Mock Draft 3.0 – Predicting how the dominoes fall, with view to fit, shifts, and OKC Thunder best bet
player. 118. . F. Auburn. CHUMA OKEKE. 23
This pick will be conveyed to the Grizzlies. Memphis are just stockpiling at this point as they restructure for the future. That said, Okeke is a high quality, high character prospect. And, while this team needs to add vets the sights witnessed in the tournament with Okeke tore his ACL left two solid impressions. First that it was heartbreaking the injury occurred and second just how much he was adored by his teammates who mounted an effort to succeed without their leader.
Qualities like that can’t be taught. A player either has that innate ability to draw people together or they don’t. With the guard and frontcourt positions filling up in Memphis adding wings make sense and Chuma offers a serviceable option who can take time to heal and fit in with his new squad.
DeAndre Hunter, Chuma Okeke and Killian Tillie have withdrawn from the NBA Combine, the league office just informed all 30 teams that they will not be available for interviews tonight. Feel free to start speculating as to why (promises, etc).
— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) May 13, 2019
While the Grit and Grind era is over in Memphis it also doesn’t hurt Okeke does all those typical Grizzly effort actions the Grind House will love.