NBA Draft 2022: Final mock draft predictions of all 58 picks
26. Houston Rockets – Wendell Moore – (Duke Blue Devils)
For a team as young as Houston, building up and fostering chemistry is just as important as loading up with talent. So why not use the team’s third 1st round pick on Banchero’s teammate in Moore? He’s a 6’5 guard that led Duke in assists despite playing at the wing and has the all-around capability that’ll make him a solid rotational piece.
The Rockets can have Moore as another playmaker in the lineup to take pressure off Porter Jr. to run the offense. And his familiarity with Banchero could help with the team’s overall offense. As long as he avoids those bad outings that caused him to get benched as a sophomore, Moore can make it into the rotation.
27. Miami Heat – Tyty Washington (Kentucky Wildcats)
The 6’3 combo guard did have to take a lesser role this past season, due to Sahvir Wheeler needing the ball in his hands and National Player of the Year Oscar Tshiebwe taking a massive role in the offense. But that could work in a team’s favor, as Washington could be a steal in this draft. He’s a good shooter, capable playmaker, and showed that he can take over an offense late.
A lot of eyes were on Kyle Lowry and his struggles in the playoffs that including injuries and a showing of age. And with Victor Oladipo still coming back from a serious injury himself, Miami would do well to get a point guard at some point for some guaranteed insurance both short and long-term.
28. Golden State Warriors – Christian Braun (Kansas Jayhawks)
The reigning NBA champions have few needs as you would think so. They have a trio of lottery picks (Moses Moody, James Wiseman, Jonathan Kuminga) that will get even bigger roles in the future, besides the star trio of Steph Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green. Their biggest needs would be either another ball-handler or another wing that can score.
Braun had a breakout campaign for Kansas last season and showed that he can produce from deep and going inside. He’s a very good athlete and capable shooter that doesn’t have the highest ceiling but does have the talent to be part of the rotation.