NBA Draft 2022: Full List Of Picks
The NBA Draft 2022 was a pivotal moment for teams looking to inject fresh talent into their rosters. This event, held on June 23, 2022, at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, saw immense anticipation and excitement as teams selected from a pool of promising young players. Understanding the nuances of each pick, the strategic decisions behind them, and the potential impact these players could have on their respective teams is crucial for any NBA enthusiast. This comprehensive breakdown covers all the draft picks, offering insights into the selections and what they signify for the future of the league.
First Round
The first round of the NBA Draft is where franchises hope to find potential superstars and franchise cornerstones. The selections made here often dictate a team's trajectory for years to come. Let's dive into each pick:
1. Orlando Magic: Paolo Banchero, F, Duke
With the first overall pick, the Orlando Magic selected Paolo Banchero from Duke University. Banchero's combination of size, skill, and scoring ability made him an attractive prospect. His versatility allows him to play multiple positions, offering the Magic flexibility in their lineup. Banchero's strengths lie in his offensive prowess, particularly his ability to create his own shot and score in various ways. He's a capable ball-handler for his size, which allows him to attack the basket effectively and make plays for his teammates. Additionally, his developing jump shot makes him a threat from beyond the arc. One of the key reasons the Magic picked Banchero was his potential to become a primary scorer and offensive focal point for the team. His ability to draw fouls and convert them into points is also a valuable asset. Defensively, while Banchero has shown flashes of potential, there's room for improvement in terms of consistency and effort. However, his physical tools suggest that he can develop into a solid defender with proper coaching and development. The Magic are banking on Banchero becoming a cornerstone player who can lead them back to contention in the Eastern Conference. His selection marks a significant step in their rebuilding process, as they aim to surround him with complementary talent to create a competitive roster. Overall, Banchero's selection reflects the Magic's belief in his high ceiling and potential to become a star in the NBA.
2. Oklahoma City Thunder: Chet Holmgren, F/C, Gonzaga
The Oklahoma City Thunder, known for their shrewd drafting, selected Chet Holmgren with the second overall pick. Holmgren, a unique prospect from Gonzaga, brings an intriguing blend of size, skill, and defensive potential to the Thunder. Standing at 7 feet tall with a wiry frame, Holmgren's most appealing attribute is his defensive versatility. He's an exceptional shot-blocker, using his length and timing to disrupt opponents' shots around the rim. Additionally, he's surprisingly mobile for his size, allowing him to switch onto smaller players and defend in space. Offensively, Holmgren possesses a smooth shooting stroke and can stretch the floor with his three-point shooting. He's also a capable ball-handler and passer, which allows him to contribute in various ways on offense. However, concerns about Holmgren's slight frame and ability to handle physical play in the NBA were raised by some analysts. The Thunder are confident that Holmgren can overcome these concerns with proper strength and conditioning. His fit alongside Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Josh Giddey is seen as a key factor in the Thunder's long-term success. Holmgren's ability to space the floor and protect the rim complements Gilgeous-Alexander's scoring ability and Giddey's playmaking skills. The Thunder envision Holmgren as a foundational piece who can help them build a contending team in the Western Conference. His selection reflects their commitment to drafting high-upside players with unique skill sets.
3. Houston Rockets: Jabari Smith Jr., F, Auburn
The Houston Rockets picked Jabari Smith Jr. from Auburn University with the third overall pick. Smith, known for his exceptional shooting and defensive potential, fits perfectly into the Rockets' rebuilding plan. His strengths lie in his ability to space the floor with his smooth and accurate jump shot. He's a high-volume shooter with a quick release, making him a threat from anywhere on the court. Defensively, Smith possesses the length, athleticism, and tenacity to become a versatile defender. He can guard multiple positions and is a capable shot-blocker and rebounder. The Rockets were drawn to Smith's combination of shooting and defensive potential, which they believe will make him a valuable asset in today's NBA. His fit alongside Jalen Green and Kevin Porter Jr. is seen as crucial to the Rockets' long-term success. Smith's ability to space the floor will open up driving lanes for Green and Porter Jr., while his defensive versatility will help anchor the Rockets' defense. The Rockets envision Smith as a foundational piece who can help them build a contending team in the Western Conference. His selection reflects their commitment to drafting high-character players with elite skills.
4. Sacramento Kings: Keegan Murray, F, Iowa
The Sacramento Kings selected Keegan Murray from Iowa with the fourth overall pick, a pick that raised some eyebrows among fans and analysts alike. Murray, a versatile forward, brings a polished offensive game and a high basketball IQ to the Kings. His strengths lie in his ability to score in various ways, both inside and outside the paint. He's a capable shooter from beyond the arc and can also score off the dribble and in the post. Additionally, he's a smart and efficient player who makes good decisions with the ball. The Kings were drawn to Murray's maturity and readiness to contribute immediately. His fit alongside De'Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis is seen as a key factor in the Kings' attempt to break their playoff drought. Murray's ability to space the floor and score efficiently will complement Fox's speed and Sabonis's inside presence. The Kings envision Murray as a key role player who can help them compete in the Western Conference. His selection reflects their desire to add experienced and reliable players to their roster.
5. Detroit Pistons: Jaden Ivey, G, Purdue
The Detroit Pistons, looking to add explosiveness to their backcourt, selected Jaden Ivey from Purdue with the fifth overall pick. Ivey is known for his elite athleticism and scoring ability. His strengths lie in his ability to attack the basket with speed and power. He's a dynamic finisher who can score in a variety of ways around the rim. Additionally, he's a developing shooter who has shown flashes of potential from beyond the arc. The Pistons were drawn to Ivey's athleticism and scoring potential, which they believe will make him a valuable asset in their rebuilding process. His fit alongside Cade Cunningham is seen as crucial to the Pistons' long-term success. Ivey's ability to attack the basket will open up opportunities for Cunningham to create and score. The Pistons envision Ivey as a dynamic scorer who can help them compete in the Eastern Conference.
6. Indiana Pacers: Bennedict Mathurin, G/F, Arizona
With the sixth pick, the Indiana Pacers chose Bennedict Mathurin from Arizona. Mathurin is highly regarded for his shooting and athleticism. He's a confident scorer, particularly from beyond the arc, and brings energy on both ends of the floor. The Pacers see him as a valuable addition to their young core.
7. Portland Trail Blazers: Shaedon Sharpe, G, Kentucky
The Portland Trail Blazers selected Shaedon Sharpe from Kentucky with the seventh overall pick. Sharpe, a mysterious prospect who didn't play in college, is known for his elite athleticism and scoring potential. The Trail Blazers are betting on his upside and believe he can develop into a star player.
8. New Orleans Pelicans: Dyson Daniels, G, G League Ignite
The New Orleans Pelicans selected Dyson Daniels from the G League Ignite with the eighth overall pick. Daniels, a versatile guard, brings playmaking, defense, and size to the Pelicans. His ability to guard multiple positions and create for others makes him a valuable addition to their roster.
9. San Antonio Spurs: Jeremy Sochan, F, Baylor
The San Antonio Spurs selected Jeremy Sochan from Baylor with the ninth overall pick. Sochan, a versatile defender and playmaker, fits perfectly into the Spurs' culture. His ability to guard multiple positions and make plays for others makes him a valuable addition to their roster.
10. Washington Wizards: Johnny Davis, G, Wisconsin
The Washington Wizards selected Johnny Davis from Wisconsin with the tenth overall pick. Davis, a tough and competitive guard, brings scoring and defensive intensity to the Wizards. His ability to score in various ways and defend at a high level makes him a valuable addition to their roster.
11. Oklahoma City Thunder: Ousmane Dieng, F, New Zealand Breakers
The Oklahoma City Thunder, with their second pick in the first round, selected Ousmane Dieng from the New Zealand Breakers. Dieng, a raw but talented wing, brings size and potential to the Thunder. They are banking on his long-term development.
12. Oklahoma City Thunder: Jalen Williams, G/F, Santa Clara
With their third pick in the first round, the Oklahoma City Thunder selected Jalen Williams from Santa Clara. Williams, a versatile player with a high basketball IQ, brings scoring, playmaking, and defensive potential to the Thunder.
13. Charlotte Hornets: Mark Williams, C, Duke
The Charlotte Hornets selected Mark Williams from Duke with the thirteenth overall pick. Williams, a towering center, brings rim protection and rebounding to the Hornets. His size and athleticism make him a valuable addition to their frontcourt.
14. Cleveland Cavaliers: Ochai Agbaji, G/F, Kansas
The Cleveland Cavaliers selected Ochai Agbaji from Kansas with the fourteenth overall pick. Agbaji, a sharpshooting wing, brings spacing and defense to the Cavaliers. His ability to knock down shots and defend at a high level makes him a valuable addition to their roster.
15. Charlotte Hornets: Jalen Duren, C, Memphis
The Charlotte Hornets selected Jalen Duren from Memphis with the 15th overall pick. Duren, one of the youngest players in the draft, is known for his strength and rebounding ability. His potential is very high.
16. Atlanta Hawks: AJ Griffin, G/F, Duke
The Atlanta Hawks selected AJ Griffin from Duke with the sixteenth overall pick. Griffin, a sharpshooting wing, brings spacing and scoring to the Hawks. His ability to knock down shots makes him a valuable addition to their offense.
17. Houston Rockets: Tari Eason, F, LSU
The Houston Rockets selected Tari Eason from LSU with the seventeenth overall pick. Eason, an athletic and versatile forward, brings energy and defensive potential to the Rockets. His ability to guard multiple positions makes him a valuable addition to their roster.
18. Chicago Bulls: Dalen Terry, G, Arizona
The Chicago Bulls selected Dalen Terry from Arizona with the eighteenth overall pick. Terry, a versatile guard, brings playmaking and defensive potential to the Bulls. His ability to guard multiple positions and create for others makes him a valuable addition to their roster.
19. Minnesota Timberwolves: Jake LaRavia, F, Wake Forest
The Minnesota Timberwolves selected Jake LaRavia from Wake Forest with the nineteenth overall pick. LaRavia, a skilled and versatile forward, brings shooting and playmaking to the Timberwolves. His ability to space the floor and create for others makes him a valuable addition to their offense.
20. San Antonio Spurs: Malaki Branham, G/F, Ohio State
The San Antonio Spurs selected Malaki Branham from Ohio State with the twentieth overall pick. Branham, a smooth and skilled scorer, brings offensive firepower to the Spurs. His ability to create his own shot and score in various ways makes him a valuable addition to their roster.
21. Denver Nuggets: Christian Braun, G/F, Kansas
The Denver Nuggets selected Christian Braun from Kansas with the twenty-first overall pick. Braun, a tough and competitive wing, brings energy and defensive intensity to the Nuggets. His ability to defend at a high level and contribute on offense makes him a valuable addition to their roster.
22. Memphis Grizzlies: Walker Kessler, C, Auburn
The Memphis Grizzlies selected Walker Kessler from Auburn with the twenty-second overall pick. Kessler, a towering center, brings rim protection and rebounding to the Grizzlies. His size and shot-blocking ability make him a valuable addition to their frontcourt.
23. Philadelphia 76ers: David Roddy, F, Colorado State
The Philadelphia 76ers selected David Roddy from Colorado State with the twenty-third overall pick. Roddy, a versatile and physical forward, brings toughness and scoring to the 76ers. His ability to score inside and out makes him a valuable addition to their offense.
24. Milwaukee Bucks: MarJon Beauchamp, G/F, G League Ignite
The Milwaukee Bucks selected MarJon Beauchamp from the G League Ignite with the twenty-fourth overall pick. Beauchamp, an athletic and energetic wing, brings scoring and defensive potential to the Bucks. His ability to attack the basket and defend at a high level makes him a valuable addition to their roster.
25. San Antonio Spurs: Blake Wesley, G, Notre Dame
The San Antonio Spurs selected Blake Wesley from Notre Dame with the twenty-fifth overall pick. Wesley, a dynamic and athletic guard, brings scoring and playmaking potential to the Spurs. His ability to create his own shot and make plays for others makes him a valuable addition to their roster.
26. Minnesota Timberwolves: Wendell Moore Jr., G/F, Duke
The Minnesota Timberwolves selected Wendell Moore Jr. from Duke with the twenty-sixth overall pick. Moore, a versatile and well-rounded wing, brings playmaking and defensive potential to the Timberwolves. His ability to guard multiple positions and create for others makes him a valuable addition to their roster.
27. Miami Heat: Nikola Jović, F, Mega Basket (Serbia)
The Miami Heat selected Nikola Jović from Mega Basket (Serbia) with the twenty-seventh overall pick. Jović, a skilled and versatile forward, brings shooting and playmaking to the Heat. His ability to space the floor and create for others makes him a valuable addition to their offense.
28. Golden State Warriors: Patrick Baldwin Jr., F, Milwaukee
The Golden State Warriors selected Patrick Baldwin Jr. from Milwaukee with the twenty-eighth overall pick. Baldwin, a sharpshooting forward, brings spacing and scoring to the Warriors. His ability to knock down shots makes him a valuable addition to their offense.
29. Houston Rockets: TyTy Washington Jr., G, Kentucky
The Houston Rockets selected TyTy Washington Jr. from Kentucky with the twenty-ninth overall pick. Washington, a skilled and poised guard, brings playmaking and scoring to the Rockets. His ability to create for others and score in various ways makes him a valuable addition to their roster.
30. Denver Nuggets: Peyton Watson, F, UCLA
The Denver Nuggets selected Peyton Watson from UCLA with the thirtieth overall pick. Watson, a raw but athletic wing, brings defensive potential and upside to the Nuggets. They are betting on his long-term development and believe he can become a valuable role player.
Second Round
The second round is where teams look for hidden gems and players who can develop into valuable contributors. While the pressure isn't as high as in the first round, finding a diamond in the rough can significantly boost a team's depth and long-term prospects. The selections are:
31. Indiana Pacers: Andrew Nembhard, G, Gonzaga
32. Orlando Magic: Caleb Houstan, F, Michigan
33. Toronto Raptors: Christian Koloko, C, Arizona
34. Milwaukee Bucks: Jabari Walker, F, Colorado
35. Los Angeles Lakers: Max Christie, G/F, Michigan State
36. Detroit Pistons: Gabriele Procida, G/F, Fortitudo Bologna (Italy)
37. Sacramento Kings: Jaden Hardy, G, G League Ignite
38. San Antonio Spurs: Kennedy Chandler, G, Tennessee
39. Cleveland Cavaliers: Khalifa Diop, C, Gran Canaria (Senegal)
40. Minnesota Timberwolves: Bryce McGowens, G/F, Nebraska
41. New Orleans Pelicans: E.J. Liddell, F, Ohio State
42. New York Knicks: Trevor Keels, G, Duke
43. Los Angeles Clippers: Moussa Diabaté, F, Michigan
44. Golden State Warriors: Ryan Rollins, G, Toledo
45. Charlotte Hornets: Josh Minott, F, Memphis
46. Detroit Pistons: Ismael Kamagate, C, Paris Basketball (France)
47. Memphis Grizzlies: Vince Williams Jr., G/F, VCU
48. Minnesota Timberwolves: Kendall Brown, F, Baylor
49. Sacramento Kings: Filip Petrušev, C, Anadolu Efes (Serbia)
50. Minnesota Timberwolves: Matteo Spagnolo, G, Vanoli Cremona (Italy)
51. Golden State Warriors: Tyrese Martin, G/F, UConn
52. Denver Nuggets: Ismaël Kamagaté, C, Paris Basketball (France)
53. Boston Celtics: JD Davison, G, Alabama
54. Washington Wizards: Yannick Nzosa, C, Unicaja Málaga (Congo)
55. Golden State Warriors: Gui Santos, G/F, Minas Tênis Clube (Brazil)
56. Cleveland Cavaliers: Luke Travers, G/F, Perth Wildcats (Australia)
57. Portland Trail Blazers: Jabari Walker, F, Colorado
58. Indiana Pacers: Hugo Besson, G, New Zealand Breakers
Conclusion
The 2022 NBA Draft was filled with talent and potential, offering teams a chance to reshape their futures. From Paolo Banchero going first overall to the later picks in the second round, each selection represents a hope and a plan. As these young players develop and integrate into their respective teams, the basketball world will be watching to see who emerges as the next stars of the NBA. The draft is just the beginning; the real work starts now.
