19. Minnesota Timberwolves — Blake Wesley, Notre Dame
The ideal outcome for the Minnesota Timberwolves would have been for TyTy Washington to still be on the board They can go with another guard prospect in Blake Wesley. He’s raw offensively but brings a lot of explosiveness as an athlete. If he can refine his skill-set, he could form quite a one-two punch next to Anthony Edwards long-term.
20. San Antonio Spurs — Tari Eason, LSU
With three selections in the first-round, the San Antonio Spurs can go a lot of different directions. They already took Jalen Duren with their first selection. Now, they’d add a versatile defender at the four in Tari Eason. The Spurs should have confidence in their ability to develop players in the shooting mechanics department and Eason will need a lot of work.
21. Denver Nuggets — Jalen Williams, Santa Clara
The Denver Nuggets could benefit from solidying their depth on the wing with whatever mechanisms they have at their disposal. Jalen Williams would be a solid option if he’s still available. He can play multiple positions and has some playmaking to his game. Next to Nikola Jokic and other dynamic players like Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr., he could certainly help.
22. Memphis Grizzlies — Kennedy Chandler, Tennessee
It’s going to be a challenge for the Memphis Grizzlies to retain Tyus Jones after how strong of a season he had. Taking a guard like Kennedy Chandler could be a benefit right away if Jones were to depart. He’s a bit undersized but has a skill-set that checks a lot of boxes. If Jones were to stay, the Grizzlies could be patient with Chandler’s development.
LATEST NBA NEWS AND DRAFT RUMORS: 2022 NBA Mock Draft: Early Look At Full First-Round Projections
23. Philadelphia 76ers — Jaden Hardy, G League Ignite
It’s not going to be easy to find a prospect capable of stepping in immediately and contributing to a title contender. The Philadelphia 76ers would be wise to go with long-term upside if they are unable to trade this pick packaged with Danny Green for a veteran 3-and-D wing. Jaden Hardy is a boom-or-bust prospect worth taking a chance on in the backcourt.
LATEST NBA NEWS AND DRAFT RUMORS: 2022 NBA Mock Draft: Early Look At Full First-Round Projections
24. Milwaukee Bucks — Walker Kessler, Auburn
With Brook Lopez set to turn 35 during the upcoming season, it wouldn’t hurt to take a chance on a center that can block shots. He’s an impressive rim protector, finisher, and has shown shooting ability. He’d be an intriguing option to have alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo and the versatile perimeter defenders in the rest of the unit.
