The 2024 NBA draft is here, and the Memphis Grizzlies will soon be on the clock.

Before the season, there weren't many, if any, who would have projected that Memphis would be picking in the top 10 of the upcoming draft. As the season unfolded, ending up at nine felt like a disappointment after the Grizzlies were projected to have a higher pick.

A talented Grizzlies roster looking to get back to the playoffs will now add what should be one of the better players in the NBA draft. Shooting, perimeter defense and a big stand out as three areas of need.

Here are nine draft candidates for the Grizzlies during today's first round (7 p.m., ESPN/ABC).

Donovan Clingan, sophomore UConn center

The Grizzlies need frontcourt help, and the 7-foot-3 national champion is arguably the center who is best suited to play from day one and make an impact in the draft.

Dalton Knecht, senior Tennessee guard/forward

The appeal of Dalton Knecht lies in his ability as a high-level shooter and scorer. Memphis needs to surround its core with better shooters, and Knecht is one of the best options available

Ron Holland, G League Ignite forward

On talent alone, the Grizzlies getting Holland would be a slam dunk. However, questions on his shooting and playmaking are reason for concern with a fit in Memphis. His athleticism and transition scoring ability stand out. Memphis would need him to knock down shots while playing alongside of Ja Morant and Desmond Bane.

Devin Carter, junior Providence guard

Memphis needs more three-and-d caliber players on the perimeter, and Carter projects to be that. He is one of the best two-way players in this draft, and it doesn't hurt that his father is an assistant on the Grizzlies staff.

Cody Williams, freshman Colorado forward

Whichever team takes Williams is betting on the upside. He looks like someone who could be the best player in this draft. He can shoot, defend and has the size to play multiple forward spots. His freshman season was inconsistent to the point where he wasn't including in closing lineups at the end of the year.

NBA DRAFT UPDATES: 2024 NBA Draft live updates: Who will Memphis Grizzlies take with No. 9 pick?

Stephon Castle, freshman UConn guard

Another national champion, Castle thrived in a reduced role at UConn in which he showed his potential as a plus NBA defender. His combo guard skills would fit smoothly in Memphis, but he needs to become a better shooter.

Zach Edey, senior Purdue center

Another center who should be ready to play from day one is Edey. He will face questions about adjusting to the NBA's spacing, but the two-time collegiate player of the year should be a force in the paint on both ends of the floor.

Kel'el Ware, sophomore Indiana center

Ware has a chance to be this year's Dereck Lively. He's an athletic lob threat with a strong offensive skill set who could thrived in a reduced role as a rookie. Ware is capable of making 3-poiters and blocking shots. Questions about his motor and inconsistency remain, but he is one of the most talented centers in the draft.

Yves Missi, freshman Baylor center

Missi flashed a high ceiling in his one season of college basketball. He is another center who could thrive in a simplified role on the Grizzlies where he isn't asked to do a lot offensively. On defense, he is a capable rim protector. Rebounding concerns make him an imperfect fit, but he's just 20 years of age.

Damichael Cole is the Memphis Grizzlies beat writer for The Commercial Appeal. Contact Damichael at damichael.cole@commercialappeal.com. Follow Damichael on X, formerly known as Twitter, @DamichaelC.

This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: Nine first-round options for the Grizzlies in the 2024 NBA draft