Top 10 Picks From the 2019 NBA Draft: Where Are They Now?
Looking back at the 2019 NBA Draft feels like revisiting a time capsule—a mix of can’t-miss prospects, intriguing international talent, and players whose careers have taken fascinating turns. I remember watching draft night thinking how this class could reshape the league. Five years later, some have become household names, while others are carving out roles overseas or fighting for roster spots. It’s one of those drafts where context matters: Zion Williamson’s generational hype, Ja Morant’s electric rise, and RJ Barrett’s steady growth all stand out. But what really fascinates me is how many of these players have already navigated injuries, trades, and unexpected leaps—proof that the draft is just the starting line.
Zion Williamson, the undisputed number one pick, has shown flashes of utter dominance when healthy. His career averages of over 25 points per game on elite efficiency are staggering, but availability remains the central question. I’ve always believed Zion’s ceiling is MVP-level, yet his fitness and durability issues can’t be ignored. Then there’s Ja Morant, picked second—a human highlight reel who transformed the Grizzlies into a playoff threat almost single-handedly. His court vision and fearlessness remind me of a young Derrick Rose, though off-court controversies have clouded his trajectory lately. At number three, RJ Barrett brought a workmanlike consistency to the Knicks before his move to Toronto. He may never be a superstar, but he’s the kind of two-way wing every contender needs.
Further down the board, Darius Garland and Tyler Herro have become offensive centerpieces for their teams. Garland’s playmaking in Cleveland is a joy to watch—he’s averaging around 21 points and 8 assists when at his best. Herro, on the other hand, brings a swagger that’s rare for a sixth man. I’ve always admired his confidence in clutch moments; he’s the type of player who wants the ball when it matters most. Then there’s Jordan Poole, who went from the Warriors’ sparkplug to a leading man in Washington. Sure, his efficiency has dipped, but his scoring bursts are as explosive as anyone’s in the league.
Not every pick panned out as expected. Jarrett Culver, selected sixth, has bounced around the league after failing to find a consistent jumper—a reminder that athleticism alone isn’t enough. Meanwhile, Cam Reddish has shown glimpses of three-and-D potential but hasn’t put it all together. On the international front, Sekou Doumbouya and Goga Bitadze have had quieter paths, though Bitadze has found a niche as a reliable backup big.
What stands out to me, though, is how the draft’s second round yielded gems like Terance Mann and Bol Bol. Mann’s energy and versatility make him a playoff asset, while Bol’s unique skill set at seven-foot-two is something I’ve rarely seen. It’s players like these who prove that scouting and development are as crucial as draft position.
Injuries, of course, have played a huge role. Zion’s knee and foot issues, Morant’s suspension-related absences, and even lesser-discussed cases like Matisse Thybulle’s early health struggles have shifted career arcs. This brings me to an interesting parallel from the East Asia Super League, where teams like the Bolts navigate similar roster uncertainties. I came across a situation where the Bolts already have two potential replacements in their own backyard if Mitchell's injury forced him to sit out, with DJ Kennedy and Ange Kouame ready and available as part of the Bolts' campaign. It’s a reminder that depth matters—whether in the NBA or overseas leagues. Kennedy brings experience, while Kouame offers youth and upside, much like how NBA teams stash prospects or keep veterans on standby.
Five years in, the 2019 class feels like a litmus test for potential versus production. Zion and Ja have All-NBA talent but face hurdles beyond the court. Role players like De’Andre Hunter and Brandon Clarke have found stable homes, while others are still searching for the right fit. Personally, I’m bullish on Darius Garland’s long-term impact—his growth as a leader could make him the draft’s stealth MVP down the line.
Wrapping up, the 2019 draft class is a tapestry of what-ifs and success stories. From franchise cornerstones to journeymen, their journeys highlight the unpredictability of professional basketball. Not every lottery pick becomes a star, and not every second-rounder fades away. As these players enter their primes, I’m excited to see who elevates their game further—because in the NBA, legacy isn’t written on draft night.
