Memphis Grizzlies: 4 teams they shouldn’t want winning the #1 pick

No. 4: Los Angeles Lakers

Odds of obtaining the #1 pick: 15.6%. Pick goes to Philadelphia if it falls outside top-3.

Likely no. 1: Lonzo Ball

In terms of immediate threat, the Lakers shouldn’t be too much of a concern for the Memphis Grizzlies. However, if they keep their pick, they’re a team that could pose a threat in three or four years.

The Lakers already have a dynamic backcourt with the “Swag Bros,” D’Angelo Russell and Jordan Clarkson. In addition, they have a young wing with oodles of potential in Brandon Ingram. Even if he doesn’t turn into Kevin Durant, he could become a pioneer for the next generation of wings – non-point guard players who could lock up the opposing team’s best player, facilitate the offense and score the basketball. Then, they have Julius Randle who has shown flashes becoming another Draymond Green.

Now, imagine if they do indeed draft Lonzo Ball. With him, Russell and Clarkson, that backcourt would become the NBA’s Migos (no reference to Ball’s rap game intended).

What if both Fultz and Ball are off the board? One of the league’s worst defensive teams could pick Josh Jackson, a prototypical two-way wing.

If the Lakers get the third pick and aren’t satisfied with the board, they could dangle it in a package for disgruntled star Paul George – who happens to be from LA.

How they go about the draft affects the Grizzlies in two ways. They could be that team that prevents the Grizzlies from reaching a decade-long string of playoff appearances at “year 9.” Or, they could become a threat in 2017-18 behind their new star.