The Memphis Grizzlies appear poised to use the No. 16 pick acquired from trading Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic to draft Jase Richardson, the former Michigan State guard, in the 2025 NBA draft. This move aligns with their strategy to strengthen their roster around Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. while adding youthful talent to the team.
Draft Projections Place Richardson Higher After Bane’s Departure
Prominent NBA draft analyst Jonathan Givony, along with Jeremy Woo, predicts that the Grizzlies will select Richardson at No. 16, which is notably higher than another forecast by Jonathan Wasserman for Bleacher Report. Wasserman recently projected Richardson to go No. 24 to the Oklahoma City Thunder. Richardson, at 19 years old, impressed during his college career with Michigan State.
During 36 appearances and 15 starts, Richardson averaged 12.1 points per game, shooting 49.3 percent from the field and 41.2 percent from three-point range. These numbers highlight his efficiency and shooting ability, making him an appealing prospect for the Grizzlies.
Richardson’s Role and Fit Within Memphis’ Future
Givony emphasized Richardson’s defensive intensity and capacity to complement star players like Ja Morant, whose long-term presence in Memphis remains a key consideration. He noted,
“brings strong defensive intensity and looks adept at playing off the star power of a teammate like Ja Morant, whose future in Memphis is to be determined.”
—Jonathan Givony, Draft Analyst
Additionally, Givony mentioned the potential for Richardson to expand his offensive game over time, stating,
“As Richardson’s shot-creation diversity and offensive aggressiveness evolve, he could be someone who eventually inherits more significant ballhandling responsibilities, if the Grizzlies decide to pivot toward a youth movement.”
—Jonathan Givony, Draft Analyst
Trade Details and Memphis’ Commitment to Core Players
The Grizzlies acquired the pick from the Orlando Magic in exchange for Desmond Bane, with Memphis receiving veterans Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Cole Anthony, along with four first-round picks. Following the trade, ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that the team privately intends to maintain Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. as foundational pieces moving forward.
“are signaling privately that they will continue to build around Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr.”
—Shams Charania, NBA Insider
Charania also explained the strategy behind the roster changes, noting,
“The Grizzlies view this as a pivot away from that core of Desmond Bane, Ja Moranta and Jaren Jackson Jr., and allow this team to have a little more youth, a little more financial flexibility going forward.”
—Shams Charania, NBA Insider
Tim Bontemps of ESPN further clarified the Grizzlies’ intentions by reporting,
“the Grizzlies are not looking to deal either of their two remaining franchise cornerstones,”
—Tim Bontemps, NBA Reporter
Memphis is also expected to negotiate a long-term contract extension with Jaren Jackson Jr. before he becomes a free agent next spring, reflecting commitment to stability in their leadership core.
Memphis Weighs Richardson’s Compatibility Ahead of Draft Day
With plans centered around Morant and Jackson, the Grizzlies face a critical decision on whether Jase Richardson’s playing style and potential growth suit their vision for the team’s future. As the draft approaches on June 25, Memphis will evaluate if Richardson can thrive alongside their star guards and contribute meaningfully to a team in transition.
This prospective pick signals the franchise’s cautious yet hopeful approach in charting their roster’s next chapter while balancing youth, talent, and financial strategy.