2022 NBA Draft: Ranking the top 5 players at each position

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NBA Draft prospect Mark Williams (Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports) /

Centers

1. Chet Holmgren, Gonzaga

Strengths: a 7-foot point guard, insane handles for his size, excellent jump shot, coordination that we haven’t seen at his height other, 7-foot-6 wingspan, great rebounder, insane shot-blocker with almost four blocked shots a game, tough for his size, and unbelievable potential.

Weaknesses: frail frame, struggles against ball-dominant players, needs better ball security; with strength gain, it should improve, and he needs to become more aggressive on both ends.

2. Jalen Duren, Memphis

Strengths: Huge physical presence, Insane defensive potential, only 18 years old, offensive upside, 7-foot-5 wingspan, incredible shot-blocker, solid midrange shooter, and elite athleticism that few big men possess.

Weaknesses: Raw athlete, poor free-throw percentage, and needs to be more consistent shooting, but that should improve with experience in the league.

3. Mark Williams, Duke

Strengths: ACC defensive player of the year, freak athlete, diverse skill set on offense and defense, we have not seen everything he has because of his role for Duke, elite lob target at 7-foot-1 with a 7-foot-5 wingspan, and will become a double-double machine.

Weaknesses: Switching off to other players defensively, poor shooter but has a nice stroke that should continue to improve, not overly aggressive offensively until he realizes his full potential.

4. Walker Kessler, Auburn

Strengths: Great rim protection, solid pick-n-roll defense, 4.6 blocks a game, controls the paint well, great defensive mentality, very long, hustles on defense, contests pullups, can be used in the pick-n-roll well as he can dunk from standing.

Weaknesses: Very poor jump shot consistency, poor shot selection, confident, but very inconsistent. He is very slow, so players with handles can get by him effortlessly. He fouls a ton because of his large body and lack of speed to adjust in time.

5. Christian Koloko, Arizona

Strengths: Stands 7-foot-1, solid free-throw shooter for a big, versatile defender who can hold his own at each position, averages nearly three blocks per game, potentially the best defensive big in the draft.

Weaknesses: Offense is not his strength; 235 lbs is light for his size but can become much stronger. He does not have enough potential offensively, can’t shoot well, and struggles to finish around the rim.