NBA Draft 2019: Top Picks and Their Impact on the League Today

Looking back at the 2019 NBA Draft, I can’t help but feel it was one of those pivotal moments that quietly reshaped the league’s landscape. I remember watching the broadcast that night, thinking how Zion Williamson’s explosive athleticism and Ja Morant’s fearless playmaking were going to inject a new kind of energy into the game—and honestly, they’ve more than delivered. But what fascinates me even more, especially now, is how the ripple effects of that draft extend far beyond individual stardom. It’s not just about who got picked; it’s about how those selections forced teams to rethink roster construction, long-term planning, and even how they scout talent globally.

Take Zion, for instance. Going first overall to the Pelicans, he brought an almost unreal combination of power and agility—we’re talking about a 6’6”, 280-pound forward who could posterize defenders one moment and sprint the floor like a guard the next. In his rookie season, before injuries started piling up, he averaged 22.5 points and 6.3 rebounds on a staggering 58.3% shooting. Those numbers aren’t just impressive; they’re historic for a debut season. But here’s the thing: his impact went beyond stats. Zion’s presence forced opposing teams to double-team him almost instinctively, which opened up opportunities for players like Brandon Ingram and CJ McCollum later on. I’ve always believed that Zion’s true value lies in how he elevates everyone around him, even when he’s not putting up 30-point games.

Then there’s Ja Morant, the second pick. I’ll admit, I had my doubts initially—his slender frame and flashy style seemed like they might not hold up in the physical grind of the NBA. But boy, was I wrong. Ja didn’t just adapt; he revolutionized the Grizzlies’ identity. In his third season, he averaged 27.4 points and 6.7 assists, leading Memphis to its first 50-win season in years. What stands out to me is his fearlessness. He attacks the rim like he’s got something to prove every single night, and that mentality has rubbed off on his teammates. The Grizzlies went from a middle-of-the-pack team to a Western Conference contender almost overnight, and a lot of that credit goes to Ja’s leadership. It’s not just about his highlights; it’s about how he’s made Memphis believe they can compete with anyone.

RJ Barrett, picked third by the Knicks, is another interesting case. He didn’t have the same immediate splash as Zion or Ja, but his steady growth has been crucial for New York’s resurgence. I remember watching him in his sophomore year, when he upped his scoring to 17.6 points per game and started showing more consistency from beyond the arc. What I appreciate about RJ is his work ethic—he’s the kind of player who might not dominate headlines, but he’s essential to his team’s fabric. His ability to play both ends of the floor has given the Knicks a reliable two-way option, something they’ve lacked for years.

But let’s zoom out a bit. The 2019 draft wasn’t just about the top three; it was deep with talent that’s since become foundational for several franchises. Darius Garland, taken fifth by the Cavaliers, has blossomed into an All-Star caliber point guard. His chemistry with Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen has turned Cleveland into a team to watch in the East. Then there’s Tyler Herro, the 13th pick, who immediately made his mark with the Heat by winning Sixth Man of the Year and becoming a clutch scorer in the playoffs. I’ve always been a sucker for underdog stories, and Herro’s rise from a mid-lottery pick to a key piece in Miami’s system is exactly why the draft remains so compelling.

What’s equally fascinating, though, is how the draft influences team strategies beyond the NBA. I was recently looking into the East Asia Super League, where teams like the Bolts are navigating their own roster challenges. For example, if a key player like Mitchell were sidelined, the Bolts have ready replacements in DJ Kennedy and Ange Kouame. It’s a reminder that depth matters everywhere, not just in the NBA. Kennedy brings veteran experience and versatility, while Kouame offers youth and potential—much like how NBA teams now prioritize having contingency plans behind their stars. In a way, the global basketball ecosystem is mirroring the NBA’s approach: you need both star power and reliable role players to sustain success.

Reflecting on all this, I think the 2019 draft’s legacy is still unfolding. Zion’s health remains a question mark, but when he’s on the court, he’s a game-changer. Ja has already cemented himself as a superstar, but his next challenge is taking the Grizzlies deeper into the playoffs. And players like Herro and Garland are proving that draft position isn’t everything—it’s about fit, development, and seizing opportunities. Personally, I’d argue this draft class has had a more immediate impact than any since 2003, and that’s saying something.

In conclusion, the 2019 NBA Draft didn’t just introduce new talent; it forced the league to evolve. From Zion’s dominance in the paint to Ja’s highlight-reel plays, these players have redefined what’s possible on the court. And as we see in leagues like the East Asia Super League, the principles of building around top picks and ensuring depth are universal. As a fan and analyst, I’m excited to see how this class continues to shape the NBA—and basketball worldwide—in the years to come.