Memphis Grizzlies: 3 Possible trade-up targets on NBA Draft night

Jarace Walker: Trade up to No. 6

The Memphis Grizzlies have built themselves on strong defensive versatility over the last few years, and that started to fade as this season went on. Adding a defensive stopper like Jarace Walker, who still has some offensive upside could be a great fit next to Jaren Jackson Jr.

In his one year at Houston, Walker was a huge part of a team that was first in the AAC. Jarace has strong defensive versatility. He can protect the rim, defend the pick and roll, and guard perimeter players. Next to Jaren Jackson Jr., the two would stifle many offenses around the NBA.

Apart from defense, Walker can be a great connector piece on offense. Jarace is a really good passer in the short roll and has a decent floater as well. He even shot the 3-ball formidably at 35%. If he can shoot the 3 at the rate he did in college, that will be good enough. In terms of frame, Walker is built for the league. Being 6-foot-8, 250 pounds with an almost 7-foot-3 wingspan is exactly what NBA executives will be looking for.

The only question with Walker is how consistently he can impact the game on offense.

Walker would add a combination of defensive and offensive utility to the Grizzlies that could be really interesting. This would slot Jaren Jackson Jr. to the 5, which is a little different than normal for him, but I think the fit really works. Bulking up in the frontcourt (an area that Memphis lacked during the playoffs due to injuries and other reasons) would really be a smart move.

Orlando might be open to moving out of the 6th pick considering their roster configuration, and Memphis could swoop in and select Walker here. Yet again a package surrounding Ziaire Williams and a future first or two could entice the Magic into a trade.