The 2022 NBA Draft takes place Thursday night at Barclays Center in Brooklyn. Here's a comprehensive prediction of the top 10 picks based on team needs, expert analysis, and recent rumors:

1. Orlando Magic - Jabari Smith Jr. (Auburn)

• 6'10" forward with elite shooting and defensive skills
• Immediate contributor who fills Magic's need for star potential

2. Oklahoma City Thunder - Chet Holmgren (Gonzaga)

• 7-foot elite defender with surprising shooting/passing ability
• Perfect fit for Thunder's youth movement despite slim frame

3. Houston Rockets - Paolo Banchero (Duke)

• 6'10" forward with NBA-ready size and strength
• Versatile scorer with potential to be best player in class

4. Sacramento Kings - Keegan Murray (Iowa)

• 6'8" forward addresses Kings' frontcourt needs
• NBA-ready skillset complements recent guard-heavy drafts

5. Detroit Pistons - Bennedict Mathurin (Arizona)

• 6'6" wing with elite shooting and NBA-ready body
• Strong off-ball skills and toughness fit Pistons' needs

6. Indiana Pacers - Jaden Ivey (Purdue)

• 6'4" guard with explosive scoring ability
• Indiana native with star potential at both guard spots

7. Portland Trail Blazers - Dyson Daniels (G League)

• 6'7" combo guard with unique passing ability
• Strong defender who complements Damian Lillard

8. New Orleans Pelicans - Ochai Agbaji (Kansas)

• NBA-ready 22-year-old wing and potent scorer
• Immediate contributor alongside existing stars

9. San Antonio Spurs - Ousmane Dieng (NBL)

• 6'10" forward with elite playmaking potential
• Raw talent who fits Spurs' development system

10. Washington Wizards - Shaedon Sharpe (Kentucky)

• 6'6" guard with immense offensive upside
• High-risk, high-reward prospect with star potential

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