NBA Draft 2022: Draft grades for all 1st round pick selections

Jun 23, 2022; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Paolo Banchero (Duke) shakes hands with NBA commissioner Adam Silver after being selected as the number one overall pick by the Orlando Magic in the first round of the 2022 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /

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NBA Draft Dalen Terry David Banks-USA TODAY Sports /

16. Atlanta Hawks – SF AJ Griffin (Duke Blue Devils) – Draft Grade: A

There may be some defensive questions for Griffin but he did shoot 45% from three-point range in his lone season at Duke and is a 6’7 wing with real potential if fully healthy. Not only is he another shooter to play alongside Trae Young, but if Griffin can become a legit part of the rotation, they may not have to pay some of the other forwards on the team such as Bogdan Bogdanović and Deandre Hunter.

17. Houston Rockets – F Tari Eason (LSU Tigers) – Draft Grade: B

Drafting a player that plays the same position as your No. 3 pick (Jabari Smith) but Eason has the ability to play some at the five if need be. He’s an outstanding defender, something this Rockets’ roster desperately needs. If he can have an impact there, Houston will make sure Eason gets on the court.

18. Chicago Bulls – G Dalen Terry (Arizona Wildcats) Draft Grade: B+

Terry is a big guard that can defend anyone on the perimeter and has a growing offensive game. This pick has great value as Chicago doesn’t need much scoring. So adding an impact player that can make the rotation at No. 18 is great value and if Terry’s offense keeps growing, could become a gem.

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