NBA Draft Mock 1.0: Early pre-lottery projections for all 30 teams

Cade Cunningham - Credit: Marc Lebryk-USA TODAY Sports
Cade Cunningham - Credit: Marc Lebryk-USA TODAY Sports
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NBA Draft, James Bouknight
NBA Draft, James Bouknight – Credit: Mike Dinovo-USA TODAY Sports

NBA Draft Mock 17th Pick: Memphis Grizzlies

The Memphis Grizzlies are an exciting up-and-coming team with their blue-collar approach and overall talent. After wrestling for a playoff spot this season, the team will want to ensure that Ja Morant and co. can soar to new heights in the upcoming season.

It’s hard to nitpick about the Grizzlies, but their offense can still improve by a lot. James Bouknight will surely be a welcome asset as a scorer, but more than his advertised scoring ability, he seems like a perfect fit for the team’s identity. Despite being a 6’4 guard, he is fearless going against taller players to try and secure a board.

He’s not a great passer, but Morant’s presence negates the need for it anyway. With Memphis, he can just be himself; driving aggressively, moving without the ball and playing hard-nosed defense. Ultimately, Bouknight already has the makings of a Grizzly and he’ll fit in perfectly with this relentless bunch.