Memphis Grizzlies: 2018 NBA Draft Big Board 1.0

No. 5: DeAndre Ayton

DeAndre Ayton might be the best prospect in this draft and could be out of the Memphis Grizzlies’ range.

He’s an absolute freak of nature that has received lofty comparisons such as David Robinson, Hakeem Olajuwon and Joel Embiid. It’s unfair to say he’ll make it there, but he can still be a game-changing big man at the level.

At 7’1”, 250 pounds, Ayton is a legitimate 5 and could be the game’s next great unicorn. He has solid moves in the post – a rare trait in most centers in today’s game. He can step up from mid-range – and at times, from deep – and knock down an open jumper. His mechanics are kind of goofy, but if it goes in, it goes in.

Defensively, he’s an intriguing prospect. He’s not as prolific as Jackson and Bamba on the less glamorous end. While he’s averaging 1.8 blocks a game, he just doesn’t seem as engaged on the defensive end of the court. He has all the physical tools to be a dominant rim protector, and maybe his engagement and aggression will appear in the NBA.

The fit with the Grizzlies, for next season at least, is extremely awkward. Both Ayton and Gasol thrive as true centers. Unless the Grizzlies and Gasol part ways, it’s hard to see them draft Ayton first.