Three reasons Memphis Grizzlies will succeed: Ja, Jaren, and Brandon

Brandon Clarke

Another reason Grizzlies fans should be excited for the future of the team is a guy who kind of flew under the radar in the 2019 NBA draft: Brandon Clarke. Coming out of Gonzaga, we knew what kind of defender Clarke was, but there were a few questions about how effective he could be on the offensive. Since coming into the league, he has put those questions to bed, and has turned out to be a steal being selected 21st overall.

In his rookie campaign, Clarke has appeared in 53 games, averaging 12.1 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game, shooting an incredible 62% from the field, 37% from three, and 78% from the floor. His PER so far in his rookie season has been an exceptional 21.6.

Clarke is a guy who is willing to do whatever it takes for his team to win. He doesn’t need the ball in his hands, and in fact he is most effective in the pick and roll game with Morant and when he is attacking the offensive glass and getting second chance points.

But where Clarke really shines is on the other end of the court. He brings a certain aggression on defense that cannot be taught, but is contagious. He takes pride in guarding the other teams best player and making it difficult for them to get in rhythm.

These are just three guys on a very young Grizzlies team, but they are the three fans should be most excited about. Clarke is just 23 years old, and Morant and Jackson just 20. Morant and Jackson Jr. both have the potential to be All-NBA players in this league in due time, given what they have already shown they can do. And Clarke might not be all that far behind. These three have aspects of their games that compliment one another well, and their youth will allow them to grow and mature as players together.

With the news of Jackson Jr.’s injury, the Grizzlies will face an uphill battle to get into the playoffs down the stretch. So while the present might be in question, the future is bright in Memphis, Tennessee.