Several members of the 2019 NBA Draft were recently asked to vote on their classmates in a series of categories, including “most athletic” and “best shooter.” As part of their polling process, the rookies recognized Memphis Grizzlies point guard Ja Morant as the “best playmaker” from this year's draft.
Which rookie is the best playmaker?
1. Ja Morant, Memphis — 40%
2. Darius Garland, Cleveland — 15%
3. Ty Jerome, Phoenix — 10%
Coby White, Chicago — 10%5. Nickeil Alexander-Walker, New Orleans — 8%
6. Kevin Porter Jr., Cleveland — 6%
Tremont Waters, Boston — 6%Others receiving votes: Carsen Edwards, Boston; Kyle Guy, Sacramento
Morant, now 20 years of age, is indeed an excellent playmaker. In fact, many experts are viewing him as one of the best players in this year's draft. The South Carolina native has great ball handling skills, excellent court vision, a high-revving motor and a knack for getting to the hoop.
Morant played two seasons at Murray State, leading the entire NCAA in assists and claiming consensus First-Team All-American honors in his senior year. In 33 senior appearances with the Racers (all starts), he racked up averages of 24.5 points on 49.9 percent shooting from the field (36.3 percent from beyond the arc), 10.0 assists, 5.7 rebounds, 1.8 steals, and just under one block (0.8) in 36.6 minutes per outing.
The Grizzlies finished the 2018-19 season with a 33-49 overall record, which left the team out of playoff contention. With Morant aboard for the coming campaign, though, Memphis will be looking to get back into the hunt.
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