.

The first thing you notice about the young combo-guard is his range. He’s one of the few players in the country that can pull up from very deep, and hit the shot. On top of that, he’s a smooth player when he’s off the ball. Hardy is also the best play-maker in the draft. His ability to get into the driving lane, or command tough closeouts on his shots, will only make those around him better.

The only two knocks on Hardy is that he can be sloppy with the ball, and is reliant on his jumper a bit too much. Finally, he’s shown solid anticipation, and has a competitive nature, meaning if he puts in the work, he can be a good defender. Add in the positional value of a wing for the Cavs, and he sits at No. 2 on their big board.

Pro Comparison: James Harden

3. Chet Holmgren, F/C, Gonzaga

People will call me crazy for having Holmgren at three, but I did say this was my big board for the Cavs. I just don’t see a fit for him on the roster right now. After re-signing Jarrett Allen, trading for Lauri Markkanen, and drafting Evan Mobley, is there enough room for him in the rotation up front? I don’t know. I will say if he slips in the draft, I have no problem with the Cavs taking him, but that’s only if he’s the best option.

Holmgren needs to add a good 30-45 lbs to his frame. I have a fear he’s going to get bullied in his first couple of seasons in the league. However, he’s an incredible player. His range is great, his ball-handling, especially for a big, is quite astonishing. He’s also very crafty around the rim. Because of his frame, he’s never going to be one the biggest guys on the court, so he uses his soft touch and extended range to beat those guys. On defense, he’s a natural shot-blocker, and like Mobley, can affect shots even if he’s five feet away. Holmgren is a great player and if he’s the best option when the Cavs are on the board, I have no problem taking him, I’m just hoping there are better options.

Pro Comparison: Dirk Nowitzki