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3 early Grizzlies 2024 NBA Draft Targets in No. 7 lottery slot

Originally posted on ClutchPoints | By Shervon Fakhimi | Last updated 5/10/24

It wasn’t that long ago when the Memphis Grizzlies finished as the two seed in the Western Conference with a 51-31 record. In fact, that was only a year ago. It’s easy to lose sight of that because of how disastrous the 2023-24 season treated the Grizzlies. Memphis went from the two seed to a 27-55 record, missing the playoffs, and owning the seventh-best odds in the upcoming 2024 NBA Draft Lottery.

Injuries derailed any chance of the Grizzlies competing this year. Ja Morant played just nine games due to a suspension and a labral tear in his right shoulder. Marcus Smart, their prized offseason addition, appeared in only 20 games. Desmond Bane missed 40 of the 82 games this season. The Grizzlies wound up playing 33 different players this season because of the numerous injuries they dealt with. At least they have a lottery pick for their troubles, where they will have plenty of options at finding a new contributor to this core.

Reed Sheppard, Guard, Kentucky Wildcats

One player who should be near the top of Memphis’ wish list with their first-round pick is Kentucky guard Reed Sheppard. Offensively, it’s hard to find a better fit next to Memphis’ stars than the Kentucky native. He doesn’t need the ball to be effective, evidenced by his 52.1% mark from three last season in Lexington.

That doesn’t mean Sheppard can’t cook with the ball in his hands either, however. He scored 17.2 points per 40 minutes and was efficient from everywhere on the field. Sheppard did that while posting shooting splits of 53.6/55.5/52.1/83.1. He also averaged 6.2 assists and 5.7 rebounds per 40 minutes. The Kentucky product can do a bit of everything.

Reed Sheppard captivated NBA scouts this season with his shooting prowess, playmaking acumen, defensive instincts, feel for the game, productivity and never-ending confidence, with a slew of exceptional performances in SEC play. https://t.co/3aLTL8dPvo pic.twitter.com/yKOW0NdC1c

— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) April 18, 2024

On paper, it doesn’t seem that guard is at the forefront of Memphis’ needs. Obviously, Morant is the face of their franchise and one of the best point guards in the league. Bane is one of the better combo guards the NBA has to offer too. Smart defends just about everybody but he has guard skills too. But the Grizzlies could use some more shooting (they were 29th in the NBA in three-point percentage this season and 23rd last year). They learned in 2024 how valuable depth is too. Sheppard provides both.

Dalton Knecht, Forward, Tennessee Volunteers

If the Grizzlies want more shooting, they could also look to Tennessee’s Dalton Knecht. Knecht was arguably the breakout star of the 2023-24 college basketball season. After transferring from Northern Colorado, he burst onto the scene in Knoxville by scoring 21.7 points per game on robust volume (16 field goal attempts per game) and efficiency (57.8% true shooting percentage and 53.8% effective field goal percentage).

Knecht is not only a marksman but a legit three-level scorer. He’s best as a secondary creator, but he’d fit that bill to a tee in Memphis. Morant and Bane would be able to set up outstanding looks for him.

Phenomenal effort from Tennessee's Dalton Knecht in the final game of his college career, scoring 37 points (6/12 3P) showing why he's a projected top-10 pick. Made shots in a variety of ways, was a handful in the open court, and made smart passing reads. pic.twitter.com/UCcjDhTcBp

— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) April 1, 2024

Vince Williams Jr. and GG Jackson II were two of the very few bright spots for Memphis this year. They showed they’re capable wing players. But the Grizzlies lack other options on that front. Knecht could help there and projects as an outstanding fit if Memphis can find a way to draft him.

Ja’Kobe Walter, Guard, Baylor Bears

As good of shooters as Sheppard and Knecht are, neither are especially known for their ability to defend. If Memphis wanted to find a two-way player with their first-round pick, Baylor’s Ja’Kobe Walter stands out. Walter wasn’t asked to create much for the Bears, but he was solid as a shooter in his lone season at Waco. He shot 34.1% from three on over six attempts per game and hit free throws at a 79.6% clip.

That last stat matters a lot because it is more indicative of success as a shooter for prospects entering the league than three-point percentage itself. That’s good news for Walter. What’s also good is his ability to defend. He still has room to improve there but Walter showed flashes that he can be a reliable stopper at the next level.

The Grizzlies could really use another two-way guard. Walter may be the best available player for them who fits that bill. He should garner plenty of interest from Memphis’ brass.

This article first appeared on ClutchPoints and was syndicated with permission.

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