Duke small forward RJ Barrett reportedly prefers to get drafted by the New York Knicks or Los Angeles Lakers over the Memphis Grizzlies, according to Marc Berman of the New York Post.
Barrett is likely going to get his wish, as all signs point toward the Grizzlies drafting Murray State point guard Ja Morant with the second overall pick.
The Knicks have the third pick, while the Lakers pick fourth. It would shock a lot of people in the league if New York doesn't draft Barrett.
According to an NBA source, the 6-foot-7 Duke swingman prefers if he drops past Memphis, to No. 3 or No. 4, to get to play with either the Knicks or Lakers.
Memphis has the No. 2 pick, but the source told The Post the Grizzlies are leaning toward Murray State point guard Ja Morant.
Barrett put on a show during his one season at Duke. The talented lefty averaged 22.6 points, 7.6 rebounds and 4.3 assists while shooting 45.4 percent from the field, 30.8 percent from beyond the arc and 66.5 percent from the free-throw line.
Barrett is probably the best pure scorer in this year's draft class. The Knicks need all the help they can get. New York can draft Barrett and pair him with Dennis Smith Jr., Kevin Knox and Mitchell Robinson, or package him in a trade to the New Orleans Pelicans for Anthony Davis.