If Memphis Grizzlies trade down in 2024 NBA Draft first round, here are 5 names to watch

The Memphis Grizzlies have rarely gone the expected route during the NBA Draft under general manager Zach Kleiman. Most conversations this offseason have been about the Grizzlies trading up or staying put at No. 9 in the first round.

The idea of trading back is a realistic and plausible option. There isn't a lot of separation between prospects projected to go in the middle of the first round and that's something Memphis can take advantage of by gaining additional draft assets and trading back slightly to get a similarly graded player.

Another option the Grizzlies could explore is attaching one of the team's lower valued players with the No. 9 pick and moving back. This would create the roster space Memphis needs while dealing with a current roster crunch.

Memphis has its core of stars locked up under contracts, so now is all about placing the perfect complementary pieces around them. Trading back in the first round won't hurt the Grizzlies' chances of doing that.

Here are five players who make sense as potential trade-back options.

Kel'el Ware, C Indiana

Height/weight: 7-foot-1, 230 pounds

Ware is projected to go 17th to the Los Angeles Lakers in the Commercial Appeal's most recent mock draft. A former five-star recruit, Ware is one of the most naturally talented bigs in the draft due to his combination of size, offensive skill and athleticism. Dereck Lively's playoff impact certainly helped the chances of a player like Ware who has a somewhat similar skillset. There are motor questions, but the talent is undeniable.

Zach Edey, C Purdue

Height/weight: 7-4, 299

Edey feels like a player whose career will be dictated by the role he's put in. If that's in Memphis, it would be a better fit than most teams. Memphis would allow Edey to spend most of his time in the paint and take advantage of his strengths as a rim protector, screener and finisher around the rim. The Grizzlies could also cover up his weaknesses with spacing and lateral mobility by having the twitchy Brandon Clarke replace him in certain matchups.

Yves Missi, C Baylor

Height/weight: 7-0, 230

Missi is projected to be one of the best defensive centers in this draft, and that would mesh well in Memphis. The Grizzlies starting lineup will consist of three players capable of averaging more than 20 points, so the priority around them should be players who are willing and able to do the dirty work. While Missi isn't the most polished player on this list and comes with rebounding concerns, he has the ability to thrive in a simplified role as a rim runner on offense and a paint protector on defense.

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Jared McCain, G Duke

Height/weight: 6-3, 205

While Luke Kennard's future remains in question, another high-level shooter from Duke should be available in the mid-first round range. McCain was consistent as a shooter and despite his height, he was a tenacious rebounder for the Blue Devils. If McCain can unlock another level of playmaking in the NBA, he can be one of the best offensive players in the draft.

Ryan Dunn, G/F Virginia

Height/weight: 6-8, 216

If you're looking for the best wing defender in the draft, look no further than Dunn. He has the athleticism, the measurables and gives the effort to be an impact defender from Day One. Dunn could be the best defensive prospect to come out of Virginia in the Tony Bennett era, and that's saying something for a program that is known for stopping opponents. For Dunn, his career trajectory will be determined by his offensive progress. He only shot 23.5% on 3-pointers in less than one attempt per game in two seasons. He shot over 60% elsewhere, showcasing an ability to adapt when defenses disrespect his shot.

Damichael Cole is the Memphis Grizzlies beat writer for The Commercial Appeal. Contact Damichael at damichael.cole@commercialappeal.com. Follow Damichael on X, formerly known as Twitter, @DamichaelC.

This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: Five names to know if Memphis Grizzlies trade down in 2024 NBA Draft