Memphis Grizzlies
The Ja Morant suspension and injury derailed the Grizzlies last year, but that’s in the past. Now, they’re back on the track. Memphis has excellent young pieces in Morant, former Defensive Player of the Year Jaren Jackson Jr., Desmond Bane, and GG Jackson, who came into his own at the end of the season, averaging 20 points in April to close out his rookie year. At his best, Morant can play at a near-MVP level. Last season, he averaged 25 points and eight assists. Morant is also one of the most electrifying players in the NBA. Memphis finished second in the West in 2022 and 2023, getting eliminated by the eventual champion, Warriors, and Western Conference finalist, Lakers, respectively. The Grizzlies own all their picks over the next five years, which will make them better, but just getting their players back on the court will be an improvement. They’re all young and entering their prime, so improvement should be expected as their careers progress. Memphis also has great ancillary pieces in Ziaire Williams, Brandon Clarke, another former Defensive Player of the Year, Marcus Smart, and their first-round draft pick, reigning two-time College Player of the Year, Zach Edey.
