Revisiting the 2022 NBA Draft: Two Years Later

At the end of the 2023 NBA season, a comprehensive review of the 2022 NBA Draft lottery picks was warranted. This analysis is crucial for evaluating how players have adapted to their new teams and how their performances have aligned with expectations set during the draft. As time passes, the clarity regarding the effectiveness of these selections increases, and this assessment aims to grade each lottery pick from two years ago based on their performance and contributions to their respective teams.

1. Paolo Banchero (Orlando Magic) – Grade: A+

The Orlando Magic selected Paolo Banchero as the first overall pick in the 2022 draft, a choice that has paid off significantly. Banchero has established himself as a legitimate franchise cornerstone, earning an All-Star nod in his second season. Initially, there was uncertainty surrounding his selection, but he has quickly validated the Magic’s choice. His combination of size, strength, and skill allows him to dominate offensively, particularly around the basket. With a continued improvement in his three-point shooting, Banchero is poised to remain a top scorer in the league.

2. Chet Holmgren (Oklahoma City Thunder) – Grade: A

Chet Holmgren, selected second overall, missed his rookie season due to injury but made a remarkable comeback in his second year. Holmgren’s defensive prowess was evident as he ranked among the league’s best in blocks per game. Offensively, he averaged 17 points and eight rebounds while displaying the ability to stretch the floor as a three-point shooter. His return has been pivotal for the Thunder, who finished as the top seed in the Western Conference, showcasing the depth of talent in their young roster.

3. Jabari Smith Jr. (Houston Rockets) – Grade: B

The Houston Rockets picked Jabari Smith Jr. with the third overall selection. While he has demonstrated versatility as a defender, his offensive game has not developed as hoped. Smith Jr.’s scoring did not see substantial improvement between his rookie and sophomore seasons, and his shooting efficiency has been below average. At this stage, he appears more as a reliable role player than a star, leading to a B grade, reflecting the potential he has yet to fully realize.

4. Keegan Murray (Sacramento Kings) – Grade: B+

The Sacramento Kings selected Keegan Murray fourth overall. His rookie season was promising, marked by impressive shooting efficiency. However, in his second year, he regressed to a more average level. Despite this dip, Murray has shown the ability to be a high-level shooter, and his performances indicate he can contribute significantly to the Kings’ success. Thus, he earns a B+, reflecting his potential as a key player in the lineup.

5. Jaden Ivey (Detroit Pistons) – Grade: B-

The Detroit Pistons chose Jaden Ivey fifth overall, and his career so far has been a mixed bag. While Ivey has showcased moments of brilliance, his role within the team remains inconsistent. His scoring average dipped slightly in his second season, and he has struggled with efficiency. The fit alongside fellow guard Cade Cunningham is not ideal, complicating his development. A B- grade reflects both his flashes of promise and the challenges he faces.

6. Benedict Mathurin (Indiana Pacers) – Grade: B

Selected sixth by the Indiana Pacers, Benedict Mathurin began his rookie season with impressive scoring displays. However, his production has settled back to more average levels, indicating a degree of inconsistency. Mathurin appears best suited for a sixth-man role, providing a scoring punch off the bench. While he may not reach superstar status, he can still contribute effectively, earning a B grade for his efforts.

7. Shaedon Sharpe (Portland Trail Blazers) – Grade: B

Shaedon Sharpe was selected seventh overall, and his development has been intriguing. Despite being a mystery due to not playing in college, Sharpe’s athleticism and scoring ability have flashed potential. However, injuries have limited his growth, and consistency remains a concern. His talent is undeniable, but he needs to prove he can deliver on that potential regularly to earn a higher grade.

8. Dyson Daniels (New Orleans Pelicans) – Grade: C

The New Orleans Pelicans took Dyson Daniels with the eighth pick. While Daniels is a capable role player with secondary playmaking and defensive skills, his offensive game lacks development. His trade to the Atlanta Hawks indicates the Pelicans’ shift in strategy and suggests they may not have seen the upside they expected from him. His grade of C reflects his current standing as a utility player with room for growth.

9. Jeremy Sochan (San Antonio Spurs) – Grade: C+

Selected ninth by the San Antonio Spurs, Jeremy Sochan has had a varied career thus far. While he brings defensive versatility and a bit of everything to the court, he has not excelled in any particular area. His efficiency on offense has been lacking, and while he has shown promise as a defender, he needs to refine his game to become a more impactful player. Thus, a C+ grade seems fitting for his current contributions.

10. Johnny Davis (Washington Wizards) – Grade: F

The Washington Wizards selected Johnny Davis with the tenth pick, but his performance has been disappointing. Davis was expected to be a dynamic scoring talent, yet he has struggled significantly, spending considerable time in the G League. His inefficiency in the NBA has raised concerns about his future, leading to an F grade, indicating the Wizards’ likely disappointment in this selection.

11. Usman Garuba (New York Knicks) – Grade: D

Usman Garuba, drafted by the Knicks and later traded to the Thunder, has not made a significant impact since his selection. He was viewed as a raw talent, but with the Thunder’s rapid development into a contender, Garuba has struggled to find his footing. His grade of D reflects the lack of growth and opportunity to prove himself within a competitive roster.

12. Jalen Williams (Oklahoma City Thunder) – Grade: A+

The Thunder made an excellent selection with the twelfth pick, choosing Jalen Williams, who has emerged as a borderline All-Star. Williams showcases two-way capabilities, efficient scoring, and a high basketball IQ. Averaging nearly 19 points per game with impressive shooting percentages, he has played a vital role in the Thunder’s success and deserves an A+ for his contributions.

13. Jalen Duren (Detroit Pistons) – Grade: B

With the thirteenth pick, the Pistons selected Jalen Duren, an athletic center with strong rebounding skills and offensive touch. Duren has shown promise as a role player, though he needs to improve defensively to reach his potential as a starting center. His performance thus far warrants a solid B grade, reflecting his ongoing development.

14. Ochai Agbaji (Cleveland Cavaliers) – Grade: C-

The Cavaliers selected Ochai Agbaji with the fourteenth pick, trading him to the Jazz on draft night. Initially viewed as a premier sharpshooter, Agbaji’s shooting percentages have regressed, particularly in his second season. Given his minimal impact elsewhere, a C- grade highlights the struggles he has faced in meeting expectations.

Conclusion

The evaluation of the 2022 NBA Draft reveals a diverse range of performances among the lottery picks. While some have blossomed into stars, others are still navigating the challenges of professional basketball. As these players continue their careers, ongoing assessments will be essential in determining their long-term impacts in the league.