Projecting Where RJ Barrett Will Be Selected After 2019 NBA Draft Lottery

Now that the 2019 NBA draft lottery is set, it appears we have a better idea of where Duke's RJ Barrett will land.

With teammate Zion Williamson expected to go at No. 1 regardless of how the lottery played out, the battle for the No. 2 spot between Barrett and Ja Morant will likely come down to fit.

Barrett is the score-first wing who got the nickname Maple Mamba for his relentlessness with the ball (and for his propensity to keep gunning when the shots aren't falling). Morant is the explosive point guard who garnered Russell Westbrook comparisons after coming out of nowhere at Murray State.

There may be some teams that push Darius Garland or Jarrett Culver up their draft boards, but the top three in this class has a relative consensus. Now that the order is settled—barring trade—the easiest way to mock this out is with Barrett going No. 2 to the Memphis Grizzlies. 

The 6'7" swingman is a natural long-term fit with Jaren Jackson Jr., and the Grizzlies could use his ability to create for himself and relentless aggressiveness. Considered the consensus No. 1 prospect in the country when he arrived at Duke, Barrett could arguably be better suited for the NBA game. He's going to be surrounded by better shooters almost wherever he goes, and there is still hope he can develop into a plus three-point shooter.

The Grizzlies ranked 27th in offensive efficiency last season and could clearly use a foundational score-first piece. Jackson is a versatile offensive threat, but he's still developing and projects more as an elite defender than a top scoring option. He's also a good enough shooter and spacer that Jackson and Barrett would create matchup issues on pick-and-rolls if Barrett becomes a better passer.

Memphis could take a long look at Morant as an heir apparent to Mike Conley, but the fit here is too good. 

At the very least, Barrett has all the makings of an All-Star and someone who should be a foundational piece for the Grizzlies.