2022 NBA Mock Draft 1.0: First look at entire first round

DURHAM, NC - JANUARY 15: Trevor Keels #1 and Paolo Banchero #5 of the Duke Blue Devils look on prior to their game against the North Carolina State Wolfpack at Cameron Indoor Stadium on January 15, 2022 in Durham, North Carolina. Duke won 88-73. (Photo by Lance King/Getty Images)
DURHAM, NC - JANUARY 15: Trevor Keels #1 and Paolo Banchero #5 of the Duke Blue Devils look on prior to their game against the North Carolina State Wolfpack at Cameron Indoor Stadium on January 15, 2022 in Durham, North Carolina. Duke won 88-73. (Photo by Lance King/Getty Images)
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2022 NBA Mock Draft
DURHAM, NORTH CAROLINA – JANUARY 08: A.J. Griffin #21 of the Duke Blue Devils reacts after making a three-point basket against the Miami Hurricanes during the first half of their game at Cameron Indoor Stadium on January 08, 2022 in Durham, North Carolina, 2022 NBA Mock Draft. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images)

2022 NBA Mock Draft: 4. AJ Griffin, Duke

This may be seen as a bit risky at this point, but AJ Griffin truly is good enough to take the risk. The Oklahoma City Thunder are in this for the long haul and are entering with three first-round picks, including two currently in the lottery. Griffin’s health is the only thing keeping him from being in the conversation for the top overall pick today, but that could become moot as he continues to shine.

2022 NBA Mock Draft: 5. Benedict Mathurin, Arizona

Predicting what the Indiana Pacers will choose to pursue is nearly impossible, considering they have made everyone on the current roster some level of available.

However, should one of their big men remain, they will be looking to compete before long. Benedict Mathurin is ready to step in right away and is an absolute dream 3&D wing with the potential to be much more. He is a crazy athlete whose game is evolving in front of our eyes and would be the type of talent Indiana is dreaming of.

2022 NBA Mock Draft: 6. Jaden Ivey, Purdue

Jaden Ivey being on the board at six would be a dream outcome for the New Orleans Pelicans. He is a dynamic rim-attacker and the best point guard prospect in the draft. His three-point shot is coming along and he could be the point-of-attack defender the Pels need to change their identity that side of the ball for them.