NBA Draft: Top-5 Centers of The 2022 Draft Class
The center position is a dying breed in the NBA. Will the 2022 NBA Draft bring a new crop of big men to revitalize the position? I’ve gone and highlighted my top-5 Center options for the upcoming draft.
Chet Holmgren – Gonzaga
I suppose no list of best 5’s in the 2022 draft is complete without Holmgren. He can play the 4 or 5. Holmgren will likely be viewed as a swing big among many NBA teams. The all-around skill is apparent. Holmgren has an innate ability to create and get himself involved in the offense away from the paint. It’s that reason why I’m a bit hesitant on Holmgren. Not only is his frame unbecoming for a Center in today’s NBA, but a lot of what he does best is also creating with the basketball (not really seeing a post-up player). If he can develop some muscle and continue his ability to create, I’d have no problem saying Holmgren is the best true Center prospect this year. I will admit, I do refuse to say he’s a generational talent like some believe him to be.
John Butler, Florida State
Butler isn’t a big who’s going to come into the NBA and start right away. He will probably get some time in the G-League.
In 2 years, I’d argue he might be the best player of the 2022 class. Butler is that damn good The strength of Butler, he’s a pure knockdown 3-point shooter. In today’s game, that will not go overlooked by any scout. A lot needs to said about his overall awareness on the court, but, given the proper development, that will work itself out. I’m not sold Butler will be a post-up/down low threat, however, he can succeed in the league given his ability to spread the floor.
More NBA Draft: Top 10 Prospects of 2022?
Christian Koloko, Arizona
I don’t envision Koloko failing in the NBA. He’s got very good defensive instincts. Koloko has the confidence to attack anyone in the paint. He probably won’t be a dominant scorer, however, is skilled enough to carve out a role as a starter. The defense in the paint can’t be questioned. I personally think he’s a bit too un-athletic to guard players on the perimeter. Koloko won’t be a dominant shooter, however, there is enough potential on that end to warrant above league average for his position.
Ibou Dianko-Badji, INTL
IDB is an absolute force dunking the basketball. He finishes with such force and ferocity, I’d reckon he’s a threat to shatter the backboard every dunk. My favorite trait of IDB, I love his mid-range game potential, and his shooter’s touch off the post-up. He will be the perfect alley-oop partner for guards, while also giving his ballhandler confidence for an easy assist with strong pick-and-roll skills.
Ismael Kamagate, INTL
Like IDB, Kamagate is an international man of interest. I do not think Kamagate has as many standout traits as IDB (or any other center prospects), however, his long-term ceiling is sky-high. Kamagate is a rim-runner with high athleticism. He’s developing offensive talent, but a jump shot is currently non-existent. Kamagate looked relatively strong going against Victor Wembenyama on defense (2023 NBA Draft), although, did look a bit overmatched playing him 1-on-1. Kamagate’s athletic nature will lend him well with NBA coaches who will look to develop his movement around the basket. The lack of a shot will make it tough for him to be a true stretch 5, however, I’m salivating at the upside.
Image Source: Logan Stanford
Daniel is a guru of baseball and basketball prospects. He’s a very experienced Amusement Park traveler as well. Follow him and his hot takes on Insta @dgentleman9288
