Memphis Grizzlies Draft Prospects: Josh Hart
The Memphis Grizzlies don’t have a draft pick this year, but if they trade for one, Josh Hart should definitely be on their radar.
This year’s draft is a sticky one for the Memphis Grizzlies. Because of a silly trade for Jon Leuer (yes, still bitter), they’re left without a first round pick. Then, they traded away their second round pick as well, so the Grizzlies don’t have a pick in a historically deep draft. Even though they wouldn’t be competing for the likes of Markelle Fultz, Lonzo Ball or De’Aaron Fox, they’re still missing out on quality players (Justin Jackson, Luke Kennard and TJ Leaf) who can help this team both in the short and long run.
With three second-round draft picks next season and a few tradeable pieces, the Grizzlies could very well be active on draft night. If they decide to make a play into the second round, they should make a run at Josh Hart. The 6’5″ shooting guard from Villanova can absolutely light it up from downtown, and the Grizzlies need a solution at the position as Tony Allen enters free agency.
Could Hart be Tony Allen’s eventual replacement?
3-and-D
In college, Hart’s scoring was a big reason why Villanova won a national championship in 2016. Last season, he averaged 18.7 points on 40.4 percent from downtown. In addition, he also showed a nice in-between game as he shot 57.9 percent on two-point field goals.
Despite his lack of elite athleticism, Hart has the size to get his looks over combo guards (6’5″ with a 6’8″ wingspan and 209 pounds). Because of his size, he has the potential to hold his own on defense and to become one of the better 3-and-D wings in the game.
The Grizzlies lack in true 3-and-D players, so taking a chance on Hart wouldn’t necessarily be a bad thing.
Age is just a number
One of the things holding Hart back from being a first-round pick is his age. Even though he has proven that he’s a winner, teams seem more inclined to select the younger player with more “upside.” However, a player like Hart is exactly what the Grizzlies need.
The Grizzlies haven’t drafted an upperclassmen (junior or senior) since 2013 when they selected Jamal Franklin. Ever since, they’ve relied on younger players with this “upside,” but they’re never ready to produce right away.
Because of Hart’s age and experience, he could realistically come on this roster and rise above likes of Troy Daniels, Wade Baldwin and Andrew Harrison. Over the years, multiple players such as Swiss-army knifes Draymond Green and Paul Millsap have proven that upside doesn’t matter and that they can contribute on playoff-ready teams right away.
Josh Hart could very well be this year’s Malcolm Brogdon.
Best-case scenario
The Memphis Grizzlies find their shooting guard of the future and a guy who could truly help this team win. With Tony Allen entering free agency – and the twilight of his career, the Grizzlies need to focus on the future. Hart enters his rookie year and becomes this year’s Malcolm Brogdon, helping Memphis continue their postseason success.
Long-term, he could become a Danny Green-type player. Over the years, Green has been one of the most underrated 3-and-D players in the league and a key ingredient in the Spurs’ championship recipe. If Hart could reach that level, the Grizzlies would end up with a complete steal.
Worst-case scenario
The Grizzlies don’t trade for him.
But really …
Josh Hart just ends up being a normal journeyman. His lack of elite athleticism hinders him from becoming a true rotation player. In the process, he just becomes another spot-up shooter.
Next: 5 Players worth trading for in the draft
Most-likely scenario
Regardless of where Hart ends up, he could make a difference in this league. As the league values 3-point shooting and versatility, many teams should line up for his services. The Grizzlies lack in both areas, therefore they should definitely explore a trade for one of the best players in the last half of the draft.