All signs point to the Memphis Grizzlies selecting Ja Morant with the No. 2 pick in the 2019 NBA Draft. Just in case Memphis changes course and decides to go a different direction, though, the Murray State point guard is doing everything he can to ensure he wouldn't be waiting in the green for long.
ESPN's Jordan Schultz reported on Wednesday that Morant will meet this week with New York Knicks officials, who had previously spent two days getting to know Duke swingman R.J. Barrett.
Ja Morant will meet with the #Knicks’ brass tomorrow in New York City, a source tells ESPN. This comes on the heels of the team spending two days with RJ Barrett.@igotgame_12
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) June 12, 2019
It was reported shortly after the lottery that the Grizzlies had zeroed in on Morant with the second overall pick, which makes sense not only given his status as the consensus second-best prospect in this class, but also because the team is likely to trade longtime incumbent floor general Mike Conley at some point before the trade deadline. But there have been rumors in the interim suggesting Memphis has yet to make up its mind, preferring to do diligence on additional prospects before coming to a final decision.
Barrett, broadly considered the third-best prospect in the draft, said after his workout with the Knicks that New York is where he wants to be.
Morant emerged as a breakout star during his sophomore season, averaging 24.5 points, 5.7 rebounds, and a NCAA-leading 10.0 assists per game while shooting 36.3 percent from beyond the arc, much improved from his freshman season. He still needs to continue refining his jumper, add weight and strength to his lithe physique, and make major strides as a finisher around the rim, but Morant nevertheless profiles as a potential franchise point guard at the next level.
Whether Morant is ultimately selected by the Grizzlies or Knicks, both teams would be lucky to have him.
Follow Us
Subscribe