NBA Draft 2022: 5 prospects with All-Star potential

Feb 27, 2022; University Park, Pennsylvania, USA; Nebraska Cornhuskers guard Trey McGowens (2) dribbles the ball around the outside of Penn State Nittany Lions guard Dallion Johnson (23) during the second half at Bryce Jordan Center. Nebraska defeated Penn State 93-70. Mandatory Credit: Matthew OHaren-USA TODAY Sports /

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Mar 24, 2022; San Francisco, CA, USA; Gonzaga Bulldogs center Chet Holmgren (34) warms up before the game against the Arkansas Razorbacks in the semifinals of the West regional of the men’s college basketball NCAA Tournament at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports /

4. Chet Holmgren

If Smith doesn’t go No. 1 overall it’s a safe bet that Holmgren will assume that spot. He’s the true unicorn of this year’s draft class. Guys with Holmgren’s elite length, shot-blocking acumen and offensive polish don’t come around very often.

There are understandable concerns about Holmgren’s painfully thin frame, but there’s plenty of time for his body to fill out at the next level. He’s going to be pushed around at times during his rookie season but that shouldn’t materially impact his long-term growth as a player.

Holmgren oozes upside as a rim protector. He has great timing when it comes to making his leap and challenging shots at the rim. Add in the fact that he’s got above-average quickness for a player with his size and it’s easy to envision him becoming an All-NBA defender at the center position.

On the offensive end of the floor, he’ll provide immediate value as a big who can make defensive big men guard him well beyond the three-point line. If he turns that shot into an elite weapon then he’s got a chance to become a bona fide MVP candidate. Even if he doesn’t fulfill his full potential he should become an All-Star with ease.

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