Memphis Grizzlies: 5 Under The Radar Mid-Major NBA Draft Prospects
By Chris Kern
Jalen McDaniels
Jalen McDaniels is the top NBA Draft prospect on this list by a long shot. He is only a sophomore though so it’s possible he could return to San Diego State next season but it’s also possible he becomes a first-round pick.
He led the Aztecs to the NCAA Tournament a year ago and he’s looking to do the same this season. His production has improved a lot from this season as he is now averaging 16.9 points, 8.5 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 1.2 steals per game.
He is much more of a focus on the offensive end this season than he was a year ago. He has seen his shot attempts more than double from 6.5 to 13.7. His efficiency has dropped though as he has continued to stretch his game out to the perimeter.
He has made 20 of the 62 three-point shots he has attempted this season. That’s a skill he will need at the next level so it is good to see him continuing to work on that.
More from Beale Street Bears
- Dillon Brooks speaks out after beating former Grizzlies teammate in World Cup
- Jaren Jackson Jr. puts ex-Grizzlies teammate on notice
- 3 players Grizzlies would consider trading Ja Morant for
- Grizzlies star Jaren Jackson Jr. put on blast following FIBA elimination
- Ex-Grizzlies guard signs with title favorite, joins forces with 6-time All-Star
He has had some big games this season but his best performance was in a home win against UNLV. In that game, he finished with 30 points, 13 rebounds, 4 assists, and 5 steals.
Performances like that are a big reason why he likely would get drafted if he does indeed declare for the NBA Draft. He likely would be either a late-first round pick or an early second which could make it difficult for Memphis to take him.
His ability to make plays on both ends of the floor is insane and being able to do so at 6’10” is rare and while more and more players of his size are able to do so he is still very valuable.
A comparison that I’ve seen and that makes a lot of sense is Jonathan Isaac. They have a similar skill set and they also have a similar build. McDaniels could easily become a player like that for his NBA career.
Next. Chandler Parsons Set To Return To The Rotation. dark
It will be tough for the Grizzlies to get McDaniels in the NBA Draft but they need to make sure they still scout him plenty because he is a very talented player and he could become a really good part of their future.