Consensus 2022 Mock Draft: Which players are being mocked to Cavs?

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Patrick Baldwin, Milwaukee Panthers. (Photo by James Gilbert/Getty Images) /

Consensus 2022 Mock Draft: Who could Cavs get at 39?

T1. Patrick Baldwin Jr., Forward, Milwaukee – 1 (ESPN)

Once a top-5 prospect in this draft class, Patrick Baldwin Jr.’s stock has fallen more than any other player. He was absolutely atrocious at Milwaukee this past season playing for his father. It’s probable that some team in the late first takes a swing that he can recover those star qualities he once had; it’s also possible he slips into the second round, and if so the Cavs would get to take a swing at what is still impressive upside.

T1. Kennedy Chandler, Guard, Tennessee – 1 (Sports Illustrated)

The Cavs need a backup point guard, and if the draft board falls the way that SI’s Jeremy Woo thinks it might, they could get one at pick No. 39. Kennedy Chandler is a pure point guard who lacks size (just 6’0″) but is fast with the ball in his hands. He has a tight handle and great court vision, and defensively he picks pockets like no one else. He couldn’t play very many minutes with Darius Garland, but he could be an incredible long-term backup at very minimal cost. Poiint guards like Devonte’ Graham and Jalen Brunson have established themselves after going early in the second round, and Chandler could be the latest.

T1. Justin Lewis, Forward, Marquette – 1 (No Ceilings)

Justin Lewis loves to mix it up inside, and the Cavs could honestly use someone who will put his head down and fight inside, whether that is to score at the rim or fight for a rebound. Lewis had an ok shooting season but has to prove in workouts that his shot will continue to improve. If so he could sneak into the top of the second round; if not he will fall, likely past the Cavs as well.

T1. Ryan Rollins, Guard, Toledo – 1 (Tankathon)

Some draft analysts look at Ryan Rollins and see Lou Williams; others see Nick Young. Both were shoot-first guards with smooth dribble moves and the ability to catch fire, but one put together the little things on the margin to have a long NBA career, and the other was nothing more than a bit player. Ryan Rollins could be either, and his bag of tricks is impressive, but he will need to grow as a passer and in playing with effort to stick around in the league.