NBA icon-turned-analyst Dwyane Wade is ecstatic about the Memphis Grizzlies' young core, so much so that he even called Shaquille O'Neal to take notice of the young studs.
I love what Memphis is building. @shaq it’s time to take notice of these young bulls https://t.co/m3Qdn5DOhw
— DWade (@DwyaneWade) February 6, 2020
Ja Morant, the second overall pick of the 2019 NBA Draft, has turned out to be as impressive as publicized. In 44 games (all starts), the 20-year-old is averaging 17.3 points, 3.4 rebounds and 7.1 assists across 29.8 minutes per game.
Grizzlies head coach Taylor Jenkins has given Morant the keys to orchestrate the offense, and it has worked wonders for the team. Memphis is currently 26-25 on the season, good for eighth place in the ultra-competitive Western Conference.




Dillon Brooks, too, has been impressive this year. The second-round pick has been stellar in his first three years in the league, and the Grizzlies have taken notice by offering him a three-year, $35 million extension.
Jaren Jackson Jr., the 2018's fourth overall pick, continues to develop into a formidable big man. In 48 starts this 2019-20, the 20-year-old is averaging 17.6 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 1.4 assists. He's also shooting at an impressive 40.3 percent clip from deep, converting on 2.6 triples per game on 6.4 attempts.
The Grizzlies' youth and talent are certainly key assets as they continue to rebuild their squad. Only time will tell if the organization does indeed stick around with these young guns; however, as Dwyane Wade suggested, the future looks bright for the team.