Cavs 2022 NBA Draft Big Board: Longshots, fallers, and realistic options

Tier Three (Realistic Possibilities)

7. Jaden Hardy, Guard, G-League Ignite

8. Christian Braun, Wing, Kansas

9. MarJon Beauchamp, Wing, G-League Ignite

10. Malaki Branham, Wing, Ohio State

Alright, it’s time to take a look at four of the best prospects that would fit the Cavs needs if they were to keep their first-rounder by not making the playoffs.

My first choice might surprise some people, but I’ve been all over this guy since last year.Jaden Hardy has not slipped in recent mocks, he’s free-falling. Before the season, he was expected to be a high-lottery pick, that could possibly play his way to the top five. Nonetheless, his choice to skip college and join the G-League Ignite didn’t pan out well for him. Well, that’s what most scouts will tell you. However, I view the G-League differently than most.

I think it’s incredibly impressive that these 18 year olds are playing with grown men, all while giving themselves the most exposure possible. Hardy was known as a knockdown shooter before the season. However, his statline this year is not very impressive.

In 12 games he averaged just under 18 points per game, while shooting an abysmal 35% from the field, and 26% from three. The stats might not show it, but he’s a very good shooter, while also being able to create his own shot. At 6’5″ he has a good frame for an off-ball guard. I fully expect his shooting to bounce back, and when it does, he’s going to be a problem for opposing defenses.

Another guy I really don’t want to talk about right now is Christian Braun. But, all indications point towards him leaving Kansas after this season. Braun had an all Big-12 season, that was capped off with a national title. His defense of Caleb Love, especially down the stretch, was one of the main reasons why they were able to hoist the title. On top of that he’s a good shooter, and looks comfortable pulling up from most places.

Also, when he attacks the basket, he does so with strength, finishing against big bodies with contact. He may take some time to get used to the open NBA playing style, but he would be a great pickup for the Cavaliers. There is definitely variance for Braun, who could potentially slip to the second round, though; he would be a quality selection, either way.

MarJon Beauchamp might be the perfect prospect for Cavs head coach J.B. Bickerstaff. He gives maximum effort on defense and on the glass. He also uses his 6’6″ frame and 7’0 wingspan to disrupt on defense. He’s a capable shooter from deep, and has looked more and more comfortable pulling up. His athleticism is pretty impressive even in this loaded 2022 NBA Draft class. He doesn’t have the killer instinct of great scorers, but on defense he would be a perfect fit among Evan Mobley, Kevin Love, Jarrett Allen, and Lauri Markkanen.

Bringing up the rear on my first big board is Ohio State’s Malaki Branham. He put in a really good season at Ohio State, averaging 13.7 points per game while shooting 49.7% from the field. He’s a hardnosed player who has a good frame for an NBA wing. He’s a real three-level scorer, lighting it up from deep at a 41.6% clip. However, his best shooting comes from the mid-range area, where he loves to pull up. He’s not the most explosive athlete, but he has plenty of strength and bounce.

I know a lot of people will read this and be disappointed about how the season ended up going. Three months ago, we were happy to send that first-round pick to Indiana. Although, now, the Cavs could really use that pick. The Cavaliers need to find wing players this offseason, that much is clear. Isaac Okoro has gotten better, but on most teams he’s not a starter.

Collin Sexton will be returning from injury next season, we think. It’s very possible the Cavs let him walk into free agency and choose to draft a player or find a wing that better fits their needs, conversely.

Either way, the Cavs need to have a clear plan this offseason, or risk another season that spiraled downward, exactly like this season.