NBA Mock Draft 2022: Jaden Ivey is coveted; final lottery predictions

2 of 16

NBA Draft prospect Jabari Smith (The Montgomery Advertiser) /

1. Orlando Magic – Jabari Smith, F, Auburn

Objectively speaking, the Orlando Magic truly has three options with the No. 1 pick. However, the decisions (if it hasn’t been made yet) will come down to either Jabari Smith or Chet Holmgren. Essentially, the Magic must decide between a never-seen-before prospect in Holmgren or the “safe” pick in Smith.

Ultimately, I believe that the Magic will go with Smith and not just because he’s viewed as the safe pick. Instead, I not only believe that Smith is the better fit but that Orlando should be pursuing the prospect that has the best chance to develop into an alpha on the offensive end. That’s Smith.

For as unique as a prospect that Holmgren is, I don’t think anyone believes that he can be a No. 1 option ever in the NBA. That’s the ultimate decider for the Magic in this situation. I’d be shocked if Jabari Smith isn’t the No. 1 pick.