NBA: Way-too-early All-Rookie Team predictions for 2019-20

Point Guard: Ja Morant, Memphis Grizzlies

Trading Mike Conley Jr. ultimately proved that Morant was the leading the Memphis Grizzlies into a new direction. After speculation that the reigns of the franchise would be passed on around the trade deadline, the imminent came earlier.

Morant is a late-bloomer compared to highly touted recruits that were drafted after him (RJ Barrett and Cam Reddish). Morant came out of high school with Murray State, his eventual college, showing heavy interest. Murray State is a relatively known mid-major team with a handful of players being drafted but none ever reaching the status Morant recently accomplished. Morant in his last collegiate season posted 24.5 points, 10 assists, and 5.7 rebounds per game – leading Murray State to the second round of the NCAA Tournament last season.

Morant brings new energy to a team that has been through the slow Grit and Grind era and recently the last few seasons of unimportance. Morant will join last year’s NBA All-Rookie First Teamer Jaren Jackson, whom himself is a budding defensive star. Along with drafting bouncy rim runner Brandon Clarke, the Grizzlies have a formidable trio heading into the future.

The supporting cast for Morant is dependable, to say the least. There is depth behind Morant at the guard position, the wings are serviceable, and the frontcourt positions are full of talent. Morant will have a seamless easy transition from the college ranks to the league. His game is already better than the majority of the players in his position. His game is micro Russell Westbrook before Westbrook turned into a superhuman. Like his comparison, Morant has a quick first step, ultra bouncy, and makes his teammates better.

It is going to be hard for Morant to miss the First Team with the circumstances in his favor. Besides Williamson, his talent is next-level compared to the guards drafted alongside him.