Former First Overall Pick the Memphis Grizzlies Must Consider Signing

This former first overall NBA draft pick is still a free agent

Farbod Esnaashari | 7 Hours Ago

Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (12) huddles with forward Dillon Brooks (24), forward Jaren Jackson Jr. (13) and guard Desmond Bane (22) during the second half against the Los Angeles Lakers at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: / Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports

In this story:Memphis GrizzliesOrlando Magic

While the Memphis Grizzlies aren't in dire need of a point guard, it's still a position the team has expressed in. That much was evident when they tried to acquire Tyus Jones before he ultimately signed with the Phoenix Suns in late July.

With that idea in mind, there's another solid point guard option that the Memphis Grizzlies should definitely consider for their roster. The 2017 first overall pick Markelle Fultz is still a free agent and could be a point guard option for the Memphis Grizzlies.

Markelle Fultz is playing the best basketball of his career right now. pic.twitter.com/mRS6Vi8Pyz

— Hilltop Hoops (@HilltopNBA) January 13, 2023

Fultz slowed down tremendously during the 2023-24 NBA season but had the best season of his career during 2022-23. Just two seasons ago, Fultz averaged 14.0 points, 5.7 assists, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.5 steals on 51/31/78 shooting from the field. This past season, he averaged 7.8 points, 2.8 assists, and 1.0 steals on 47/22/70 shooting from the field. Fultz's usage decreased tremendously, only averaging 21.2 minutes a game as opposed to 29.6 minutes.

The Memphis Grizzlies currently have Derrick Rose as their backup point guard for the team, however, he only played in 24 games last season. It's likely that the Grizzlies took his health as a factor when trying to make a move for Tyus Jones, and should consider it as a factor when considering Markelle Fultz. That being said, Derrick Rose is still a very capable backup point guard when healthy.

Ja Morant Excites Memphis Grizzlies Fans in Latest Workout Footage

Eight-Year NBA Veteran, Ex-Grizzlies Player Joins New Team in Portugal

Ja Morant Reacts to Viral LeBron James and Steph Curry Moment in USA-France