Allen Graves is easily one of the most interesting prospects to evaluate in the 2026 NBA Draft cycle so far. Despite coming off the bench for most of his freshman season at Santa Clara, Allen Graves is the exact type of analytical pick the Grizzlies like, and he could end up having a similar draft rise to Cedric Coward. In his latest mock draft, Christopher Kline of FanSided has the Grizzlies selecting Allen Graves with the 16th overall pick.
It is important to note that it is not a guarantee that Allen Graves will remain in this year's draft. Graves declared for the draft while also maintaining his college eligibility and entering the transfer portal. While different prospects, Cedric Coward's draft rise last year is exactly why the Graves pick in Kline's mock deserves further attention.
Cedric Coward had previously entered the 2025 NBA Draft and committed to Duke for the 2025-26 season. Duke likely would've had a strong chance to cut down the nets had Coward stayed in school; however, he had an impressive draft combine and did not withdraw his name from the NBA draft pool. Shortly after, the Grizzlies traded up to the 11th overall pick to draft Cedric Coward, and it is safe to say he exceeded expectations as a rookie.
The Grizzlies also selected popular draft target Kingston Flemings 8th overall and Joshua Jefferson 32nd overall in Kline's mock draft. But for now, the main focus will be on Allen Graves and how he could be a strong fit for the Grizzlies.
Allen Graves is an intriguing fit for the Grizzlies
The lack of starting experience will likely cause concern for plenty of fans, but it is understandable why the Grizzlies would like Graves. Listed at 6-foot-9, Graves also has a 7-foot wingspan and has shown plenty of two-way potential already.
Despite making just 4 starts in 35 games for Santa Clara, Graves averaged 11.8 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 1.8 assists in just 22.6 minutes per game. He also added 2.8 stocks (steals and blocks) per game, which is impressive given that he didn't play heavy minutes. Kline also mentioned that Graves had an outrageous 5.0 BLK% and 4.9 STL%, showing how truly special his defensive playmaking is.
Allen Graves is a very capable three-point shooter, and the motor he shows as a rebounder is exactly what the Grizzlies would like. Graves will have to work on fouling less on the defensive end, and there are also valid questions about how he would handle more offensive responsibility. Regardless, Allen Graves could be a significant draft combine riser and the dream analytical pick the Grizzlies like.
Grizzlies should aim for upside regardless of position
Even though plenty of focus will be on what happens to Ja Morant this summer, and if they find his successor in this draft, the important theme the Grizzlies must focus on for this draft is upside. The Grizzlies already have many willing competitors on the roster, but the way the rebuild will be successful is by finding their true stars and role players that can make winning plays.
It is likely beneficial for Allen Graves to transfer to a high-major school and play another season of college basketball. However, if Graves has a strong NBA Draft combine, he is a worthy upside swing for the Grizzlies. It will be interesting to monitor the team's draft possibilities, especially after the draft lottery. But one thing is certain: Allen Graves is the most intriguing name mocked to the Grizzlies yet.
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