A New NBA Draft Brings A New Crop Of Potential 2nd Round Steals

The Covid aftermath put a lot of strain on the latest NBA campaign. The 2021-22 NBA season featured a high number of 2nd rd picks stepping up for their respective rosters due to league protocols. To name a few, Herb Jones, Ayo Dosonmu, Delano Banton, BJ Boston, and Aaron Wiggins, all carved out consistent roles. While the same level of production can’t be expected from the recent ’22 Draft Class, don’t count out certain under-the-radar 2nd round picks to emerge.

Jaden Hardy- SG, Dallas (Pick 37)

The former G-League Ignite star might have slipped a bit on draft night due to concerns over his overall game. Hardy is primarily a scorer. While he did flash the ability to get teammates involved in the offense, he’s not a player who’s going to be relied on for 5 or 6 assists. Hardy is a scoring guard, one who doesn’t have the most defined jump shot. He’s aggressive getting to the basket, however, doesn’t necessarily draw much contact (2.6 Free throw attempts per game). Hardy did have very inconsistent month stretches (a likely reason for his slide). Why do I believe he’s a breakout 2nd rd pick? Confidence.

Hardy will look to score. He’s not afraid to take a game over and put the team on his back. He’s obviously going to have to learn his place on the Mavericks roster before he’s doing just that, however, with a Dallas team who’s struggled to find a compliment to Luka Doncic, Hardy is the type of player who can, not only give Luka an additional scorer, perhaps take some pressure off Doncic to score. This is obviously all contingent on Hardy finding his shot and being more aggressive attacking the basket, however, not many 2nd rnd picks have the confidence of Hardy.

Josh Minott-G, Minnesota (via Charlotte) (Pick 45)

If you look at the stats of Josh Minott’s lone season at Memphis (6.6 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 0.9 APG), you’re likely asking yourself why he’s even remotely considered a draftable prospect? The true appeal with Minott (and a lot of players nowadays) is his high ceiling.

Minott, who played sparingly as a freshman, made use of the minutes he was given. His jumpshot is definitely a work in progress. Many see Minott as a solid defensive presence on the floor. It’s the defensive ability and other intangibles away from scoring that gave Minnesota hope. A late bloomer, Minott could develop into a solid rotational player who’s going to keep his team in games while on the floor.

Jaylin Williams, C, Oklahoma City (Pick 34)

Of all the big men in this draft, Williams knows the NBA game better than any. He’s not a dominant scorer down low. He isn’t going to lead the league in rebound (although, he very well could )Williams will be one of the best role players in the league (and possibly starters). Its very possible Williams is a double-digit scorer and effective rebounder in a few years time. His biggest appeal comes from his IQ.

Williams constantly drew the ire of opposition in college due to his ability to draw charges. He maintains a certain grit about his game. Williams won’t back down. He creates the contact, putting himself on the line to draw fouls. In today’s NBA, I’d say that’s a rare breed.

For the record, I had EJ Liddell on this list. His injury (which will likely cost him the season) forced me to take him off. However, there are a few other 2nd round names to keep an eye on as well.

Isaiah Mobley, who teams up with his brother, Evan, in Cleveland, is a very solid big for guards to play off of at the top of the key. In addition, Cleveland also drafted NBL standout, Luke Travers, who showcases a very strong all-around game and high basketball IQ.

Toronto can’t be overlooked with Chrisitan Koloko. The Raptors have had success with 2nd rd big men before. Koloko is a solid defensive presence, who could lead the team in blocks.

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