There is growing pessimism that the NBA will allow prospects to enter the league directly from high school in time for the 2022 draft, according to Jonathan Givony of ESPN.

With the NBA expected to inevitably lower the age limit, there had been speculation that 2022 could become a double draft in which the final class of one-and-done players would be combined with high school prospects.

The Phoenix Suns traded a 2022 first round pick as part of a package for Chris Paul on Monday.

If the NBA changes the rule in time for 2023, it could allow Bronny James to enter the NBA directly from high school. Emoni Bates is considered the top high school prospect set to graduate in 2022.