Memphis Grizzlies: 3 takeaways from 2019 NBA offseason

2. League Pass team of the year?

Jaren Jackson Jr. was arguably the best player available at his draft slot, but he also brought an identity to Memphis that the previous core did not. “Grit-n-Grind” was effective in its time, but a more modern look could take the top off.

Jackson is exactly what you want in a modern big: shooting (35.9 percent clip on 142 3-point attempts), switchable defense, and rim protection (1.9 blocks per 36 minutes).

Though he’s not the focal point of an offense, he’s an important part of it. Just as 3-and-D wings are extremely valuable, so are 3-and-D bigs.

As a complement to Ja Morant and JJJ, Memphis then traded up (with the pick they received for Mike Conley) to select Brandon Clarke at No. 21. Clarke has elite bounce himself, which he showcased quite well in Summer League.

That pop works on both ends. Clarke was a defensive menace at Gonzaga, rejecting as many opponents’ shots as he himself missed last season.

Morant’s frontcourt options will be vertical threats out of any play type, which will make his transition to the NBA much easier.

The supporting cast will be one hell of a ride too. Josh Jackson, though irresponsible, is an intriguing flyer prospect. De’Anthony Melton is a menacing defender when not tasked with running the offense. Dillon Brooks is a solid piece.

Though not a run-and-gun player, everyone loves Jonas Valanciunas. Kyle Anderson is very effective for a wing who refuses to shoot. Tyus Jones was beloved for his defense in Minnesota. Bruno Caboclo finally looks like an NBA player. Grayson Allen is must-see TV, if nothing else.

They won’t win a lot of games, but they’re going to run a lot, and have fun doing it.