Now this pick is definitely going to cause some controversy. Despite Isaiah Evans being available for the Grizzlies at the 32nd overall pick, the Grizzlies instead went with BYU's Richie Saunders. At the pick after, the Timberwolves ended Evans' draft slide and could have one of the steals of the draft. Before diving into more detail, the Grizzlies may have just gifted the Timberwolves their dream pick.
There was trade interest from multiple teams about potentially acquiring the #32 pick; however, the Grizzlies ended up staying put. Having players such as Meleek Thomas and Isaiah Evans on the board at #32 felt like a dream scenario for the Grizzlies. Evans made perfect sense given his perimeter shooting ability and defensive upside.
It also helped that Isaiah Evans was a teammate of new Grizzlies pick Cam Boozer at Duke. Ultimately, the Grizzlies ended up selecting Richie Saunders.
Saunders is a good prospect but there is risk
This is not to knock Richie Saunders, as there is still so much to like. Richie Saunders was one of the best shooting prospects in this entire class. He also brings a tremendous motor and made strides as a playmaker and rebounder throughout his time at BYU. While he is still recovering from an ACL tear he suffered midseason, he is another competitive player who brings energy and solid off-ball offense to Memphis.
It is also important to consider that Saunders will be turning 25 years old before he plays his first game in the NBA. Even though he will bring a pro-ready skillset after coming back from injury, it is understandable to be frustrated with opting against upside in a strong 2026 NBA Draft. Isaiah Evans also had a strong case to go in the first round before sliding to the Timberwolves.
It is clear that teams that thrive in playoff basketball have a healthy mix of quality shooters and defenders alongside their stars. While Saunders can become a crucial shooter for the Grizzlies at some point, it is hard to not have been excited about Cam Boozer teaming up with Isaiah Evans. Evans is four years younger and could end up climbing into a pivotal role in the near future.
Given the fact that the Grizzlies must create room on their roster, it would make sense to get Saunders on a two-way as he recovers from injury. With Javon Small and Jahmai Mashack on two-way contracts, Saunders could fill the last two-way spot for the time being.
There is plenty to like about Richie Saunders, but the Grizzlies passing up on Isaiah Evans could end up being a huge gift for a Timberwolves team looking to catch up to the Thunder and Spurs.
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