2021 NBA Mock Draft — 17. Chris Duarte, Memphis Grizzlies
The Grizzlies have made a habit of selecting solid, playable, well-rounded prospects. Brandon Clarke and Desmond Bane fell into their laps because of “age,” and yet both will play important roles in Memphis’ future. Chris Duarte fits in a similar vein. He’s 24, the oldest prospect slated for the first-round, and an easily projectable NBA talent.
Duarte played a sizable role in Oregon’s success last season. He’s a great shooter who can spray it from all over the court. The Grizzlies need more juice on the perimeter still, and Duarte’s confident stroke would help. He and Bane can stretch the floor, while Ja Morant picks the middle of defenses apart.
At 6-foot-6, Duarte also has good size and an admirable mentality on defense. He hustles and knows how to use his tools, even if he’s not an elite athlete. The Grizzlies just need a player who can hit 3s, play smart team basketball, and work hard. Duarte checks every box.