HAVING traded away their first round selection, the Memphis Grizzlies will be looking to find some gems in the second round of the 2025 NBA Draft in Chicago later this month, as the team looks to take the next step in their postseason progress.

The Grizzlies were off to a slow start to begin the 2024/25 fixture, struggling in the absence of star point guard Ja Morant. However, as the season rolled on, Memphis improved when he returned to the fold, and became one of the better teams in the Western Conference as the season rolled on, locking in a postseason spot.

Unfortunately, they came up against the first-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder in the first round, who were the best side in the NBA for the entirety of the season, and the Grizzlies were convincingly beaten in four games.

However, the Grizzlies will be able to pick up a couple of players through the 2025 NBA Draft, and although they do not have their first round selection, they will still look to find some sliders further down the order.

Memphis Grizzlies

Draft selections

48, 56

Contracted players

Ja Morant, Desmond Bane, Jaren Jackson Jr., Brandon Clarke, John Konchar, Zach Edey, Vince Williams Jr., Jay Huff, Scotty Pippen Jr., GG Jackson II

The Grizzlies have built a strong young roster over the past five years, and have been able to lock in their core for the coming years. Memphis has shown this group of players has plenty of potential, and although availability has been a slight issue at times, the talent is undeniable.

They will likely look to add complimentary pieces to their roster at the draft, which does work in their favour considering they do not have a first round pick. Although they will not be making their first selection until pick 48, it is a deep draft class, and they could find a hidden gem.

One option for the Grizzlies could be to add a more raw prospect, given they have so much talent already on the roster. There are even some options on the board that could be potentially stashed overseas for the first few years of their development.

One player that comes to mind is big man Michael Ruzic, who boasts impressive height and strong shooting for his position. An excellent mover off the ball, Ruzic is certainly a raw prospect, and will take some developing, but given his ability to stretch the floor in the frontcourt, he is worth the investment.

If the Grizzlies look for value, Brice Williams could be an option if still on the board, given his impressive shotmaking ability. The wing brings tremendous shot creation to the table as a player, and will deliver instant offence if the team looks to pick him up with their first win.