Memphis Grizzlies: 5 options for pick No. 2 in 2019 NBA Draft

4. Jarrett Culver

The Memphis Grizzlies are a team that has always valued defense, and its core pieces over the years since their move to Tennessee have consistently had defensive chops. There are few players in the draft who can meet that threshold defensively while still providing an offensive boost, but Texas Tech’s Jarrett Culver is one of them.

Fresh off the Red Raiders’ run to the NCAA championship game, Culver is a tough defender who can likely guard 1-3 from the jump in the NBA. He loves to take on opposing ball-handlers one-on-one, fighting over screens and staying glued to his man. His quick hands generate steals and occasionally even blocks, and he fights his way to the defensive glass.

On offense there are more blemishes, although the general outline is promising. He was the top playmaker for Texas Tech last season, and he is a willing passer who can create for himself and others. Even so, his vision needs work, as does his decision-making, as he took a lot of contested long 2s.

The Grizzlies could pair him in the backcourt with Delon Wright for a fearsome defensive combination, and together the two could make a lead ball-handler. His versatility on offense and defense would give Memphis options in team-building, both in future drafts and in its return for Mike Conley. They would be unlikely to regret the pick, even if he does not end up as the second-best player in this draft.