Predicting the 2022 NBA Draft's Top Prospects in the Future

By H. Janér

The 2022 NBA Draft concluded Thursday after 60 different players were picked to their new teams. Many will end up having stellar NBA careers, however some will not be remembered, or worse, remembered for being labelled a bust. Despite the future being impossible to predict, some of these players have distinguished features for the better or for the worse, which surely affects their promise and future potential.

Best Player:
Jabari Smith, F, Auburn
The 19-year-old high-flyer from Auburn is sure to catch some eyes when he gets to the NBA. It is not very often you see a 6-foot-10, 220lbs forward with a 7 feet wingspan have arguably the best jumper in his draft class. Not only that, but Smith also can jump out of the gym and play versatile defence, almost guarding 1-through-5. It would have been more ideal for his career for him to be picked by the Thunder, however with the young core in Houston, Smith will surely be able to develop nicely along Jalen Green and company.
 
Final Career Stat Predictions:
Years Played: 15
All-Star Appearances: 11
All-NBA Teams: 7
MVPs: 1
DPOYs: 0
Championships: 1
 
Honourable Mentions: Benedict Mathurin (G, Arizona), Keegan Murray (F, Iowa)
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Biggest Disappointment/Bust:
Chet Holmgren
Despite being drafted to the most well-ran organisation out of the top 5 picks, Holmgren has not even played a game yet and fame seems to have gotten to his head already. His 7-foot frame mixed with his versatility results in a very rarely seen amount of potential. However, his biggest weakness is his strength, which may come back to bite him in this physical NBA. However, this also may be one of his biggest strengths, if used like Kevin Durant did. Furthermore, his confidence may result in a lack of attitude and arrogance which always outweighs talent; as they say, hard work beats talent. However, he has one of the highest ceilings in the NBA, and this take may age hilariously bad when it is all said and done.

Final Career Stat Predictions:
All-Stars: 0
All-NBA Teams: 0
MVPS: 0
DPOYS: 0
NBA Championships: 0