In his most recent article, Sports Illustrated’s Jeremy Woo gave some 2022 NBA draft updates that include the Oklahoma City Thunder, who are picking second overall after jumping the lottery.
Woo reports that the Orlando Magic, who are picking first overall, are currently expected to take Auburn forward Jabari Smith Jr. Those around the league also believe that the Thunder will pick Gonzaga forward Chet Holmgren if Smith Jr. is gone but some around the league believes Duke forward Paolo Banchero could be a possibility.
“I’ve also heard quite a few educated theories since draft night that Oklahoma City may favor Duke forward Paolo Banchero in this spot. It feels like the concern over Banchero’s defense (which, to some extent, I share) has been somewhat overblown on the public front”
We’ve reached the point of the year where draft rumors will be swirling all over social media due to sources having different motivations. This Banchero news could fall under that category. If Holmgren is there at two, it’s hard to see the Thunder pass up on him.
