The Peculiar Evolution of the 2019 NBA Draft Class

The 2019 NBA Draft was heralded as one of the most talent-rich drafts in recent memory. Featuring phenoms like Zion Williamson, Ja Morant, and RJ Barrett, it was expected to produce the next generation of NBA superstars. Five years later, however, the class of 2019 has aged in unexpected ways. While the draft produced immediate impact players, many of them have simultaneously hit roadblocks in their careers, both on and off the court. This article delves into the unusual trajectory of the 2019 draft class and examines how their early promise has evolved over the years.

The High Expectations and Immediate Impact

The tail end of the 2010s saw NBA drafts that were remarkably fruitful. The 2017 draft, for instance, might go down as one of the best ever, producing stars like Jayson Tatum, De’Aaron Fox, Donovan Mitchell, and Bam Adebayo. Similarly, the 2018 draft brought us Luka Dončić, Trae Young, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Jalen Brunson. These classes didn’t just have star power; they also provided a deep pool of productive role players.

The 2019 draft was expected to continue this trend. Zion Williamson was the clear number one pick, drawing comparisons to LeBron James due to his exceptional athleticism and physical prowess. Ja Morant, selected second overall, was anticipated to be a transformative point guard. Early on, these players lived up to the hype. Zion dominated when healthy, and Ja electrified audiences with his explosive play.

Zion Williamson: A Tale of Unfulfilled Potential

Entering the NBA, Zion Williamson was burdened with immense expectations. His combination of size, speed, strength, and leaping ability was unprecedented. However, injuries have plagued his career from the outset. Zion has played in only about 37% of possible games during his first four seasons. His sporadic availability has hindered both his development and the New Orleans Pelicans’ ability to build around him.

When Zion is on the court, he’s a force to be reckoned with. His second season showcased numbers comparable to LeBron James’s sophomore year, albeit in fewer minutes. Yet, his inability to stay healthy has stalled his career. Notably, his most significant games often come against LeBron, the player to whom he’s frequently compared. In a crucial play-in game against the Los Angeles Lakers, Zion scored 40 points before an injury forced him out, epitomizing the “what could have been” narrative that surrounds him.

As Zion approaches the next phase of his career, questions linger about his durability and commitment. He’s lost significant earnings due to not making All-NBA teams and missing out on endorsement deals. While he appears slimmer and more focused ahead of the upcoming season, skepticism remains about whether he can shed the injury-prone label.

Ja Morant: The Rise and Stumble of a Young Star

Ja Morant burst onto the NBA scene as one of the most electrifying players in the league. In his healthy seasons, he’s been among the few players to average at least 26 points and seven assists per game. His impact on the Memphis Grizzlies has been profound, leading them to numerous victories and playoff appearances.

However, Morant’s off-court issues have started to overshadow his on-court brilliance. Repeated incidents involving firearms and subsequent suspensions have tarnished his image. At a time when he could be solidifying his status as one of the league’s premier players, he’s instead facing questions about his judgment and maturity.

Despite these setbacks, there’s optimism about Morant’s future. Many believe he has the talent and determination to bounce back and continue his ascent. With the right support and personal growth, he could still fulfill the immense potential he displayed early in his career.

Darius Garland: A Star Needing a New Stage?

Darius Garland, the fifth overall pick in 2019, showcased significant growth in his third season. He became the engine of the Cleveland Cavaliers’ offense, averaging over 20 points and eight assists per game. His playmaking abilities and leadership were evident as he orchestrated the team’s attack.

The arrival of Donovan Mitchell, however, has complicated Garland’s role. Sharing the backcourt with another ball-dominant guard has led to a decrease in his statistics across the board. His points, assists, shot attempts, and usage rate have all declined, while Mitchell has thrived.

This situation mirrors the Cavs’ previous dilemma with Collin Sexton, another talented guard whose development clashed with Garland’s emergence. The team eventually moved on from Sexton, and there’s speculation that Garland might benefit from a change of scenery as well. For Garland to reach his full potential, he may need to be in a system where he can be the primary playmaker.

Tyler Herro: The Unlucky X-Factor

Tyler Herro’s rookie season was nothing short of sensational. Drafted 13th overall by the Miami Heat, he played a pivotal role in their run to the NBA Finals during the 2020 bubble playoffs, increasing his scoring average in the postseason. His ability to create his own shot and handle the ball made him a valuable asset.

However, Herro’s career has been hampered by injuries and constant trade rumors. In his third season, he accepted a bench role and excelled, earning the Sixth Man of the Year award. Unfortunately, he missed the Eastern Conference Finals, where his scoring could have made a difference in the Heat’s seven-game series loss.

The following seasons have been marred by more injuries. Herro missed significant playoff time in both 2022 and 2023, and the Heat have struggled without his offensive contributions. His absence in crucial moments has been a source of frustration for both him and the organization. As the Heat continue to rely heavily on undrafted players and a strong team culture, Herro’s unique skill set remains essential—but only if he can stay on the court.

Jordan Poole: A Meteoric Rise and Fall

Jordan Poole, selected 28th overall by the Golden State Warriors, is perhaps the most surprising story from the 2019 draft. Initially considered a developmental player, Poole exploded onto the scene during the Warriors’ 2022 championship run. With Stephen Curry injured for a significant portion of the season, Poole stepped up, averaging nearly 25 points per game on impressive shooting splits.

In the playoffs, Poole continued his stellar play, especially when Curry was still recovering. His performances were instrumental in the Warriors’ early series victories. However, following the championship, things took a turn. An altercation with teammate Draymond Green, where Poole was reportedly punched, seemed to derail his confidence and focus.

Since that incident, Poole’s production has declined. Many speculate that the fallout from the altercation affected him psychologically. While he secured a lucrative contract extension, his on-court struggles led to his eventual trade to the Washington Wizards. The hope is that a fresh start will help Poole rediscover his form.

Conclusion: A Class at a Crossroads

The 2019 NBA Draft class entered the league with immense promise and delivered immediate excitement. However, five years in, many of its brightest stars find themselves at a crossroads. Injuries, off-court issues, and team dynamics have all played a role in stalling their trajectories.

Zion Williamson and Ja Morant have the talent to be generational players, but both need to overcome significant hurdles to reach that level. Darius Garland may require a new environment to showcase his full capabilities, while Tyler Herro’s health is critical for him to make a lasting impact. Jordan Poole’s situation serves as a reminder of how quickly fortunes can change in the NBA.

As these players navigate the next stages of their careers, the 2019 draft class remains an intriguing mix of potential and uncertainty. Their stories are still being written, and there’s ample time for them to redefine their legacies. For fans and analysts alike, watching how this talented group evolves will be fascinating in the years to come.