2022 NBA Mock Draft — 7. A.J. Griffin, Blazers
The Blazers are still ostensibly building around Damian Lillard with the intent to win games and compete for a championship. We will have to wait and see how (or if) the seventh pick factors into that. If Portland does keep the pick, A.J. Griffin is the best option available. He’s a clever and crafty scorer on the wing with real playmaking upside. He’s also a long and versatile defender whose motor never falters. There are injury concerns dating back to high school, but the talent and production is all there.
2022 NBA Mock Draft — 8. Benedict Mathurin, Pelicans
The Pelicans could vault into contention as soon as next season. Once Zion Williamson returns, that offense is going to be very difficult to stop. Bennedict Mathurin would augment the offense even further, providing New Orleans with another dynamic guard in the backcourt. He has the size at 6-foot-5 to play with CJ McCollum long term, with the passing upside and self-creation skills necessary to be McCollum’s backup in the short term. He also flashes potential on defense due to his length.
2022 NBA Mock Draft — 9. Johnny Davis, Spurs
The Spurs could use another shot-maker in the backcourt. Dejounte Murray made the All-Star leap last season, but he’s still limited as an individual scorer. He’s much better equipped to spread the sugar and put teammates in a position for success. Johnny Davis will need to really hammer out the 3-point shot, but he’s a talented individual scorer who could one day take over the reigns of No. 1 option in San Antonio. He should work well off of Murray, though it would take some time to adjust to a lower usage rate.