13. Charlotte Hornets — Mark Williams, Duke
It’s been a major need for the Charlotte Hornets to address the center position. They drafted Kai Jones last year but drafting a big with more size could help. Mark Williams is a legitimate 7-footer with a 7-foot-6.5 wingspan. He could step in and fortify a weak frontcourt and prevent them from having to make a play for a center in the trade market.
14. Cleveland Cavaliers — Ousmane Dieng, NZ Breakers
There isn’t much for needs for the Cleveland Cavaliers. Going with a wing that has long-term upside would be a helpful option. They are already a competitive team with Darius Garland, Jarrett Allen, and Evan Mobley leading the way. They could be patient with the development of Ousman Dieng and get the best out of him long-term.
15. Charlotte Hornets — Ochai Agbaji, Kansas
If there’s one thing the Charlotte Hornets need, it’s defense. They have been held back by an inability to get stops and after taking Mark Williams to bring rim protection, they can go with a 3-and-D option on the perimeter. With the Cleveland Cavaliers being in position to select Ousmane Dieng, the Charlotte Hornets can go with Ochai Agbaji.
16. Atlanta Hawks — Malaki Branham, Ohio State
The Atlanta Hawks could benefit from adding cheaper 3-and-D options as they potentially look to reconfigure their roster with trades. Bogdan Bogdanovic and Kevin Huerter have been in NBA trade rumors at times given the size of their contracts. Malaki Branham could be a solid 3-and-D option next to develop next to Trae Young.
LATEST NBA NEWS AND DRAFT RUMORS: 2022 NBA Mock Draft: Early Look At Full First-Round Projections
17. Houston Rockets — TyTy Washington, Kentucky
If the Houston Rockets want to add an efficient guard prospect that can make an impact as a playmaker and shooter, then TyTy Washington would be an intriguing option to consider. He could be an intriguing long-term complement for Jalen Green. Also, Kevin Porter Jr. is set to reach restricted free agency next offseason unless he were to get a contract extension done this offseason.
LATEST NBA NEWS AND DRAFT RUMORS: 2022 NBA Mock Draft: Early Look At Full First-Round Projections
18. Chicago Bulls — Nikola Jovic, Mega Mozzart
The Chicago Bulls could use more talent at the four spot and Nikola Jovic would bring a lot of it. Patrick Williams is going to play a significant role due to his defensive versatility. However, it wouldn’t hurt to have an option that can enhance the offense when that’s more of a need. At 6-foot-11, he can do a little bit of everything and could enhance an already explosive scoring group.
