Revisiting the 2022 NBA Draft: Grading Every Lottery Pick Two Years Later
The 2022 NBA Draft has already produced a mix of budding stars, solid role players, and a few disappointments. While draft night is filled with excitement and projections, the true measure of a pick’s value only becomes clear after seeing how well they perform on the court and fit within their respective teams. Two years later, the fog is beginning to clear on the lottery picks from that draft class. Let’s revisit each pick and grade them based on their development and impact up to this point.
1. Orlando Magic – Paolo Banchero: A+
The Magic’s decision to select Paolo Banchero first overall raised a few eyebrows on draft night, as there was no clear consensus on who should go first. Two years later, it’s safe to say Orlando made the right choice. Banchero has blossomed into a legitimate franchise cornerstone, earning an All-Star selection in just his second season. His size, strength, and footwork make him a nightmare for defenders, and though his three-point shot is still a work in progress, it’s clear that he has the potential to become one of the league’s most lethal scorers for years to come.
2. Oklahoma City Thunder – Chet Holmgren: A
After missing his entire rookie season due to injury, Chet Holmgren made his debut in his second year and immediately proved why he was such a highly-touted prospect. Despite the year off, Holmgren didn’t miss a beat, quickly establishing himself as one of the NBA’s best interior defenders. He ranked in the top five in blocks per game and contributed 17 points and 8 rebounds per night, all while stretching the floor with his three-point shooting. His presence has transformed the Thunder into a formidable young team capable of competing with anyone, evidenced by their first-place finish in the Western Conference.
3. Houston Rockets – Jabari Smith Jr.: B
Jabari Smith Jr. came into the league with a reputation as a versatile defender and an elite shooter, but his offensive game hasn’t translated as smoothly to the NBA as many expected. Two years into his career, Smith is more of a glue guy for the Rockets, excelling defensively but struggling to create his own shot or consistently knock down jumpers. His scoring numbers have only marginally improved, and his shooting efficiency is hovering around league average. While he remains a valuable role player, expectations were higher for a third overall pick, thus a B-grade feels appropriate.
4. Sacramento Kings – Keegan Murray: B+
Keegan Murray had a strong rookie season, showcasing his sharpshooting ability from day one. However, his shooting percentages dipped in his second year, bringing him closer to league average in terms of efficiency. Still, Murray has shown that he can be a valuable floor spacer and defender for the Kings, and his potential as a high-volume shooter keeps his grade at a solid B+. If he can regain his rookie form from beyond the arc, Murray could become a key cog in Sacramento’s future success.
5. Detroit Pistons – Jaden Ivey: B-
Jaden Ivey has had flashes of brilliance in his first two years with the Pistons, but his role within the team remains uncertain. His scoring dipped slightly from his rookie year, and his fit alongside Cade Cunningham is still a work in progress. Ivey’s efficiency has also been an issue, and the Pistons have struggled to find a consistent role for him. While his raw talent is undeniable, his development has been slower than expected, warranting a B- grade for now.
6. Indiana Pacers – Bennedict Mathurin: B
Bennedict Mathurin started his NBA career with a bang, quickly establishing himself as a potent scoring threat. However, as his rookie season progressed, his production began to normalize, and he’s now settled into a role more suited for a sixth man. Mathurin’s scoring ability is still impressive, but his efficiency can be streaky. He’s a reliable 15-20 point-per-game scorer with the potential for big nights, but his overall impact is limited. As a mid-lottery pick, a B grade reflects his solid but not spectacular start to his career.
7. Portland Trail Blazers – Shaedon Sharpe: B
Shaedon Sharpe was one of the biggest mysteries of the 2022 draft, having never played a college game. His raw athleticism and scoring potential intrigued scouts, and two years in, Sharpe has shown glimpses of the star many hoped he could become. Unfortunately, injuries have limited his ability to make a full impact, and he’s yet to consistently produce at a high level. However, the flashes of greatness are there, and with time, Sharpe could still emerge as a standout player. For now, a B grade seems fair.
8. New Orleans Pelicans – Dyson Daniels: C
Dyson Daniels was drafted for his versatility and playmaking potential, but two years in, his offensive game remains underdeveloped. While he can provide solid defense and secondary playmaking, his lack of scoring ability has limited his impact. He was traded to the Hawks as part of the deal to acquire Dejounte Murray, and his future in Atlanta is uncertain. Given the expectations of a top-10 pick, Daniels’ performance so far earns him a C grade.
9. San Antonio Spurs – Jeremy Sochan: C+
Jeremy Sochan has been utilized in a variety of roles by the Spurs, including as a point forward at times. While his versatility is impressive, he hasn’t truly excelled in any one area. Sochan is a good defender, but his offensive game is still a work in progress, with inefficient scoring and limited shooting range. His all-around ability keeps his grade slightly above average at a C+, but he’ll need to refine his skills to make a bigger impact moving forward.
10. Washington Wizards – Johnny Davis: F
Two years in, Johnny Davis has been the biggest disappointment of the 2022 draft. Once thought to be one of the class’s best natural scorers, Davis has spent the majority of his time in the G-League. When given NBA minutes, he’s been inefficient and has struggled to find his footing. The Wizards appear ready to move on from him, making this pick a clear F.
11. Oklahoma City Thunder – Ousmane Dieng: D
The Thunder selected Ousmane Dieng as a long-term project, but two years later, it’s clear that he’s been left behind in their rotation. Oklahoma City’s rapid rise to contention means they no longer have the luxury of developing raw talent like Dieng, and his lack of progress has left him on the outside looking in. He still has time to grow, but for now, a D grade reflects his struggles.
12. Oklahoma City Thunder – Jalen Williams: A+
Jalen Williams has been one of the biggest steals of the draft, emerging as a near All-Star talent for the Thunder. His two-way ability, three-point shooting (43%), and efficient 19 points per game have made him a crucial part of Oklahoma City’s success. With his skill set, Williams has the potential to continue improving, making him one of the best picks of the draft.
13. Detroit Pistons – Jalen Duren: B
Jalen Duren has been a bright spot for the Pistons, providing elite athleticism and rebounding for a center. Offensively, he has shown good touch around the basket, and his role as a lob threat makes him valuable in the pick-and-roll. However, Duren’s defense still needs improvement to reach his full potential. For now, he earns a B grade with the potential for more.
14. Cleveland Cavaliers – Ochai Agbaji: C-
Ochai Agbaji was expected to be one of the draft’s top shooters, but two years in, his shooting has regressed significantly. After shooting 35% from three as a rookie, Agbaji shot just 29% in his second year, which is concerning for a player who doesn’t offer much else. If his shooting doesn’t improve, Agbaji could struggle to carve out a long-term role in the NBA.
In conclusion, the 2022 NBA Draft class has been a mixed bag so far. While some picks like Banchero and Holmgren have lived up to their hype, others have struggled to find their footing. As these players continue to develop, it will be fascinating to see how their careers unfold and which teams ultimately made the best decisions.
