Memphis Grizzlies: Is number one pick too good to be true?

The Memphis Grizzlies are in pole position to have the best lottery odds. Does it just seem too good to be true? Could the Grizz actually get the top pick?

Believe it or not, the Memphis Grizzlies possess the highest lottery odds right now, as they have a 25 percent chance of obtaining the number one pick and a 64 percent chance to stay in the top-three. Losing sucks, but this eases the pain, doesn’t it?

In a matter of weeks, we’ve gone from talking about Collin Sexton and Mikal Bridges to Luka Doncic and DeAndre Ayton. It seems too good to be true. Could you imagine if they got the number one pick in this year’s top-heavy draft class? You have Ayton, Doncic, Marvin Bagley, Michael Porter Jr., Jaren Jackson Jr., Trae Young and everyone else still on the board. The Grizzlies would control everyone’s fate, for better or for worse.

However, if history repeats itself, you won’t be too thrilled.

The Memphis Grizzlies have gone to the lottery 12 times in their 23-year franchise history. Of those 12 years, they’ve had the highest odds of getting the number one pick four times. In those four years, they didn’t get the number one pick. In fact, they haven’t gotten the number one pick.

Given the sketchy history of the draft lottery, why would you be even optimistic of getting the number-one pick? Wouldn’t it make more sense to give it to a team like Sacramento, Orlando or Phoenix, as they’ve experienced lottery purgatory for years?

Next: Could Grizzlies capitalize on Jaren Jackson's rising stock?

Why it’s okay though …

If the Memphis Grizzlies don’t get the number one pick, don’t be upset. This draft is loaded with top-heavy talent. Even if they finish with the best lottery odds, they’ll still be in the top-four. In that range, you can still pick from Bagley, Porter, Jackson or Young.

Regardless, you’re still getting a potential franchise-changer.

I know getting the number one pick would be glorious. I would probably cry tears of joy if it happens. However, it just seems too good to be true.