The Grizzlies can pass the torch from Marc Gasol to Mo Bamba, handing their much-needed rebuild over to one of the best defensive prospects in recent memory. Standing around the 7-foot mark with a 7-foot-9 wingspan, Bamba would immediately become the longest player in the NBA.
Bamba got off to a slow start this season, but has turned things around as of late. He’s still raw offensively and floats around the perimeter too often, but should be able to use his length to finish around the rim and thrive as a roll man at the next level.
Defensively, he’s already averaging 4.4 blocks per game. Not per-40 minutes, per game. His unique length gives him the kind of game-breaking upside that few prospects have, something that should keep him in the top five regardless of where his offensive game stands. The potential is through the proverbial roof.