Utah Jazz: Way too early predictions for 2019-20 Western Conference standings

15. Memphis Grizzlies

I debated back and forth on which team should be at the bottom of the pack and ultimately went with the Memphis Grizzlies. A large reason for this is that Memphis’ 2020 NBA Draft pick is top-6 projected, meaning that if they want to keep that pick, they’ll have to hope they rack up enough losses to better their lottery odds.

There is an argument to be had that perhaps they’ll care less about keeping their 2020 pick and want to assure they get their 2021 pick (in what should be a deep draft) that will be headed to the Boston Celtics if the 2020 one remains protected, but that’s a whole other angle that likely isn’t all that top-of-mind for the Grizzlies at the moment.

That aside, this is undoubtedly a rebuilding year for the Grizzlies. Rookie phenom Ja Morant will get ample opportunities to shine and Jaren Jackson Jr. should continue to showcase what a bright future he has, but overall this team will be far outmatched when pitted against other Western Conference foes.

Their young, intriguing talent alongside gritty veterans such as Andre Iguodala (unless he’s traded, which seems likely) and Jae Crowder will make this a tough team to face, but not one that racks up a lot of wins.