NBA Mock Draft 4.0: Chet Holmgren rises to No. 1; Paolo Banchero falls

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Jabari Smith (Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports) /

2. Houston Rockets – Jabari Smith, F, Auburn

There’s no question that Jabari Smith will be selected in the top 3 of the 2022 NBA Draft. Something drastic has to happen during pre-draft workouts for him not to be selected high. I have him dropping a spot to No. 2 in our latest draft.

The Houston Rockets will get a player that would fit next to their young flurry of guards and one, presumably, that would fit next to Christian Wood. Smith is arguably one of the most NBA-ready players at the top of this class and would be an immediate contributor.

Smith will likely need some time to finish developing as a prospect, but the Rockets would be a great fit for him. He’ll have a chance to grow, learn, and blossom with an organization that prioritizes winning.