Grizzlies fans, the wait is finally over. Today is the first day of what should likely be a franchise-altering draft. Despite coming off a difficult 25-57 season, the Grizzlies own three top-32 picks and can potentially see a fast turnaround. Based on some of the latest draft intel, the Grizzlies have a clear path to landing Cam Boozer, and there are still more chances to add significant talent.
Having picks #3, #16, and #32, the Grizzlies are suddenly very close to making their dream 2026 NBA Draft a reality. The third overall pick is obviously the biggest cause for excitement, as it gives the Grizzlies a legitimate chance at landing a potential franchise cornerstone. But one thing is also true: The possibilities with picks #16 and #32 shouldn't be disregarded either.
The Boozer-to-Memphis dream felt perfect since the draft lottery
With the Grizzlies previously having the 6th-best lottery odds, it was a pleasant surprise to see them land at the third overall pick. Out of all the teams in the lottery, the Grizzlies are in a unique position since AJ Dybantsa, Darryn Peterson, and Cam Boozer all have strong cases to be the #1 prospect. Regardless of who falls, the Grizzlies are in a perfect situation to come out winners at the #3 pick.
Now, after having been linked to the Grizzlies the most out of those three names, it seems like the Cam Boozer to Memphis dream is very close to coming true. Since the draft lottery, the thought of having a Cam Boozer and Zach Edey frontcourt has always been an exciting one, and now we will likely get to see it.
Boozer and Edey would immediately become one of the most physical frontcourts in the NBA from Day 1, while also giving the Grizzlies an increased advantage in the possession battle.
There are multiple exciting paths with picks #16 and #32
Now this is where the Grizzlies can really emerge as big draft winners. After finding a potential franchise cornerstone at #3, they have significant flexibility at #16. They could justifiably stay at #16 and potentially be able to choose from players such as Hannes Steinbach, Cameron Carr, and Christian Anderson Jr.
However, given the strength of this class and the war chest of draft picks the Grizzlies have, they should strongly consider trading back up into the lottery, especially if Cam Boozer ends up being the selection. Adding a player such as Morez Johnson Jr. or Brayden Burries could help round out an intriguing young core alongside Cam Boozer, Zach Edey, and Cedric Coward.
It already helps that the Grizzlies used the Desmond Bane trade to move up for Cedric Coward while also acquiring this year's #16 pick in the deal. If the Grizzlies end up using pick #32 on day 2, the Grizzlies could have a potential steal waiting for them, such as Zuby Ejiofor or Joshua Jefferson.
Depending on what happens with pick #16, trading back up into the first from #32 or trading back from #32 for more future assets are both justifiable paths to take. Simply put: the Grizzlies have exciting options at picks #16 and #32.
Having picks #3, #16, and #32, the Grizzlies are in the perfect position to end up big winners of what should be a strong 2026 NBA Draft. With the flexibility the Grizzlies have, they are suddenly closer to turning their dream draft into reality.
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