2022 NBA Mock Draft 2.0: Who gets the star big men at the top?

Jabari Smith’s floor may be as high as any of the top prospects in this class and it comes down to two things — his jumper and his defense. At 6-foot-10 with smooth, fluid mobility, Smith can defend a variety of positions and fill a variety of defensive roles, everything from taking wings at the point of attack to operating as a weakside shot-blocker. He averaged more than two blocks and two steals per 100 possessions and was able to make an impact on the defensive glass as well. He’s also an exceptional jumpshooter who nailed 42.8 percent of his 10.8 3-point attempts per 100 possessions and is comfortable pulling up and shooting off movement. Even if this turns out to be the extent of his NBA contributions, he could be incredibly valuable as a complementary piece.

But Smith also has considerable upside as an offensive creator, and that’s what could make him a star. He relied on his jumper far too often as a freshman and there were legitimate concerns about his propensity for pulling up instead of getting all the way to the basket. He also has a way to go as a passer, reading what’s in front of him and manipulating the defense on behalf of himself and his teammates. But when you can simply shoot over the top of everyone, some of those complex actions aren’t necessary. If he continues to develop as a creator and a scorer, he could be one of the best two-way players in the league.