NBA Draft 2022: Top Prospects - Ochai Agbaji To Bennedict Mathurin

The 2022 NBA Draft was full of surprises and excitement, showcasing a wealth of young talent ready to make their mark in the league. From lottery picks to potential steals in later rounds, several players stood out. This article dives into the journeys and skills of some of the top prospects from that year, including Ochai Agbaji, Jaden Ivey, Jalen Duren, Keegan Murray, Jabari Smith Jr., Shaedon Sharpe, Dyson Daniels, and Bennedict Mathurin. Let's explore what made each of these athletes a coveted pick and what fans could expect from them as they transition into the pros.

Ochai Agbaji: The Seasoned Sharpshooter

Ochai Agbaji, a standout from the University of Kansas, entered the 2022 NBA Draft with a reputation as a seasoned and polished player. His journey to becoming a lottery pick was marked by consistent improvement and a dedicated work ethic. Initially viewed as a role player, Agbaji transformed himself into one of the most reliable shooters and versatile scorers in college basketball. His senior year saw him average 18.8 points per game while shooting an impressive 40.7% from beyond the arc, earning him the Big 12 Player of the Year award and a consensus All-American honor. These achievements highlighted his readiness for the NBA. Scouts lauded Agbaji for his NBA-ready skillset. His ability to knock down shots from anywhere on the court, coupled with his solid defensive presence, made him an attractive prospect for teams seeking immediate contributions.

One of Agbaji's greatest strengths is his three-point shooting. In today's NBA, where spacing and perimeter scoring are paramount, his proficiency from beyond the arc is a valuable asset. His quick release and consistent accuracy make him a threat both in catch-and-shoot situations and off-the-dribble scenarios. Furthermore, Agbaji isn't just a one-dimensional shooter; he possesses a decent handle and the ability to attack closeouts, making him a capable secondary playmaker. Defensively, Agbaji brings good size and athleticism to the table. He is known for his effort and willingness to guard multiple positions, which is a crucial trait for any role player in the NBA. His understanding of team defense concepts and his ability to navigate screens make him a reliable defender who won't be easily targeted by opposing offenses. Before the draft, many analysts projected Agbaji as a plug-and-play wing who could immediately contribute to a contending team. His experience and maturity were seen as significant advantages. The Cleveland Cavaliers selected him with the 14th overall pick, a decision that was met with considerable praise. The Cavs, looking to add shooting and defensive versatility to their roster, found an ideal fit in Agbaji. As he transitioned to the NBA, the expectations were high for Agbaji to make an immediate impact. His shooting prowess and defensive capabilities were expected to complement the Cavs' existing core, helping them solidify their position as a top team in the Eastern Conference.

Jaden Ivey: The Explosive Playmaker

Jaden Ivey was one of the most electrifying prospects in the 2022 NBA Draft. Known for his blazing speed, explosive athleticism, and scoring prowess, Ivey quickly captured the attention of scouts and fans alike. His time at Purdue University showcased his potential to become a dynamic playmaker at the next level. Averaging 17.3 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game in his sophomore year, Ivey demonstrated his ability to impact the game in multiple ways. His electrifying performances earned him All-Big Ten First Team honors and solidified his status as a lottery pick. What truly sets Ivey apart is his incredible athleticism. His speed and agility allow him to blow by defenders with ease. In transition, he is a nightmare for opponents, capable of finishing above the rim with highlight-reel dunks. His explosiveness isn't limited to just scoring; he also uses his athleticism to be a disruptive defender, capable of generating steals and blocks.

Ivey's scoring ability is another major draw. He is a confident shooter from beyond the arc, and his improved three-point percentage during his sophomore year (35.8%) showed his commitment to expanding his range. He is also adept at creating his own shot off the dribble, using his quickness and ball-handling skills to get to the basket. His fearlessness in attacking the rim makes him a constant threat to draw fouls and get to the free-throw line. Despite his obvious talents, Ivey entered the NBA with areas for improvement. His decision-making and court vision sometimes lagged behind his physical gifts. Learning to read defenses better and making smarter passes were seen as key areas for his development. The Detroit Pistons, eager to add a dynamic guard to their young core, selected Ivey with the 5th overall pick. This selection was widely seen as a perfect fit, pairing Ivey with Cade Cunningham to form an exciting backcourt duo. As he embarked on his NBA journey, the expectations were high for Ivey to become a star. His athleticism and scoring ability offered immense potential. While there were aspects of his game that needed refinement, the Pistons were confident that his talent and work ethic would allow him to develop into a premier player.

Jalen Duren: The Dominant Force

Jalen Duren entered the 2022 NBA Draft as one of the youngest and most physically imposing prospects. His combination of size, strength, and athleticism made him a highly coveted big man. Duren reclassified to join the 2021 recruiting class and immediately made an impact at the University of Memphis, averaging 12.0 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game. His performances earned him AAC Freshman of the Year honors and showcased his readiness for the NBA despite his young age. Duren's greatest strength is his physical presence. At 6'11" and 250 pounds, he possesses the size and strength to dominate in the paint. His ability to establish position, grab rebounds, and protect the rim makes him a valuable asset on both ends of the floor. He is also an explosive athlete, capable of finishing above the rim with authority and running the floor with surprising agility for his size.

Defensively, Duren is a formidable rim protector. His shot-blocking ability and willingness to challenge opponents at the basket make him a deterrent for opposing offenses. He is also a solid rebounder, using his size and strength to box out opponents and secure boards. As he continues to develop, improving his defensive awareness and positioning will be crucial for him to become an elite defender. Offensively, Duren is still developing his skillset. While he is not yet a polished scorer, he shows flashes of potential in the post. Improving his footwork, developing a reliable jump shot, and expanding his offensive repertoire were seen as key areas for his growth. The Detroit Pistons acquired Duren in a draft-night trade, adding another promising young player to their roster. His addition provided the Pistons with a physical presence in the paint and a potential anchor for their defense. As Duren transitioned to the NBA, the expectations were tempered by his youth and relative inexperience. However, his physical tools and potential were undeniable. With the right development and coaching, he had the potential to become a dominant force in the league.

Keegan Murray: The Polished Scorer

Keegan Murray was one of the most productive and efficient scorers in college basketball during his sophomore year at the University of Iowa. His breakout season catapulted him into lottery pick consideration, and his combination of size, skill, and basketball IQ made him an attractive prospect for NBA teams. Averaging 23.5 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game, Murray showcased his ability to score from anywhere on the court. His performances earned him consensus All-American honors and solidified his status as one of the top players in the nation. Murray's scoring ability is his greatest strength. He is a versatile scorer who can knock down shots from beyond the arc, attack the basket, and score in the post. His ability to score in a variety of ways makes him difficult to defend. He is also an excellent rebounder, using his size and positioning to secure boards on both ends of the floor.

One of Murray's most impressive attributes is his efficiency. He shot an impressive 55.4% from the field and 39.8% from three-point range during his sophomore year, demonstrating his ability to score without forcing shots. His high basketball IQ and understanding of spacing allow him to find open looks and make smart decisions on the court. Defensively, Murray is a solid contributor. He is not an elite athlete, but he uses his size and length to disrupt opponents and contest shots. Improving his lateral quickness and defensive awareness were seen as key areas for his development. The Sacramento Kings selected Murray with the 4th overall pick, a decision that was met with some surprise. However, the Kings were drawn to Murray's scoring ability and fit alongside their existing core. As he transitioned to the NBA, the expectations were high for Murray to become a key contributor. His scoring prowess and efficient play style offered immense potential, and the Kings were confident that he would quickly adapt to the professional game.

Jabari Smith Jr.: The Elite Shooter

Jabari Smith Jr. entered the 2022 NBA Draft as one of the most highly touted prospects, known for his elite shooting ability and defensive potential. His combination of size, skill, and athleticism made him a potential No. 1 overall pick. During his freshman year at Auburn University, Smith averaged 16.9 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 1.1 steals per game. His performances earned him SEC Freshman of the Year honors and solidified his status as a top prospect. Smith's greatest strength is his shooting ability. At 6'10", he possesses a smooth and effortless jump shot with incredible range. His ability to knock down shots from anywhere on the court makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses. He is also a capable scorer off the dribble, using his length and athleticism to create space and get to the basket.

Defensively, Smith has immense potential. His size and length allow him to guard multiple positions, and his athleticism makes him a capable shot-blocker and rebounder. As he continues to develop, improving his strength and defensive awareness will be crucial for him to become an elite defender. While Smith's shooting ability is undeniable, he entered the NBA with areas for improvement. Improving his ball-handling skills, developing a more consistent post game, and expanding his offensive repertoire were seen as key areas for his growth. The Houston Rockets selected Smith with the 3rd overall pick, adding a potential franchise cornerstone to their young core. His shooting ability and defensive potential offered immense promise, and the Rockets were confident that he would develop into a star player. As he embarked on his NBA journey, the expectations were high for Smith to become a key contributor. His shooting prowess and defensive capabilities could potentially transform the Rockets into a competitive team.

Shaedon Sharpe: The Enigmatic Talent

Shaedon Sharpe was one of the most intriguing prospects in the 2022 NBA Draft. His limited game experience and immense potential made him a high-risk, high-reward pick. Sharpe enrolled at the University of Kentucky in January 2022 but did not play any games, making him a mystery to many scouts. Despite his lack of college experience, Sharpe's talent was undeniable. He was a consensus five-star recruit known for his explosive athleticism, scoring ability, and immense potential. His performances in high school and on the AAU circuit showcased his ability to dominate games with his athleticism and scoring prowess.

Sharpe's greatest strength is his athleticism. He is an explosive leaper with incredible speed and agility. His athleticism allows him to finish above the rim with ease and create highlight-reel plays. He is also a capable scorer, with a smooth jump shot and the ability to attack the basket. Defensively, Sharpe has the potential to be a disruptive force. His athleticism and length allow him to guard multiple positions, and his shot-blocking ability makes him a deterrent for opposing offenses. However, his lack of experience and defensive awareness were seen as areas for improvement. The Portland Trail Blazers selected Sharpe with the 7th overall pick, taking a gamble on his immense potential. His athleticism and scoring ability offered immense promise, and the Blazers were confident that they could develop him into a star player. As he transitioned to the NBA, the expectations were tempered by his lack of experience. However, his talent was undeniable, and the Blazers were hopeful that he would quickly adapt to the professional game.

Dyson Daniels: The Versatile Guard

Dyson Daniels entered the 2022 NBA Draft as a versatile and skilled guard with a unique background. Playing for the NBA G League Ignite, Daniels showcased his ability to impact the game in multiple ways. His combination of size, ball-handling skills, and defensive prowess made him an attractive prospect for NBA teams. During his time with the Ignite, Daniels averaged 11.3 points, 5.9 rebounds, 4.4 assists, and 1.9 steals per game. His performances demonstrated his ability to contribute in all facets of the game. Daniels' greatest strength is his versatility. At 6'7", he possesses the size and ball-handling skills to play multiple positions in the backcourt. He is a capable scorer, with a solid jump shot and the ability to attack the basket. He is also an excellent passer, using his court vision and decision-making skills to create scoring opportunities for his teammates.

Defensively, Daniels is a disruptive force. His size and length allow him to guard multiple positions, and his defensive instincts make him a valuable asset on that end of the floor. He is also a solid rebounder, using his size and positioning to secure boards. While Daniels is a versatile player, he entered the NBA with areas for improvement. Improving his consistency as a shooter and developing a more reliable three-point shot were seen as key areas for his growth. The New Orleans Pelicans selected Daniels with the 8th overall pick, adding a versatile and skilled guard to their roster. His ability to impact the game in multiple ways offered immense promise, and the Pelicans were confident that he would quickly adapt to the professional game.

Bennedict Mathurin: The Confident Scorer

Bennedict Mathurin was one of the most confident and dynamic scorers in the 2022 NBA Draft. His combination of athleticism, shooting ability, and fearless mentality made him a highly coveted prospect. During his sophomore year at the University of Arizona, Mathurin averaged 17.7 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game. His performances earned him Pac-12 Player of the Year honors and solidified his status as a lottery pick. Mathurin's greatest strength is his scoring ability. He is a confident shooter from beyond the arc, with a quick release and excellent range. He is also a capable scorer off the dribble, using his athleticism and ball-handling skills to get to the basket.

One of Mathurin's most impressive attributes is his mentality. He plays with a fearless and aggressive style, always looking to attack the basket and create scoring opportunities. His confidence and competitive spirit make him a valuable asset on any team. Defensively, Mathurin is a solid contributor. He is not an elite athlete, but he uses his size and strength to disrupt opponents and contest shots. Improving his defensive awareness and positioning were seen as key areas for his development. The Indiana Pacers selected Mathurin with the 6th overall pick, adding a dynamic scorer to their young core. His shooting ability and aggressive mentality offered immense promise, and the Pacers were confident that he would quickly adapt to the professional game. As he transitioned to the NBA, the expectations were high for Mathurin to become a key contributor. His scoring prowess and competitive spirit could potentially transform the Pacers into a competitive team.

The 2022 NBA Draft was filled with talented prospects, each with their unique skills and potential. Ochai Agbaji's shooting, Jaden Ivey's athleticism, Jalen Duren's strength, Keegan Murray's scoring, Jabari Smith Jr.'s shooting, Shaedon Sharpe's athleticism, Dyson Daniels' versatility, and Bennedict Mathurin's scoring ability made them all valuable additions to their respective teams. As these young players continue to develop and hone their skills, the NBA is sure to witness some exciting performances in the years to come.