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Jaylen Wells · Ignoring the unintended pun, it certainly wouldn’t have been an understatement to say that, eight games in, Jaylen Wells was already well on his way to earning the admiration and acclaim of the Memphis Grizzlies’ faithful. On the backs of a standout showing on November 6, 2024, though, the No. 39 pick soon discovered that his “fanclub” of sorts would require room for one more: future Hall of Famer LeBron James. Often among the beneficiaries of Memphis’ selfless, swing-the-rock offensive approach, Wells establishes shop along the right 3-point arc, with the generationally-great Los Angeles Lakers forward crouched ahead defensively. Fearlessly taking control of his could-be moment, Wells, following a subtle indecision, elevates into a contested trifecta, propelling the post-halftime Grizzlies into a momentous, borderline-game-changing run. Earning a respectful head-tap from “The King” thereafter, Wells parlayed said memory into a victory by game’s end, vaulting Memphis above .500. In the latest chapter of his steadily-built All-Rookie Team case, Wells recorded 20 points (on 7-of-10 shooting), three rebounds, one steal, five 3-pointers, and a +8 plus-minus. · State of Mint