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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WEST LAFAYETTE, IN – JANUARY 14: Bryce McGowens #5 of the Nebraska Cornhuskers is seen during the game against the Purdue Boilermakers at Mackey Arena on January 14, 2022 in West Lafayette, Indiana. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images) /

1. Bryce McGowens

Most mock drafts are projecting McGowens to go somewhere in the 20s after his inconsistent collegiate career. Fans shouldn’t be surprised if an aggressive GM falls in love with his scoring ability and takes him earlier in the lottery.

McGowens is wired as a true scorer who isn’t afraid to attack the defensive in a variety of ways. He didn’t shoot the ball well from three in college, but his stroke isn’t broken. Fixing that deficiency will be the team that drafts him’s first priority.

If he can maximize his shot from three then the floor will open up and allow his off-the-dribble gifts to really shine. He’s quick and physical taking the ball inside the paint and he already possesses the sort of floater game required to succeed at the next level. The floor for him should be as an instant-impact scorer off the bench but he’s got enough savvy to be a first or second option on a good starting unit.

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McGowens’ lack of interest in defending the opponent in college is troubling but it’s not impossible to envision improvement there given his strength and length. It might take McGowens a year or two to feel his way through the pro game but he could turn out to be the steal of the draft if his career breaks right.

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