5 Memphis Grizzlies whose stocks are fading fast
By Tyler Watts
3. Jake LaRavia
The Grizzlies used the 19th overall draft pick in 2022 on LaRavia. They hoped he would step up in the open competition for their starting small forward spot after the departure of Dillon Brooks. He is only in his second season, but already 22 years old. LaRavia barely played as a rookie, and Memphis hoped for more in year two.
He was in the rotation to start the season, but his minutes quickly dwindled. The 6’8 forward lasted just five games and has not played in the last three. He even had a short stint in the G League already.
The Grizzlies need anybody who can impact winning right now, and LaRavia is not ready. He averaged just 3.4 points and 1.6 rebounds in 12.2 minutes per game. The 22-year-old shot 35.0 percent from the field, and the Grizzlies had a negative-19.0 net rating with him on the floor, which is the worst on the team.
Jake LaRavia is still young but is heading towards bust status. The first-round pick must show something before the end of this season or the Memphis Grizzlies might explore moving on in the summer. They picked up his club option for next season, but he could be sent out in a trade as the franchise looks to get back into contention.