The Memphis Grizzlies have a wide variety of paths that they could take in this year's draft. It's clear that the frontcourt depth needs to improve, and the Grizzlies could justifiably add another impact wing early. Those options deserve strong consideration, but there will be plenty of conversations about the Grizzlies finding their guard of the future.
The signs point to Ja Morant being moved this summer. Regardless, the Grizzlies would be wise to draft a young guard with any of their picks in this loaded 2026 NBA Draft. The Grizzlies have their own first-round pick, which should land at least in the top 8. The Grizzlies are also getting the best pick between the Magic and the Suns, which has a high likelihood of landing in the top 10.
If the Grizzlies end up selecting a guard inside the top 10, they have plenty of options to consider. Two of them happen to be playing against each other tonight in what should be a high-level March Madness matchup. Both are freshmen, but Houston's Kingston Flemings and Illinois' Keaton Wagler have stood out this season.
Flemings and Wagler are both intriguing prospects in the top 10
Kingston Flemings is currently averaging 16.2 points, 4 rebounds, and 5.2 assists in 31.5 minutes per game. Flemings is also adding 1.6 steals per game and has given the Cougars an impressive two-way impact.
Flemings is arguably the 5th best player in the entire draft, but some mock drafts have dropped him as low as 7th overall, given the recent rise of Arkansas freshman guard Darius Acuff Jr. Flemings would be an immediate boost to the talent level on the Grizzlies' roster.
Keaton Wagler is a very intriguing prospect in this draft. While Flemings could be seen as the safer pick, it is understandable as to why some would be interested in Wagler. Wagler is averaging 17.8 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 4.4 assists. Wagler has really stood out with his shooting ability and overall has a very strong offensive feel.
It has been a joy to watch Keaton Wagler's rise given that he was not a top-100 recruit going into this season. At 6 foot 6 and 185 pounds, Wagler has the length required to be a quality perimeter player, but he will have to gain muscle to help overcome NBA physicality. There are legitimate concerns with his burst, but improving his strength in the NBA could help him find significant success.
This is a very worthwhile matchup for Grizzlies fans
Houston has looked very impressive this season and has a very challenging defense to deal with. Illinois has had one of the best offenses in the entire country and has plenty of capable scoring options. Tonight's incredible Sweet Sixteen matchup could very well end up being decided by how well Keaton Wagler and Kingston Flemings perform.
Depending on how the draft lottery plays out, it cannot be ruled out that either Keaton Wagler or Kingston Flemings will be wearing a Grizzlies jersey next season.