Javon Small was selected with the 48th overall pick in this year's NBA Draft out of West Virginia University. The 6’1 guard signed a two-way contract with the Grizzlies this July in the middle of a strong summer league showing. He only played two games due to a groin injury, but in those two games, he put up good numbers. He averaged 17.0 points, 7.0 assists, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.0 steals in 23.5 minutes per game over two appearances.
He’ll likely spend most of his time in Southaven with the Memphis Hustle, but he can use that time to shape his game into a core rotational piece for the future. Small is more than likely seen as a development piece that could be a true NBA player two or three years down the line. However, if needed, he has the skillset to be a spark plug for the Grizzlies this year.
A Good “Break For Emergency Option”
In the summer league, Small showcased his full skillset and additional skills he’s been working on since being drafted. Coming out of West Virginia, scouts knew he had great command of the offense and could put pressure on the defense by constantly getting into the paint. They knew he was an elite playmaker for himself and his teammates. He also possesses elite athleticism that enables him to make plays on both ends of the floor, including penetrating the paint and getting in passing lanes on the defensive end. He was also slated as an on-ball defensive menace.
He showed all of those facets of his game this summer. However, the part of his game he seemed to expand was his outside game. Repeatedly, he showed himself to be able to hit the outside shot, more impressively off-the-dribble. He was also able to expand his floater game.
Being able to score the basketball outside of attacking the rim is a skill that Small will continue to develop and will prove valuable as his career unfolds. If he continues to develop in both the G League and the main roster, he can give head coach Tuomas Iisalo a unique look in certain lineups during the season. His versatility, athleticism, and toughness could earn him minutes and provide a spark in a situation where Ja Morant or Scottie Pippen Jr. is unable to suit up.
Grizzlies General Manager Zach Klieman has been adamant this year about wanting more “dawgs” on this roster. Small fits that archetype and has the opportunity to carve out a role for years to come.