2019 NBA Draft: Full Mock Draft 2.0 – Pelicans take Zion; who goes next?

#2. Memphis Grizzlies: Ja Morant, G

School: Murray State | Class: Sophomore | Height: 6’3″ | Weight: 170 | Age: 19

The lead guard from Murray State will give the Memphis Grizzles confidence in future Mike Conley trade talks. Morant could replace most of the NBA’s guards based on athleticism alone. Being the face of the franchise going forward fits his personality. The only question is if Morant will ever focus on defense like Conley.

Morant had to find everyone’s buckets to carry Murray State last year, averaging 10 assists. He could be a better passer than shooter in the NBA, especially his first few seasons. He creates plenty of space with his speed and will attract hard help defense with his quick first step. Finding those open shooters and committing less turnovers will be more important for his development than hitting open jumpers at this point.

His jumper will need a couple of tweaks to extend his range, and his frame will need some more weight room sessions to finish at the rim with above average efficiency. He can explode in the open floor and at the rim, which is how he introduced himself to the basketball world at large last season.

If the Grizzlies are truly looking to start over this offseason, selecting Ja Morant to go along with Jaren Jackson Jr. is setting up Memphis for a very bright future down the road.

– Chris Dodson (@DoingItDodson)