Pippen Ain’t Easy’s 2022 NBA Mock Draft: Final two-round forecast
. PF. Minnesota Timberwolves. E.J. Liddell. 19. player. 86
E.J. Liddell is a name that has received a lot of traction with the Bulls, and for good reason. Liddell did it all for the Buckeyes, averaging 19.4 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 2.6 blocks per contest as a junior. His well-rounded game will likely translate very well to the NBA as he can assume an off-ball role and still impact winning games.
Many have compared E.J. to a P.J. Tucker-type player, and not just because they share acronyms for first names. You may not get a star player by drafting Liddell, but what you will get is a dependable shooter, a stout interior defender, and a willing passer that wants nothing more than to win games. For a Timberwolves team that just got their first real taste of the postseason and will soon want more, Liddell is a fantastic fit.
SF. San Antonio Spurs. Jalen Williams. 20. player. 29.
If Jalen Williams is no longer on the board when the 20th pick rolls around on Thursday, I won’t be surprised. Several teams should be interested in his services, including the Bulls. But if Jalen Williams is still on the board after the 20th pick is made, I will be shocked.
Considered a second-round talent by many just a few months ago, Williams has vaulted up draft boards everywhere through his excellent play for Santa Clara. Averaging 18 points per game on 39.6% shooting from deep, Williams fits the archetype every team is looking for in today’s NBA. If he does manage to slip to No. 20, San Antonio shouldn’t hesitate to add the most promising wing left on the board.