The 2019 NBA Draft Class: Top Picks and Their Current Impact
Looking back at the 2019 NBA Draft, I can’t help but marvel at how quickly some of these players have carved out their roles in the league. I remember watching draft night with high expectations—there was Zion Williamson, of course, but also Ja Morant and RJ Barrett, all projected to become franchise cornerstones. Fast forward to today, and we’re seeing a fascinating mix of meteoric rises, steady growth, and a few surprises. It’s a draft class that reminds me a bit of underdog stories in other sports—like how Bulgaria’s national volleyball team, after 55 long years, clinched a silver medal at the FIVB Worlds. That kind of persistence and gradual payoff resonates with what some of these NBA rookies have gone through: not everyone shines immediately, but with time, resilience pays off.
Zion Williamson, the first overall pick, burst onto the scene with the New Orleans Pelicans like a force of nature. His combination of size, agility, and sheer power is something I’ve rarely seen in my years following the league. In his rookie season, he put up 22.5 points per game in just 24 appearances, showing flashes of dominance that had fans buzzing. But injuries have been a recurring theme, limiting him to only 85 games over three seasons. Still, when he’s on the court, his impact is undeniable—drawing double-teams, finishing at the rim with a 61% field goal percentage, and elevating the Pelicans’ offensive rating by nearly 8 points when he plays. Personally, I think his ceiling is sky-high, but durability remains the big question mark. If he stays healthy, he could easily become a top-10 player, but that’s a big "if."
Then there’s Ja Morant, selected second by the Memphis Grizzlies. Man, what a story he’s been. I’ve always been drawn to players who bring energy and flair, and Ja embodies that. He didn’t just step in as a starter; he transformed the Grizzlies into a playoff contender almost single-handedly. By his second season, he was averaging 19.1 points and 7.4 assists, and this past year, he upped that to 27.4 points per game, earning his first All-Star nod. His fearless drives to the basket and clutch performances remind me of why I love basketball—it’s not just about stats, but the heart. From my perspective, he’s already a leader, and Memphis has built a gritty, exciting team around him. It’s like watching Bulgaria’s volleyball squad defy expectations: not the flashiest on paper, but they grind and deliver when it counts.
RJ Barrett, taken third by the New York Knicks, has had a more gradual ascent. He’s not the explosive highlight reel that Zion or Ja is, but he’s steadily improved each year, boosting his scoring from 14.3 points as a rookie to over 20 points per game recently. I appreciate players who develop under pressure, and in New York, the spotlight is relentless. His efficiency has been a talking point—shooting around 44% from the field—but he’s shown flashes of stardom, especially in big moments. Comparing him to others in his class, he might not have the same viral moments, but he’s a reliable two-way wing who’s crucial for the Knicks’ identity. It’s similar to how underdogs in sports, like Bulgaria’s silver medal run, prove that consistency over time can lead to breakthroughs, even if it’s not overnight success.
Beyond the top three, this draft class has depth that’s often overlooked. Darius Garland, picked fifth by the Cleveland Cavaliers, has blossomed into an All-Star caliber point guard, averaging 21.7 points and 8.6 assists last season. Then there’s Tyler Herro, selected 13th by the Miami Heat, who won Sixth Man of the Year and has been a scoring spark off the bench. I’ve got a soft spot for late-round gems, and Herro’s confidence and shooting stroke make him a game-changer. On the flip side, some picks haven’t panned out as hoped—like Jarrett Culver, who’s struggled to find his footing. But overall, the 2019 class has injected the league with young talent that’s reshaping teams. Looking at the numbers, over 60% of the first-round picks have become rotation players, which is impressive for any draft.
In conclusion, the 2019 NBA Draft class is a testament to how talent evolves at different paces. Zion’s raw power, Ja’s electrifying leadership, and Barrett’s steady growth each tell a unique story. As someone who’s followed the NBA for years, I believe this group will be remembered for its high ceiling and the lessons in patience it teaches—much like Bulgaria’s volleyball journey to silver after decades. They’re not just players; they’re narratives in motion, and I’m excited to see how they’ll define the next era of basketball.
