Memphis Grizzlies Sign Second-Rounder to a Huge Contract

The Memphis Grizzlies moved up in the draft to select 'their guy' and now they've signed him to a long-term contract. The team announced it has come to terms with second round pick, Xavier Tillman on a four-year deal.

Michigan State F Xavier Tillman Sr., -- the 35th pick in the draft -- is signing a four-year deal with the Memphis Grizzlies, sources tell ESPN. The Grizzlies moved up on draft night to secure Tillman Sr., in a trade.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) November 28, 2020

It's unusual for a team to sign a second-rounder to this length of a contract, but the team used some of its mid-level exception to make it happen.

Contract info for Xavier Tillman, Sr. in Memphis:

$4.6M guaranteed

20/21 $1.3M
21/22 $1.5M
22/23 $1.8M
23/24 $1.9M (Team)

Ranks behind Bruno Fernando (also done by @PrioritySports) as the most guaranteed $ of a 2nd rd. pick who played in the NBA right after he was drafted.
— Bobby Marks (@BobbyMarks42) November 29, 2020

The Grizzlies are expecting big things and see Tillman jumping into the rotation as early as next season.

Tillman is a 6'8 forward who put up impressive numbers at Michigan State. Last season he averaged 13.7 points, 10.3 rebounds and 2.1 blocks per game. Tillman was named the Big Ten Defensive Play of the Year, and the Grizzlies are hoping he can bring much of the same next season.