2022 NBA Mock Draft: Jabari Smith, Chet Holmgren compete for No. 1

Jabari Smith Jr, NBA Mock Draft Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
Jabari Smith Jr, NBA Mock Draft Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
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(Photo by Handout/NCAA Photos via Getty Images)
(Photo by Handout/NCAA Photos via Getty Images)

2022 NBA Mock Draft — 7. A.J. Griffin, Trail Blazers

The Blazers tend to swing big on athleticism and upside. A.J. Griffin is one of the youngest players in the draft — a crafty and clever playmaking wing who can defend all over the court. He would fit in nicely next to Damian Lillard, providing Portland with more two-way versatility and another player who can create off the bounce.

2022 NBA Mock Draft — 8. Bennedict Mathurin, Pelicans

Bennedict Mathurin continues to receive rave reviews during the pre-draft process. He’s an excellent off-ball shooter who can also explode into the lane and finish with flare at the rim. The Pelicans could use another guard to complement the likes of CJ McCollum in the backcourt, and it’s hard to imagine a better fit than Mathurin.

2022 NBA Mock Draft — 9. Dyson Daniels, Spurs

The Spurs grab another big, physically gifted guard to pair with Dejounte Murray in the backcourt. Daniels would provide San Antonio with excellent defensive versatility, not to mention another quick-witted passer and facilitator to keep the offense humming. Daniels is a very Spursian player, geared toward making teammates better without domineering possessions.