Portland Trail Blazers 2022 Mock Draft Compilation 1.0
Ed Stein
|
Round 2, 36th overall
We audited 10 mock drafts that went both rounds. There are plenty of variables out there that make selecting a player at this point difficult. However, two players came up twice to lead the way as potential Portland Trail Blazers, Arizona center Christian Koloko and Alabama point guard JD Davison.
If I’m being honest, I’d like to see Cronin package his two second-rounders for a late first. But since it hasn’t happened, we go with the known.
Koloko is a physical specimen. He’s 7-1, with a 7-5 wingspan and 9-3.5 standing reach. Oh, and he’s in great physical shape with 6 percent body fat.
Although some view him as a work in progress who needs to develop, he would be a great fit for the Portland Trail Blazers. Koloko has the potential to be the dominating defender and rebounder they need inside.
2021-22 was a breakout season for Koloko. He more than doubled his points and blocks per game in addition to increasing his shooting percentages. Koloko was one of the biggest reasons Arizona dominated the Pac-12 last season.
His breakout coincided with a rise in confidence. While still passive at times, he’s coming around. Much like Simons and Little, Koloko will need a year or so under his belt to be a regular contributor.
Other players considered include Trevor Keels, SG, Duke; Blake Wesley, SG, Notre Dame; Jean Montero, PG, Overtime Elite (Dominican Republic); Wendell Moore, W, Duke; Terquavion Smith, SG, North Carolina State; Leonard Miller, F, Lake Erie (Canada).