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

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NBA Draft prospect AJ Griffin (Photo by Handout/NCAA Photos via Getty Images) /

Small forwards

1. AJ Griffin, Duke

Strengths: Solid size, 7-foot wingspan, elite 3-point shooter averaging 45% with a beautiful stroke, drives the paint well when aggressive, he keeps control of the ball well without the risk of turnovers, upside in other ways on offense could be fantastic.

Weaknesses: Lacks speed and natural aggressive nature, we have only seen his shooting as he was Duke’s shooting specialist, and we have yet to see what he offers other than shooting, so teams could be concerned with what else he could offer.

2. Bennedict Mathurin, OSU

Strengths: Excellent 3-point shooter, catch and shoots very well, passing upside, quick and very athletic.

Weaknesses: Overall defense needs work, leaves guys wide open at times, and handles need improvement in order to generate space for his shot.

3. Ousmane Dieng, NZ

Strengths: Imposing defender, locks onto his assignment and will always cause a disruption, solid playmaking potential, impressive passing ability, selfless player, good vision, and very creative with the ball.

Weaknesses: He’s young, so he needs to focus on gaining some strength, so he doesn’t get pushed around, he needs to bring down the fouls, and he must be more consistent on the offensive end to unlock his overall potential.

4. Nikola Jovic, Mega Mozzart

Strengths: Solid scorer, creates space to hit a three without issue, can drive the lane well, always moving to ensure a solid catch and shoot, very impressive passer, high-level basketball IQ, good offensive rebounder

Weaknesses: Can’t go left, which is a considerable issue, mediocre defender, prolonged reactions to quick players, needs to get much stronger to keep up with the NBA.

5. Kendall Brown, Baylor

Strengths: Quick, great defender already who can guard multiple positions, outstanding athlete, good off-ball cutter.

Weaknesses: Poor overall offensive game, struggles to shoot, poor jump shot form, not sure if his jumper will improve, gets left open because of his poor shooting.