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

HARTFORD, CT - MARCH 23: Murray State Racers guard Ja Morant (12) during the NCAA Division I Men's Championship second round college basketball game between the Florida State Seminoles and the Murray State Racers on March 23, 2019 at XL Center in Hartford, CT. (Photo by John Jones/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

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3. De’Andre Hunter

Fans of college basketball know how important De’Andre Hunter was for the Virginia Cavaliers, as his absence due to injury led to the first 16-over-1 upset in NCAA Tournament history. This past year he was healthy and was a critical part of their national title victory.

Defensively, Hunter first states his case as a top prospect, with the size at 6’8″ and a 7’2″ wingspan to defend at least 2-4, with the potential to become a true switch-anything defender. His defensive intelligence is exceptional as both an individual defender and in the team scheme, and while he could get beat by the fastest offensive players on the planet, his recovery speed is strong as well.

On offense is where Hunter’s final value will be determined. At worst, he has an inconsistent shot, little playmaking ability and is hard to keep on the floor in important situations. At best, he continues to develop into a secondary threat who can put the ball on the deck and score inside and out. The average outcome of simply being a reliable outside shooter will be enough to make him incredible valuable.

Hunter can play defensively either forward position, allowing the Grizzlies to pair him with Jaren Jackson Jr. in larger lineups or slide to the 4 in smaller lineups. His offensive upside may not be there for the Grizzlies to go after him at 2, but there is something about a player who has the frame and the track record Hunter does being an extremely valuable player to have on your roster.

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