Former No. 1 pick is perfect Derrick Rose replacement for Grizzlies

The Memphis Grizzlies waived a former No. 1 pick this week in Derrick Rose. Another former No. 1 pick could be the perfect replacement.

With Rose headed to retirement, or simply somewhere that isn't Memphis, the Grizzlies have an opening in their guard rotation, and an empty roster spot. There just so happens to be a free-agent point guard who fits this spot perfectly: Markelle Fultz.

Fultz was the top pick in the 2017 draft, but a series of injuries slowed his career before it began. A shoulder ailment limited him to only 33 games in two seasons with the Philadelphia 76ers after they took him at No. 1, with Fultz only receiving a diagnosis of thoracic outlet syndrome after a full season.

He emerged as a reliable point guard after a trade to the Orlando Magic, providing playmaking a solid defense, though not much shooting.

That's what the Grizzlies need, especially if they plan to use Marcus Smart alongside Ja Morant in the backcourt. As of now, Memphis has two-way player Scotty Pippen, Jr. as their backup point guard, with John Konchar as an emergency option. Given Morant and Smart's recent history of injuries, that's not enough ballhandling insurance.

Of course, Fultz has also been plagued by injuries during his seven-year career, which could give the Grizzlies pause. After a resurgent 2022-23 season where Fultz averaged 14 points and 5.7 assists while starting 60 games, knee issues limited Fultz to 43 games and just 18 starts in 2023-24.

Still, he's easily the most talented unsigned free agent available, with the potential to be one of the best backup points in the NBA.

There would be a certain poetry to a different unlucky former No. 1 pick succeeding Rose, and as an added bonus, Fultz's game fits nicely in Memphis. He's an excellent ball thief, and steals are one of the backbones of the Grizzlies defense.

He's still only 26 years old, and adding Fultz would allow Memphis to bring Pippen along slowly with another veteran mentor, while keeping him on his two-way deal.

Rose's departure may end up giving the Grizzlies the unexpected opportunity for what could be a very valuable upgrade.