5 players the Memphis Grizzlies should’ve picked over Wade Baldwin

No. 1: Skal Labissiere

If Brogdon was the best option in terms of present value, then Skal Labissiere is the future value option.

Off the court, Labissiere would’ve been a fan favorite year — a possible bridge between Randolph and Tony to a new era. He played high school basketball in Memphis and is one of the most genuine players in the league.

On the court, he can be a special player. He has a smooth touch around the rim and from mid-range. The same touch can help him expand his range out to 3-point range. With his size (7’0″, 7’2″ wingspan and 8’9.5″ standing reach), he has the potential to become an elite rim-protecter once he bulks up.

Last season, he flashed promise as he surprisingly escaped out of Dave Joeger’s rookie daycare. After the All-Star break, Labissiere found more playing time without DeMarcus Cousins in town. In the process, he dispelled most concerns about his game after his abysmal season at Kentucky. He averaged 10.8 points and six rebounds in the 25-game span. Not to mention, he had an outstanding performance where he had 32 points and 11 rebounds.

If they drafted Skal, they would’ve avoided the 2016 draft-night trade, allowing them to retain the Clippers’ 2019 first-round pick. In addition, they would have someone who could become Marc Gasol’s successor.

At the time, he could’ve been a riskier pick than Wade Baldwin. However, Labissiere has shown he can produce at a NBA level. When someone has the potential to be an All-Star big man and he’s available, you take him.

Next: 3 Takeaways from Open Practice

So what do you think? Who should’ve been drafted as the 17th overall pick in the 2016 draft?