Last night, the Memphis Grizzlies made an ambitious trade to move up to the 11th overall pick, ultimately selecting Cedric Coward out of Washington State. It was a steep price to move up five spots, as the Grizzlies gave Portland the 16th overall pick, Orlando's 2028 first-round pick, and two second-rounders. However, Cedric Coward addresses an immediate need for the Grizzlies and has the potential to be a high-level 3-and-D starter one day.
Zach Kleiman should be willing to move up again in this draft
The Grizzlies still currently possess the 48th and 56th overall picks of the draft. While there is still a chance to add a quality player at either draft selection, the Grizzlies should not hesitate to move up again and acquire a pick in the 30s. The Grizzlies could easily create a package to move up using the 48th overall pick and including cash or a future second-round pick.
Despite already drafting Cedric Coward, the Grizzlies should look to capitalize on the draft fall of Rasheer Fleming. Rasheer Fleming was projected by many to be a first-round pick in this year's draft, but he still remains available heading into the second round. While there were valid concerns about Fleming's playmaking and shot creation off the dribble, Fleming still has many great qualities that should translate to success at the next level.
Rasheer Fleming is another lengthy wing listed at 6'8" and possessing a 7'5" wingspan. At Saint Joseph's this season, Fleming averaged 14.8 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game. Most importantly, he shot 53% from the field and an impressive 39% from three. Fleming is an efficient scorer at the rim and possesses impressive spot-up shooting ability. While there is plenty to like about his offensive game, it is his defensive upside that makes him special as a prospect.
Rasheer Fleming showcased a wide range of defensive tools needed to defend at a high level in the NBA. This season, he averaged an impressive 2.9 combined steals and blocks (stocks) per game. Fleming proved to be an impactful defender throughout the whole season, recording a 3.1 defensive BPM. Fleming also displayed impressive defensive rebounding skills, grabbing 22.8% of available defensive rebounds. Fleming is a versatile defender that is capable of protecting the rim and guarding the perimeter at a high level.
While Rasheer Fleming is still just 20 years old, his skill set gives him the ability to contribute immediately. The Memphis Grizzlies should still prioritize adding more experience to the roster after the draft. However, Rasheer Fleming's draft fall presents another exciting opportunity for the Grizzlies to add another high-potential 3-and-D player.