2022 NBA Mock Draft 1.0: Who will shine during March Madness?

Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports /
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Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports
Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports /

Chet Holmgren. 1. player. 169. . Big. Houston Rockets

Holmgren is an utterly unique prospect — an elite, 7-foot-1 shot-blocker who also runs the floor like a gazelle, can create off the dribble and shoots 41.2 percent from beyond the arc. If Holmgren had a bit more bulk (he’s listed at just 195 pounds) and looked a bit sturdier, he’d be the clear No. 1 pick. But because he looks like he’d blow away in a stiff breeze, teams may take a more pessimistic view of how his incredible high skill level may translate at the next level.

The Rockets have the luxury of being able to focus on Holmgren’s upside and the things he does best. Their picks from last year have performed very well and would make a clean fit with Holmgren, offsetting each other’s weaknesses. Alperen Sengun has the strength to defend bigger frontcourt players but isn’t much of a rim protector. Pairing him with Holmgren gives the Rockets someone do deal with burly post players and someone to clog up the paint. Holmgren, Sengun and Green would also give the team an excellent base of offensive skill, complementing each other with passing, shooting and creation ability. Banchero or Smith would fit for the Rockets as well but Holmgren could be the cleanest fit and the best player available.

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