The 2022 NBA Draft features several promising prospects, with three standout big men leading the way. The draft lottery on May 17 in Chicago will determine the order of the first 14 picks.

The Houston Rockets, Orlando Magic, and Detroit Pistons each have a 14% chance at the first overall pick. The Oklahoma City Thunder (12.5%) and Indiana Pacers (10.5%) round out the top five odds.

Top Prospects:

Paolo Banchero (Duke) - 6'10" power forward averaging 17.1 PPG and 7.7 RPG

• NBA-ready athlete with strong interior scoring and playmaking abilities
• Projected top-3 pick before college season began

Chet Holmgren (Gonzaga) - 7'0" center averaging 14.2 PPG, 9.6 RPG, 3.6 BPG

• Unique prospect with excellent shooting (41.2% from 3) and shot-blocking
• Needs to add strength to his 195-pound frame

Jabari Smith Jr. (Auburn) - 6'10" power forward averaging 17.1 PPG

• Elite shooter (43.6% from 3) with defensive versatility
• High floor prospect who can impact both ends

Jaden Ivey (Purdue) - 6'4" shooting guard averaging 17.2 PPG

• Dynamic scorer and playmaker
• Could be first guard selected despite big man-heavy draft

Mock Draft Predictions (Top 4):

1. Rockets - Paolo Banchero
2. Magic - Jabari Smith Jr.
3. Pistons - Jaden Ivey
4. Thunder - Chet Holmgren

The exact order will depend on lottery results, but these four prospects are expected to be the first players selected on June 23 at Barclays Center.

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