NBA Mock Draft 2022: Final predictions, latest trade rumors, top prospects rising and falling entering draft day

Kyle Irving

NBA Mock Draft 2022: Final predictions, latest trade rumors, top prospects rising and falling entering draft day image

The 2022 NBA Draft is here.

After the long NBA season has come to a close, the first tentpole event of the offseason is upon us with the NBA Draft taking place on Thursday, June 23rd.

On the day of the big night, reports are flying around about the number of potential trades that could shake up the draft.

While the first three picks appear to be locked in with Auburn's Jabari Smith Jr., Gonzaga's Chet Holmgren and Duke's Paolo Banchero going to the Magic, Thunder and Rockets, respectively, all signs point to chaos with the Kings at the No. 4 pick.

Will Sacramento stand pat and take Purdue star Jaden Ivey? Or will it try and trade the pick to acquire a win-now asset to try and snap its 16-year playoff drought?

NBA DRAFT BIG BOARD: Ranking top 60 players with NBA player comparisons

Below, you can find our updated 2022 NBA Mock Draft with a "latest news" section for each team that has some buzz around their pick.

For comparison to previous Mock Drafts, you can check out our editions from the start of college basketball season, after the NBA trade deadlinebefore the start of the NCAA Tournamentafter the NCAA Tournament and after the NBA Draft Lottery and two days leading up to the draft.

So without further ado – with the first pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, the Magic select...

NBA Mock Draft 2022

Holmgren-Smith-Banchero-Getty-FTR
(NBAE via Getty Images)

First Round

1. Orlando Magic: Jabari Smith Jr., Auburn

Position: F

Height and weight: 6-foot-10, 210 lbs.

Age: 19, Freshman

The latest news: The Magic appear to be locked in on Smith with the No. 1 pick, as ESPN's Jonathan Givony reported, "any other scenario would be a major surprise to league executives."

The fit: Smith will give Orlando the size, versatility, athleticism and perimeter shooting it desperately needs. He can play alongside Wendell Carter Jr. to make a terrorizing defensive frontcourt and he fits nicely next to last year's standout rookie, Franz Wagner. Guards like Jalen Suggs and Cole Anthony will make life easier for Smith as a spot-up shooter and if he can develop his shot creation skills, he'll give the Magic a No. 1 scoring option down the road.

NBA DRAFT SCOUTING REPORT: Jabari Smith Jr.

2. Oklahoma City Thunder: Chet Holmgren, Gonzaga

Position: C/F

Height and weight: 7-foot-1, 190 lbs.

Age: 20, Freshman

The latest news: Reports say Holmgren has only worked out for Orlando and Oklahoma City and with Smith all but certain to go No. 1, all signs point to the Gonzaga freshman landing here at No. 2.

The fit: The Thunder already have their backcourt of the future in Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Josh Giddey and with this pick, they'll get some much-needed length and rim protection in Holmgren. Holmgren fits Oklahoma City's tendency to target players with size and length, and next to Gilgeous-Alexander and Giddey, he'll be able to ease into an offensive role as a post threat and secondary scorer. Holmgren will also help stretch the floor for the Thunder but most importantly, it's his defense that will be an asset to this rebuilding OKC roster.

NBA DRAFT SCOUTING REPORT: Chet Holmgren

3. Houston Rockets: Paolo Banchero, Duke

Position: F

Height and weight: 6-foot-10, 235 lbs.

Age: 19, Freshman

The latest news: Shortly after the Rockets got a private look at Banchero during a pre-draft workout, they traded starting power forward Christian Wood to the Mavericks for an additional first-round pick, paving the way for Houston to land the Duke product at No. 3.

The fit: Even though Banchero slides to No. 3 here, this is a perfect fit for the Duke product. The Rockets could use a scorer like Banchero to take some pressure off of last year's No. 2 pick Jalen Green, and it's an added bonus that the freshman star is also an advanced playmaker to also help set up the prolific bucket-getter. Banchero will give Houston a versatile player on both ends of the floor who will be a great building block for the future of the franchise. Banchero, in my opinion, is the best player in this draft class, and the Rockets would be lucky for him to fall two slots.

NBA DRAFT SCOUTING REPORT: Paolo Banchero

4. Sacramento Kings: Jaden Ivey, Purdue

Position: G

Height and weight: 6-foot-4, 200 lbs.

Age: 20, Sophomore

The latest news: According to multiple reports, this pick is where the draft will truly begin on Thursday night. ESPN's Givony reported that nearly every team picking behind Sacramento — noting the Pacers, Wizards, Knicks, Thunder and Hawks — have inquired about moving up to select Ivey. And even though NBA Insider Marc Stein reported that Ivey has had no contact with the Kings ahead of the draft, I'm keeping the Purdue guard here as he will be the selection if a team moves up. It's also worth noting that Yahoo Sports' Chris Haynes indicated the Kings have interest in Iowa's Keegan Murray if they don't trade the pick.

The fit: This is a tough spot for the Kings because Ivey will undoubtedly be the best player remaining on the board. The problem? Sacramento literally just cleared up a self-induced backcourt logjam last season. After the Kings drafted Davion Mitchell with their first-round pick last year, they traded away Tyrese Haliburton and Buddy Hield to solidify De'Aaron Fox as their lead guard of the future. But Sacramento needs as much talent as it can get and passing on Ivey would be ill-advised. The Purdue sophomore could pair with Fox to make one of the fastest backcourts in the NBA and they'd both play nicely off of a skilled and cerebral big man like Domantas Sabonis. Passing on the best player available because of the presence of Mitchell and Fox would be a mistake.

MORE: Could Ivey become the best prospect in the 2022 NBA Draft class?

Keegan-Murray-FTR
(Getty Images)

5. Detroit Pistons: Keegan Murray, Iowa

Position: F

Height and weight: 6-foot-8, 215 lbs.

Age: 21, Sophomore

The latest news: After the Pistons reportedly traded Jerami Grant to the Trail Blazers the day before the draft, that shakes up my Mock Draft board. With Grant off the roster, the Pistons now have a need at the power forward position and they should be in line to take Murray here if he doesn't go to the Kings at No. 4. If Murray does go fourth, it should take approximately 3 seconds for the Pistons to phone in the pick for Ivey. It's still worth noting that ESPN's Givony reported the Pistons' front office and coaching staff is "especially interested" in Bennedict Mathurin (assuming Ivey is off the board).

The fit: All along I had the Pistons targeting a backcourt mate to pair with Cade Cunningham here, but following the Grant trade, Murray makes too much sense. Murray was one of the best and most efficient scorers in the country last season and he would replace Grant's offensive firepower in Detroit's frontcourt. He doesn't need as many shots as Grant does to rack up points, making for a smooth pairing next to Cunningham and sharpshooter Saddiq Bey. Murray is also a more physical defender than Grant, giving the Pistons a forward to build around for the future.

6. Indiana Pacers: Bennedict Mathurin, Arizona

Position: G

Height and weight: 6-foot-6, 195 lbs.

Age: 19, Sophomore

The latest news: According to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, the Pacers are expected to move Malcolm Brogdon before the draft begins on Thursday, which puts them in a position to draft a guard here. Even though I have long loved the fit between Murray and the Pacers – and still do, if he's available – I expect Murray to come off the board just before Indiana's pick.

The fit: Even if the Pacers don't move off of Brogdon before the start of the draft, selecting a guard here can give them some insurance in dealing the veteran floor general. Mathurin would be a great fit next to a playmaker like Tyrese Haliburton as a lethal shot creator and scoring guard. He is one of the best off-ball scorers in this class with a burst of speed and explosiveness the Pacers do not have on their current roster. His perimeter shooting and ability to be a secondary creator makes for an exciting young backcourt in Indiana.

7. Portland Trail Blazers: Dyson Daniels, G League Ignite

Position: G

Height and weight: 6-foot-8, 180 lbs.

Age: 19

The latest news: Yahoo Sports' Chris Haynes reported the Trail Blazers are "in pursuit" of Raptors forward OG Anunoby and the No. 7 pick is "in play." The Blazers have already been active in acquiring Jerami Grant from the Pistons and if they were to trade this pick for another established player to fit Lillard's win-now timeline, it could really shake up the lottery. Toronto would likely target a big man like Jalen Duren or guards like Daniels, Bennedict Mathurin or Shaedon Sharpe.

The fit: The Trail Blazers need help on the defensive end and Daniels is one of the best and most versatile defenders in this draft class. At 6-foot-8 with a 6-foot-11 wingspan, Daniels can guard up and down the positional chart with his size, length and speed. He's a jumbo playmaker who can make life easier for Lillard and Simons when he has the ball in his hands, but he can also play off the ball and score as a slasher. After spending a year with the Ignite, he'll be ready to make an impact immediately, which fits Lillard's win-now timeline more than some of these other prospects.

MORE: Dyson Daniels' time is now: On fitting today's NBA mold and hopes of evolving into a Luka Doncic-type

8. New Orleans Pelicans (via LAL): Shaedon Sharpe, Kentucky

Position: G

Height and weight: 6-foot-6, 200 lbs.

Age: 18, Freshman

The latest news: As mentioned above, ESPN's Givony mentioned that Lillard likes Sharpe's potential, so he could be off the board here. But in terms of fit, Sharpe makes more sense in New Orleans than he does in Portland. Givony also noted that teams like the Suns have inquired about trading pieces for this pick to free up the cap space to try and re-sign former No. 1 pick Deandre Ayton.

The fit: The Pelicans proved they're one of the league's best young cores with their run in the 2022 NBA Playoffs — and that was without Zion Williamson on the floor. Adding a shot-creating scorer like Sharpe to a perimeter duo like CJ McCollum and Brandon Ingram is terrifying for opposing defenses. He could help space the floor for Williamson, McCollum, Ingram and Valanciunas and complements their youthful group of defenders like Herb Jones, Trey Murphy III and Jose Alvarado. With McCollum, Ingram and Williamson already in the fold, that also places less immediate pressure on Sharpe who needs to develop good habits and round out the rest of his game.

MORE: Sharpe 2022 NBA Draft Prospect Profile: Strengths, weaknesses

9. San Antonio Spurs: Jalen Duren, Memphis

Position: C

Height and weight: 6-foot-11, 250 lbs.

Age: 18, Freshman

The fit: Duren is the most physical player in this draft class with an NBA-ready body and plus-athleticism. Even though the Spurs already have a quality rim protector in Jakob Poeltl, Duren's speed and fluidity make him better suited for San Antonio's core group of the future in Dejounte Murray and Keldon Johnson. His defense will be an instant asset for the Spurs, while his offensive game needs some polishing. But who better to bring the most out of Duren than the organization that groomed Hall of Fame bigs like David Robinson and Tim Duncan?

10. Washington Wizards: Johnny Davis, Wisconsin

Position: G

Height and weight: 6-foot-5, 194 lbs.

Age: 20, Sophomore

The latest news: The Wizards are reportedly one of the teams inquiring about the Kings' No. 4 pick, as they would try to land Ivey as a backcourt mate of the future alongside Bradley Beal. ESPN's Givony also mentioned Washington potentially moving this pick in favor of established guards like Indiana's Malcolm Brogdon, who Wojnarowski said is expected to be moved ahead of the draft.

The fit: The Wizards need another guard alongside Beal and even though Davis isn't the true point guard they could use, his defense and winning mentality would be beneficial for Washington. Davis is a competitive defender and strong shot creator who would add a physical presence on the perimeter for the Wizards. He can play with or without the ball, which does pair nicely next to Beal, who often operates with the ball in his hands. Davis will give Washington a primary defender for wing assignments and his attitude and work ethic would be invaluable to the organization.

MORE: Beal tweets rebuttal to rumors that he wants out

11. New York Knicks: AJ Griffin, Duke

Position: F

Height and weight: 6-foot-6, 220 lbs.

Age: 18, Freshman

The latest news: The Knicks are reportedly interested in a few different maneuvers in this draft. From moving up to No. 4 to try and select Ivey, to moving off of this pick in favor of an established guard like Indiana's Brogdon, to dumping this pick and salary in an attempt to make a run at Kyrie Irving, New York is expected to be active prior to this selection.

The fit: The Knicks need help on the offensive end and Griffin might just be the best pure shooter in this class. The freshman wing can knock down shots from anywhere on the floor. He has a confident catch-and-shoot jumper, but he's also capable of putting the ball on the floor and using his strong frame to attack the basket. He would give New York another perimeter player with size, fitting like a glove next to a fellow Duke Blue Devil in RJ Barrett.

MORE: Complete list of NBA Draft green room invitees

12. Oklahoma City Thunder (via LAC): Jeremy Sochan, Baylor

Position: F

Height and weight: 6-foot-9, 230 lbs.

Age: 19, Freshman

The latest news: According to ESPN's Givony, the Thunder are reportedly trying to package this pick to move up further in the lottery. With 30-plus draft picks over the next five years, OKC has more assets to offer than any other franchise.

The fit: I had the Thunder selecting Holmgren with the No. 2 pick and I'd expect them to continue to bolster their frontcourt with their second lottery selection here. Sochan makes perfect sense for an Oklahoma City team that could use help on the defensive end. At 6-foot-9 with a 7-foot wingspan, the Baylor freshman has all the tools to be a physical and switchy defender in the NBA. He has the size and athleticism to hold his ground against bigs but he's also quick enough to guard wings on the perimeter. He's an active cutter — something Giddey and Gilgeous-Alexander could feed off of — and he brings a ton of energy to both sides of the ball. If he can improve his jumper, Sochan's ceiling will rise significantly.

Mark-Williams
(Getty Images)

13. Charlotte Hornets: Mark Williams, Duke

Position: C

Height and weight: 7-feet, 245 lbs.

Age: 20, Sophomore

The latest news: The Hornets aren't expected to hold on to both of their mid-first-round picks, per ESPN's Givony, so there is a chance this pick (or No. 15) could be on the move. In desperate need of a center, the Hornets would be wise to keep whichever pick lands them Williams, in my opinion.

The fit: The Hornets' biggest need is a center and Williams is the perfect match at No. 13. While they could play the waiting game and hope that the frontcourt-loaded Cavaliers don't take a big at No. 14, I think it would be better for Charlotte to go get their guy right away. Williams was one of the best rim protectors in the country this past season and he'd give LaMelo Ball a safety valve as a lob threat. He has great hands, he brings a ton of energy on the glass and he's a prototypical rim-runner in today's NBA with good mobility.

14. Cleveland Cavaliers: Malaki Branham, Ohio State

Position: F

Height and weight: 6-foot-5, 180 lbs.

Age: 19, Freshman

The fit: The Cavaliers have their bases covered with big men, but they lack scorers on the wing. That makes Branham a missing puzzle piece for a young, up-and-coming team, as the Ohio State freshman is one of the best pure scorers in this draft class. The Big Ten Rookie of the Year is a fluid shot creator and knockdown shooter. He has good size and length as a defender and most importantly, he would give All-Star guard Darius Garland some serious relief on the offensive end. I believe Branham will be one of the players we look back on and wonder, "Why wasn't he selected higher?" Add to it that he's a Columbus, Ohio native and this match fits like a glove.

MORE: Ranking the 11 best sleeper candidates in this year's draft

15. Charlotte Hornets (via NOP): Ochai Agbaji, Kansas

Position: F/G

Height and weight: 6-foot-5, 215 lbs.

Age: 22, Senior

The latest news: As mentioned in their section for the No. 13 pick, the Hornets aren't expected to keep both of their mid-first-round picks. If they elect to keep the better of the two selections, this pick could be on the move.

The fit: In this scenario, the Hornets fill their biggest void with Williams at pick No. 13, so they can add some more wing depth here at 15. Agbaji would be a great running mate for a playmaker of Ball's caliber as a fast and athletic forward who can run the lane, score off cuts and space the floor as a perimeter shooter. As an upperclassman who is one of the better 3-and-D prospects in this draft, Agbaji will be ready to enter an NBA rotation right away, which suits Charlotte's timeline after losing in the Play-In Tournament in back-to-back seasons.

16. Atlanta Hawks: Ousmane Dieng, NZ Breakers (NBL), France

Position: F

Height and weight: 6-foot-9, 185 lbs.

Age: 19

The latest news: According to multiple reports, the Hawks are trying to move up in the draft and John Collins and Kevin Huerter are two names that have been mentioned as a package to make that happen. Bleacher Report's Jake Fischer went as far to say the Hawks are "operating with the goal of trading John Collins before Thursday night gets underway." If the Hawks are going to move off of a talent like Collins, they should have no problem sliding up into the lottery if they can find a suitor.

The fit: Dieng's stock has soared during the pre-draft process, rising as far as to receive an invitation to the green room on draft night. He doesn't fit Atlanta's win-now timeline, but he's an intriguing development project with a ton of potential to brighten the team's future around Trae Young. The 6-foot-9 forward is a creative scorer and shot creator with quality ball-handling for his size. He has the length to defend multiple positions and if he fills out his frame, he could be a diamond-in-the-rough-type steal.

17. Houston Rockets (via BKN): Tari Eason, LSU

Position: F

Height and weight: 6-foot-8, 216 lbs.

Age: 21, Sophomore

The latest news: The Ringer's O'Connor mentioned that the Rockets may try and package this pick to move up into "the late lottery."

The fit: The Rockets already have plenty of offense and in this scenario where they select Banchero with the No. 3 pick, you can expect them to target defense with this selection. Eason is one of the best, most versatile defenders in his class with length, physicality and athleticism. He's the type of switchable defender every NBA team is looking for, getting his hands in passing lanes and disrupting shots around the basket. Even without a polished jumper, he still averaged 17 points per game this past season at LSU. Eason is the type of defensive-minded player who can help speed up the Rockets' rebuild.

18. Chicago Bulls: E.J. Liddell, Ohio State

Position: F

Height and weight: 6-foot-7, 240 lbs.

Age: 21, Junior

The fit: The Bulls' biggest weakness was their frontcourt and Liddell is a two-way forward who could help address that area of need. He may be undersized at 6-foot-7 but he's extremely athletic, strong and mobile to make up for what he lacks in height. He's a savvy post scorer and improved as a 3-point shooter over his three years at Ohio State. He projects as a power forward or small-ball center who could give Chicago a boost on both ends of the floor.

19. Minnesota Timberwolves: TyTy Washington, Kentucky

Position: G

Height and weight: 6-foot-3, 185 lbs.

Age: 20, Freshman

The fit: Washington was once considered to be a potential top-10 pick before injuries and inconsistency derailed his freshman season. The Timberwolves could use some depth in their backcourt behind Anthony Edwards and D'Angelo Russell and if a talent like Washington is still on the board here, they could find their reserve floor general. Washington is a capable pick-and-roll ball-handler and a solid shooter, but he can be a streaky scorer. His ability to play on or off the ball makes him flexible for the team that selects him.

20. San Antonio Spurs (via TOR): Jalen Williams, Santa Clara

Position: F/G

Height and weight: 6-foot-6, 209 lbs.

Age: 21, Junior

The fit: Williams was one of the biggest winners of the NBA Draft Combine after measuring extremely well and flourishing during the scrimmages. At 6-foot-6 with a 7-foot-2 wingspan (!), Williams can defend multiple positions while adding some size and length as a playmaking scorer. His offensive versatility to play any position from point guard to power forward makes him an intriguing fit for the Spurs, giving them a unique player to add to a young core of Murray, Johnson and in this scenario, Duren.

21. Denver Nuggets: Jaden Hardy, G League Ignite

Position: G

Height and weight: 6-foot-4, 185 lbs.

Age: 19

The fit: While it's hard to assess the Nuggets after playing the entire season without Jamal Murray and the majority of the season without Michael Porter Jr., it became clear they could use more offense outside of reigning MVP Nikola Jokic. Hardy would be a great fit for Denver as one of the most talented scorers in this draft class. He's an advanced shot creator with quick handle and deep 3-point shooting range. While shot selection and consistency are his biggest knocks as a prospect, playing next to Jokic should set Hardy up for better looks than he's ever seen before. The Nuggets could use his offensive prowess.

22. Memphis Grizzlies (via UTA): MarJon Beauchamp, G League Ignite

Position: F

Height and weight: 6-foot-6, 199 lbs.

Age: 21

The fit: The Grizzlies proved they have arrived this season after claiming the No. 2 seed in the West, so now they'll be looking to continue to fill out their roster depth to try and get over the hump. Beauchamp would give Memphis more size, length and athleticism on the wing as a forward who could make a killing running alongside Ja Morant. He can fill a lane and score in transition and does a lot of damage as an active cutter. If he can develop into a more consistent 3-point shooter, Beauchamp would give the Grizzlies a strong 3-and-D player to plug into their already deep rotation.

Kennedy Chandler Tennessee Volunteers
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23. Philadelphia 76ers: Kennedy Chandler, Tennessee

Position: G

Height and weight: 6-feet, 170 lbs.

Age: 19, Freshman

The latest news: The Ringer's O'Connor mentioned the 76ers are trying to package this pick with veteran forward Danny Green to try and move up in the draft.

The fit: The 76ers were severely lacking playmaking and scoring off the bench behind James Harden and Tyrese Maxey. Chandler could fill both of those holes as a lightning-quick guard who is aggressive as a scorer and decisive as a playmaker. As his freshman season went on, he also started to knock down 3-pointers with more consistency. Add to it that he's a pesky on-ball defender and Chandler has all the makings of a solid backup point guard behind Philadelphia's starting backcourt.

24. Milwaukee Bucks: Blake Wesley, Notre Dame

Position: G

Height and weight: 6-foot-5, 185 lbs.

Age: 19, Freshman

The latest news: ESPN's Givony said it appears that the Bucks have been "exploring older players" who can help the team during this championship window. While an upperclassman guard like Andrew Nembhard or upperclassmen wings like Christian Braun or Jake LaRavia could help, Wesley's potential and ability to fit a need for a playmaker feels tough to pass up in this scenario.

The fit: The Bucks were in desperate need for a playmaking punch without Khris Middleton in their second-round loss to the Celtics. Wesley could be an interesting option for Milwaukee as a quick and shifty guard who has hardly scraped the floor of his potential as a player. Wesley has tight handle and changes direction in the blink of an eye, knifing through defenses. He's a capable passer off the dribble, but he did tend to force it and turn the ball over at times. He's a raw prospect but could provide some help for the Bucks' lacking backcourt depth.

25. San Antonio Spurs (via BOS): Nikola Jovic, Mega Basket (ABA), Serbia

Position: F

Height and weight: 6-foot-10, 210 lbs.

Age: 18

The fit: The Spurs have three first-round picks and I could see them taking a flier on Jovic if he's still available here. The 18-year-old is a point forward with an incredible feel for the game. He's at his best playing on the perimeter with crafty passing skills, but also has great touch around the basket on the attack. He's already shown he can perform against other professionals after this past season with Mega Basket and he feels like the type of international prospect the Spurs could develop into something special.

26. Houston Rockets (via DAL): Dalen Terry, Arizona

Position: G

Height and weight: 6-foot-7, 195 lbs.

Age: 19, Sophomore

The fit: The Rockets acquired this pick from the Mavericks in a trade that sent starting power forward Christian Wood to Dallas. Houston could use a young, reserve point guard to groom alongside Kevin Porter Jr. and Josh Christopher and Terry fits that bill as a tall, versatile playmaker who offers something different than the previous two players. Terry is a pass-first guard who has a great feel for the game on both ends of the floor. His size and length are intriguing at 6-foot-7 with a 7-foot-1 wingspan, giving the Rockets a developmental piece for their rebuild.

27. Miami Heat: Trevor Keels, Duke

Position: G

Height and weight: 6-foot-4, 221 lbs.

Age: 18, Freshman

The fit: The Heat's need for a backup point guard became evident when Kyle Lowry went down during the playoffs. While Gabe Vincent did a strong job in his place, Miami could still use some help at the position. Keels is the type of strong and physical guard who could thrive in Heat Culture. He can defend multiple positions at a high level and he has a quick and powerful burst when he attacks the basket. Plus, Keels can knock it down from long range as he showed with some timely 3-point shots during Duke's run to the Final Four. Keels is well worth a flier in the first round and Miami feels like a great fit.

28. Golden State Warriors: Christian Koloko, Arizona

Position: C

Height and weight: 7-foot-1, 230 lbs.

Age: 21, Junior

The fit: The Warriors proved the dynasty is alive and well but there were some glaring areas for improvement. One of them was a void for an athletic and vertical interior threat – which they should receive from former No. 2 pick James Wiseman once he returns next season – but there's no harm in doubling down for depth with someone like Koloko. Koloko is one of the best interior defenders in this draft class, as evidence of taking home Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year. He's quick and athletic enough to keep up with Golden State's smaller lineups and he could be a steal, considering he's still growing as a player after primarily playing soccer until he was 15.

29. Memphis Grizzlies: Walker Kessler, Auburn

Position: C

Height and weight: 7-foot-1, 245 lbs.

Age: 20, Sophomore

The fit: The Grizzlies' frontcourt was lacking when Jaren Jackson Jr. continuously got in foul trouble during the 2022 NBA Playoffs. While Steven Adams brings a physical presence, they could use another brute force like that coming off the bench. That's where Kessler makes sense, as the sophomore was the nation's best shot-blocker this season. He may struggle at the NBA level because teams will hunt the clunkier big in pick-and-rolls, but he's a strong rim protector, solid rebounder and has shown some signs of a perimeter shooting touch.

30. Denver Nuggets (via OKC): Christian Braun, Kansas

Position: F

Height and weight: 6-foot-6, 218 lbs.

Age: 20, Junior

The fit: The Nuggets acquired this pick from the Thunder and I could see them targeting wing depth – particularly with shooters and cutters – to complement Jokic. Braun is the type of 3-and-D player who could excel playing off of a playmaker of Jokic's caliber. He has great instincts as a cutter and rebounds at a high level. He knocked down 38 percent of his 3s during his three seasons at Kansas and was a key cog in their National Championship run this past year. Braun does all the little things to help a team and the Nuggets could use a player who plays winning basketball the way he does as they look to compete immediately when they return to full strength next season.

Second Round

31. Pacers (via HOU): Jaylin Williams, F, Arkansas

32. Magic: Jake LaRavia, F, Wake Forest

33. Raptors (via DET): Caleb Houstan, F, Michigan

34. Thunder: Wendell Moore Jr., F, Duke

35. Lakers (via ORL): Peyton Watson, F, UCLA

36. Pacers (via POR): Kendall Brown, F, Baylor

37. Kings: Ismael Kamagate, C, Paris

38. Spurs (via LAL): Bryce McGowens, G, Nebraska

39. Cavaliers (via SAS): Patrick Baldwin Jr., F, Milwaukee

40. Timberwolves (via WAS): Andrew Nembhard, G, Gonzaga

41. Pelicans: Justin Lewis, F, Marquette

42. Knicks: Ryan Rollins, G, Toledo

43. Clippers: Khalifa Diop, C, Gran Canaria

44. Hawks: Max Christie, G, Michigan State

45. Hornets: Josh Minott, F, Memphis

46. Pistons (via BKN): Michael Foster, F, G League Ignite

47. Grizzlies (via CLE): Dereon Seabron, F, NC State

48. Timberwolves: David Roddy, F, Colorado State

49. Cavaliers (via SAC): Hugo Besson, G, New Zealand Breakers

50. Timberwolves (via DEN): Jean Montero, G, Overtime Elite

51. Warriors: Alondes Williams, G, Wake Forest

52. Pelicans (via UTA): Dominic Barlow, F, Overtime Elite

53. Celtics: Jabari Walker, F, Colorado

– Milwaukee: Forfeited

– Heat (via PHI): Forfeited

54. Wizards (via DAL): JD Davison, G, Alabama

55. Warriors: Ron Harper Jr., F, Rutgers

56. Cavaliers (via MIA): Gabriele Procida, F, Fortitudo Bologna

57. Trail Blazers (via MEM): Trevion Williams, C, Purdue

58. Pacers (via PHX): Moussa Diabate, F, Michigan

Kyle Irving

Kyle Irving Photo

You read that wrong – not Kyrie Irving. From Boston, graduated from the University of New Hampshire. Sixth season as a content producer for NBA.com's Global editions. Covering the NBA Draft has become his annual "dream come true" moment on the job. Irving has a soft spot for pass-first point guards, with Rajon Rondo and Steve Nash being two of his favorite players of all time.