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

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NBA Draft prospect Jabari Smith (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /

Power forwards

1. Paolo Banchero, Duke

Strengths: Can do it all offensively, a physical freak, high-level basketball IQ, massive 6-foot-10 250lbs, create shots and very finesse with the ball, elite lane driver where no one can stop him, and nearly unstoppable with his overall offensive weapons when aggressive to the basket.

Weaknesses: Poor jumper, he is very inconsistent making shots, too selfless when trying to engage teammates, defensive inconsistency, lacks hustle on defense.

2. Jabari Smith, Auburn

Strengths: Can do everything, scorer from all areas on the floor, can guard all five positions, deep bag offensively, make space for clean looks to shoot, best natural scorer in this draft, very humble, elite perimeter defender,

Weaknesses: Can tend to turn the ball over, struggles to finish at the rim, doesn’t create much space when shooting, questionable shooting at the time, improve ball handling, inconsistent when guarding the rim

3. Keegan Murray, Iowa

Strengths: Nonstop motor, great defensive ability, excels in transition offense, excellent finisher, fearless offensively, gets to the rim with ease, very good with offensive rebounding, can score from anywhere.

Weaknesses: Not a great playmaker, great in transition but struggles to create at half-court, defensive awareness is a massive concern.

4. Tari Eason, LSU

Strengths: Very athletic, offensive upside, established defender, fearless, solid playmaking, natural feel for the game, very long and a nonstop motor, significant free throw percentage, hands always in the lane causing turnovers, elite defensive IQ

Weaknesses: Inconsistent shooting, offensive mistakes with playmaking, fouls a lot, turnovers of the ball.

5. E.J. Liddell, OSU

Strengths: Large man, strong player, good rim protector, improved shooter, very productive in college, solid decision-maker, decent rebounder, solid three-point shooter

Weaknesses: Low upside, concerning jump shot if it will translate, often is overlooked because his game may not translate to the NBA.