2024 NBA Mock Draft 5.0: Spurs find point guard, Raptors keep lottery selection
By Tyler Watts
7. Memphis Grizzlies draft Donovan Clingan
The Grizzlies did not expect to be near the bottom of the standings after three straight years in the playoffs, but Ja Morant playing just nine games sunk them. The only upside is Memphis adds another lottery pick to their young core. They need a big man after the departure of Steven Adams and could target one here.
Clingan helped the Huskies win two NCAA championships. The 7’2 big man was a backup as a freshman and broke out as a starter in year two. This season, he averaged 13.0 points, 7.4 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 2.5 blocks in 22.5 minutes per game. The Grizzlies need a strong rebounder and rim-protector next to Jaren Jackson Jr. in their frontcourt. Clingan has limitations, but will be impactful in his role.
How many minutes can the 20-year-old handle? He averaged 25.3 during the conference and NCAA tournaments and played over 30 just three times. Clingan will be a drop coverage big man in the NBA, and teams will hunt that matchup to attempt to play him off the floor. Expect his role to be limited early on with room to grow.
The Grizzlies get their Steven Adams replacement. They plan on being back in contention in 2025, and Clingan will be excited to join an immediate contender.