8 players from the 2022 NBA Draft class who will outperform their selection

8. Picked 17th in the 2022 NBA Draft: Tari Eason

The way that Tari Eason plays basketball is genuinely beautiful for anyone who loves players committed to competing on defense. One of the most impactful event creators of his class, Eason stalks passing lanes like a madman and obliterated errant shot attempts near the rim. He’s a hustler, hard worker, shot stuffer and overall impact player for the Houston Rockets.

With all of this in mind, Eason also has a long way to go before coming close to his full potential. The product of Seattle, WA is a streaky shooter and inconsistent ball-handler at this stage of his development. Many suggested this would stunt him at the next level, but his play during Summer League proved that he’s able to do more than was shown coming off the bench at LSU.

Eason averaged 17.2 points, 10.4 rebounds, 1.8 steals and a block over five games. He’s as close to a positionless defender as you’ll find in the draft, relentlessly poking and prodding at the basketball to put his assignment in uncomfortable positions. His best offense is his defense, which he uses to get out in transition and finish plays above the rim.

Houston obviously has a knack for finding talent outside of the lottery in the first round.