Analyzing the projected top four picks in the 2022 NBA Draft

LAS VEGAS, NV - NOVEMBER 26: Chet Holmgren #34 of the Gonzaga Bulldogs reacts after being called for a foul against Paolo Banchero #5 of the Duke Blue Devils during the Continental Tire Challenge at T-Mobile Arena on November 26, 2021 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Duke won 84-81. (Photo by Lance King/Getty Images) /

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AUBURN, AL – JANUARY 19: Jabari Smith #10 of the Auburn Tigers sets up a shot against the Georgia Bulldogs in the second half at Auburn Arena on January 19, 2022 in Auburn, Alabama, Breaking down the projected top four picks in the 2022 NBA Draft. (Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images) /

Analyzing the projected top four picks in the 2022 NBA Draft: Jabari Smith Jr.

The third player I have is Auburn’s sharpshooting sniper Jabari Smith Jr. He sits at a legit 6-’10, 220 lbs with a beautiful looking stroke and soft touch on his jumper.

He doesn’t have much creative ability as of now due to his lack of an elite handle, but he will be able to be an amazing spot-up shooter from Day 1 in the NBA. He brings a contagious, positive, competitive attitude that rubs through the whole team.

Smith also is an amazingly versatile defender who’s laterally quick enough to defend guards and big enough to defend fours. And if he adds more muscle over time, he’ll be able to defend small-ball fives as well.

He was one of the best big man shooters ever, shooting 43% from three as a true freshman. His per-40-minute averages were 23.6 points, 10.3 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 1.5 steals, and1.4 blocks per game.

Smith will have to develop his ball-handling and playmaking ability to reach his sky-high ceiling as a player, but with his work ethic and feisty competitiveness, I believe he will.

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