The Memphis Grizzlies made a nice run in the latter portion of the season and made the Western Conference playoffs after winning the play-in tournament. Memphis is a young, talented team that is still learning to play together. They don't have many players leaving for free agency and could free up to $13 million if the front office opts to decline Justice Winslow's contract (which is likely).
So, Memphis' main core will be relatively the same next year, which allows the team to build chemistry to an even higher level. However, in 2022, Jonas Valanciunas and Kyle Anderson are set to hit free agency. The front office doesn't have to worry about that now, but it's something to keep in mind as they may be looking for future replacements this offseason.
The 2021 NBA Draft class isn't deep with centers this year, but there are a plethora of small forwards available. Those are likely the two positions the front office looks for in future replacements, as the other three positions could be locked down by Ja Morant, Dillon Brooks, and Jaren Jackson Jr. for years to come.
The Grizzlies have plenty of options with the 17th overall pick. They could draft the top available rookie, or possibly trade the pick for a veteran. With that said, here are the three top options the Grizzlies have with the 17th selection of the 2021 NBA Draft.
Draft Corey Kispert
The Gonzaga senior played very well in his final year in college and helped his team make a deep run in the NCAA tournament. In his senior year, Kispert averaged 18.6 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game. He has a ton of potential to be a solid rotational player in the league and could serve as a consistent player for the Grizzlies right away.
Had a chance to watch Gonzaga's Corey Kispert work out in Chicago. Unsurprisingly showed he has one of the most pure and effortless strokes of anyone in the draft. Barely grazes the net. pic.twitter.com/sldb48b4VZ
— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) June 24, 2021
He's a solid three-point shooter, plays decent defense, and has enough experience to make an immediate impact. Kispert would be a tremendous addition to this young Grizzlies team as they continue to build their roster.
Draft Franz Wagner
The German prospect might need some time to develop in the league, but he has all of the tools to be a solid contributor in the NBA. He averaged 12.5 points and 6.5 rebounds per game, which made him an important piece to the Michigan Wolverines rotation. At 6-9, Wagner could serve as a solid rebounder who could stretch the floor with his three-point shooting, which would benefit the Grizzlies greatly.
Trade the pick for a veteran leader
This roster is young and could use a veteran leader on the team. They likely won't get someone that is at Chris Paul's level like the Phoenix Suns got, as the 17th overall selection isn't that high. However, there are plenty of veterans that other teams might consider trading if the right prospect is available.
Ideally, the front office would trade for someone who can contribute. There isn't a point in picking up a player who will mainly sit on the bench. A two-way player would be fantastic, as he would be able to lead the team on both ends of the floor. A couple of names that could hit the NBA rumor mill as possible targets for Memphis are Will Barton and Marcus Smart.
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