Pippen Ain’t Easy’s 2022 NBA Mock Draft: Final two-round forecast
34. . G. Portland Trail Blazers. Dyson Daniels. 7. player
Dyson Daniels is one of the fastest-rising players up big boards around the league as he continues to impress scouts with his performance at the NBA Combine and in private workouts. Daniels projects to be a solid fundamental player with a high basketball IQ that consistently makes the right play. When it comes to passing ability and perimeter defense, Daniels is among the best guard in both aspects of this draft class.
Daniels could easily slide into a role with several teams and help impact the win column. In the same vein as NBA guards Tyus Jones and the aforementioned Haliburton, Daniels has the flexibility to adapt to a variety of scenarios. A potential pairing with superstar Damian Lillard certainly has to be among the most desirable outcomes for Daniels.
If the Trail Blazers want a player that can help them win now—and decide not to trade the pick—Daniels will be among the best options available at No.7 overall.
8. player. 69. . SG. New Orleans Pelicans. Bennedict Mathurin
Bennedict Mathurin won over the hearts of many fans this past season as he stormed through the collegiate level and helped the Arizona Wildcats post an incredible record of 33-4. This mark would be the best in team history since 2015, and Arizona would go on to make another Sweet 16 appearance.
Mathurin averaged 17.7 and 5.6 rebounds per game for the Wildcats while drilling 36.9% of his three-point attempts. His calling card came from inside the arc, however, as Bennedict’s slow and precise style of play granted him open mid-range and easy layup opportunities as he dissected opposing defenses.
For a Pelicans team that’s absolutely stacked with talent right now, there won’t be a ton of pressure for Mathurin to come in and immediately contribute. But if he can come in and provide a presence similar to Kentavious Caldwell-Pope off the bench, there will be a spot for Bennedict in the NBA for a long time.