Memphis Grizzlies “Locked In” On Selecting Ja Morant With No. 2 Pick

We’re still one month away from the 2019 NBA Draft, but it appears as though the top three picks have already been set.

With the New Orleans Pelicans set to take Zion Williamson with the first overall selection, the Memphis Grizzlies are reportedly “locked in” on taking Murray State point guard Ja Morant. Therefore, leaving Duke’s RJ Barrett for the New York Knicks at number three. According to Jonathan Givony of Draft Express, Morant is essentially guaranteed to hear his name called second on June 20, and the Grizzlies front office are letting that be known. 

In his sophomore season at Murray State, Morant averaged 24.5 points, 10 assists and 5.7 rebounds per game, and recorded a triple-double in the Racers’ first-round victory over Marquette in the NCAA Tournament. The 6’3 point guard has a knack for getting into the lane and finishing at the rim, which is why he was able to shoot 49.9% from the field this season. He also shot 36.3% from behind the arc.

With the Grizzlies informing teams of their intention of selection Morant second overall, it appears the team is also welcoming offers for veteran point guard Mike Conley. According to The Ringer’s Kevin O’Connor, the Utah Jazz are among the teams expected to pursue Conley. O’Connor notes, “multiple league sources said this week that the Jazz are expected to make another push” for the 31-year old lefty.