The Memphis Grizzlies waived a former No. 1 decide this week in Derrick Rose. One other former No. 1 decide may very well be the right substitute.
With Rose headed to retirement, or just someplace that is not Memphis, the Grizzlies have a gap of their guard rotation, and an empty roster spot. There simply so occurs to be a free-agent level guard who matches this spot completely: Markelle Fultz.
Fultz was the highest decide within the 2017 draft, however a collection of accidents slowed his profession earlier than it started. A shoulder ailment restricted him to solely 33 video games in two seasons with the Philadelphia 76ers after they took him at No. 1, with Fultz solely receiving a prognosis of thoracic outlet syndrome after a full season.
He emerged as a dependable level guard after a commerce to the Orlando Magic, offering playmaking a stable protection, although not a lot taking pictures.
That is what the Grizzlies want, particularly in the event that they plan to make use of Marcus Good alongside Ja Morant within the backcourt. As of now, Memphis has two-way participant Scotty Pippen, Jr. as their backup level guard, with John Konchar as an emergency choice. Given Morant and Good’s latest historical past of accidents, that is not sufficient ballhandling insurance coverage.
After all, Fultz has additionally been stricken by accidents throughout his seven-year profession, which may give the Grizzlies pause. After a resurgent 2022-23 season the place Fultz averaged 14 factors and 5.7 assists whereas beginning 60 video games, knee points restricted Fultz to 43 video games and simply 18 begins in 2023-24.
Nonetheless, he is simply probably the most proficient unsigned free agent out there, with the potential to be among the finest backup factors within the NBA.
There can be a sure poetry to a special unfortunate former No. 1 decide succeeding Rose, and as an added bonus, Fultz’s sport matches properly in Memphis. He is a wonderful ball thief, and steals are one of many backbones of the Grizzlies protection.
He is nonetheless solely 26 years previous, and including Fultz would enable Memphis to carry Pippen alongside slowly with one other veteran mentor, whereas retaining him on his two-way deal.
Rose’s departure could find yourself giving the Grizzlies the surprising alternative for what may very well be a really priceless improve.
