2022 NBA Draft: First KJG Mock of year for the first round
2022 NBA Mock Draft 1.0, for the first round
(Draft Order based on results through Jan. 10, for reference)
Picks 1-5
#1. Detroit Pistons: Paulo Banchero, Forward, Duke
As I mentioned earlier, Banchero is among three players favored to go in the top three. But, at this point in the season, Banchero has been the most consistent. He has an NBA-ready body, and can play forward or a big wing position. On top of that, among Holmgren, Smith, and Banchero, the ladder has a game that projects to the NBA a bit better than that of Smith. This pick will likely flip-flop nearly every week until draft day.
Although, for right now Banchero is your best bet if you’re the Pistons. Pairing him with Cade Cunningham gives the Pistons an explosive young duo that will be in Detroit for a long time.
#2. Orlando Magic: Jabari Smith, Forward, Auburn
Smith has sky-rocketed up big boards from Auburn’s first game. By drafting Smith, the Magic will be able to pair him with current rookie Franz Wagner, who has been excellent thus far. Smith has a high shot release that makes his shot incredibly tough to defend. On top of that he’s shooting 43 percent from deep on the year, which is great for such a young player. You may not know this, but Smith is a full year younger than Gonzaga’s Holmgren.
There are some questions surrounding Smith, including his two-point percentage (46 percent) and his finishing around the rim. However, those are easy to look past when watching Smith.
#3. Houston Rockets: Chet Holmgren, Center, Gonzaga
And the last man standing among the top three is Holmgren, who was viewed as the sure fire top pick up until this season. He’s fallen behind Smith and Banchero because of his skinny frame, and lack of superstar minutes. Holmgren is a key part of the Bulldogs team, but he’s nowhere near as important to his team as Smith is to his. Still, Holmgren has a lot to offer as a top three pick.
He’s shooting an absurd 75 percent from inside the arc, and blocking over three shots per game. He’s doing this while only playing 25 minutes per game. Yes there is some concern surrounding Holmgren, but the Rockets will still have an easy decision on draft night.
#4. Oklahoma City Thunder: Jalen Duren, Center, Memphis
This is an unfortunate spot to be in if you are Oklahoma City. They barely miss out on one of the top three prospects in the draft. With that being said, I expect the Oklahoma City front office to be on the phone lines right now looking for a way to trade into the top three. However, if they do stay at four, Duren gives them an incredible defensive presence. He is shooting over 65 percent from the field, and blocking over two shots a game.
While Jaden Ivey, Jaden Hardy, and Johnny Davis are all still on the board, Duren offers them a lot. He will immediately be a lob partner with Josh Giddey and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and on top of that he will lock down the inside on defense. Like I said, there are some other wings that are available, but the Thunder need a real dominating post presence, and Duren brings that. On top of that, he’s one of the youngest players in the draft at age 18.
#5. New Orleans Pelicans: Jaden Ivey, Guard, Purdue
Ivey is having an incredible season this year for Purdue. Coming into this season, there were major question marks surrounding his shooting. He’s an excellent athlete, with a high motor, but he needed to work on his shot.
Well, work on his shot he did, and now he’s one of the top five players available in the draft. He’s also improved his passing this season, totaling over three assists per game. The best part though, is that he is shooting over 40 percent from three, while taking nearly five per game. That’s something scouts will love.
With the future of Zion Williamson seemingly hanging in the balance, the Pelicans need to go get a guy who can contribute immediately, and Ivey can do that.