The Memphis Grizzlies picked Washington State guard Jaylen Wells with the No. 39 pick in the second round of the 2024 NBA Draft on Thursday afternoon.

Wells is a 6-foot-7, 205-pound shooter who took an interesting path to the NBA Draft. He started his career at Division-II Sonoma State before transferring to Washington State and raising his game for the Cougars. He has plenty of potential and shot a 41.7 percent from three-point range in 2023-2024.

He joins Zach Edey as Grizzlies draftees. Edey was taken with the No. 9 pick in Wednesday's first round.

What grade does Memphis get for the pick?

Grizzlies NBA Draft grade for Jaylen Wells (Round 2, Pick 39)

Grade: B+

Wells is certainly an unknown who could have gone anywhere in the second round, and it's fair to wonder if he would've been available later in the draft. But he has legitimate potential as a wing who can score and defend multiple positions. He might not be a major contributor right away, but he could force his way onto the court if he can continue to shoot the three ball at a high clip.

The Grizzlies don't necessarily need Wells to be a ready-made rotation player right away, but he could develop. In the second round, drafting for potential, which worked out with last year's selection of GG Jackson, is a smart choice.

Shooting was a need coming into the second round for the Grizzlies, and Wells could fill that role. He's got a chance to be more than just a shooter and will give Memphis another wing option off the bench alongside Vince Williams Jr.

Reach sports writer Jonah Dylan at jonah.dylan@commercialappeal.com or on X @thejonahdylan.

This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: Grizzlies draft grade for selection of Washington State's Jaylen Wells