The 2026 NBA Draft could be a significant turning point in franchise history for the Grizzlies, for better or worse. Even though there are a wide range of outcomes, good and bad, a recent mock draft from Damichael Cole and The Commercial Appeal would send an extremely strong message to the rest of the NBA if it ends up happening.
As the Grizzlies rebuild, it will be essential that they not only boost the scoring punch on the roster but also regain some of the toughness shown back in the Grit and Grind era. Despite being so early in the rebuild, the Grizzlies should still be looking to build championship habits in hopes of one day being able to bring Memphis their first NBA championship.
Let's take a closer look at the projected haul for the Grizzlies and why it would be incredible. Here are the three selections:
3. Cam Boozer, F, Duke
This one barely needs any explanation, but Cam Boozer is the dream choice for many Grizzlies fans and has been the most linked name at #3. Boozer is a well-rounded player who should immediately boost the Grizzlies as an offensive engine and rebounder. Alongside Zach Edey, Boozer should help to form one of the league's most physical frontcourts from Day 1.
Listed at 6 foot 9 and 253 pounds, Boozer is already physically imposing despite being just 18 years old. Similar to Zach Edey, Boozer could end up being a dominant physical force despite any pre-draft doubts about how his physicality will translate at the next level. It remains to be seen how high of a ceiling Boozer reaches, but his offense IQ and physical strength should give him a very safe floor.
16. Christian Anderson Jr., G, Texas Tech
Even though the Grizzlies will likely consider moving up from #16, they still have strong options if they stay at the pick. Players such as Hannes Steinbach, Dailyn Swain, and even Christian Anderson Jr. could fill key needs for the Grizzlies.
Listed at 6 foot 2 and 180 pounds, there is understandable skepticism about the Grizzlies taking another small guard. However, if selected, Anderson Jr. brings impressive shooting ability while having made significant growth in an increased role as a sophomore.
With questions surrounding the futures of multiple players in the backcourt, especially Ja Morant, Anderson Jr. could be a strong shooting and playmaking option that could thrive in Tuomas Iisalo's offense. Having multiple reliable halfcourt scorers and playmakers will help the Grizzlies speed up their rebuild.
32. Tarris Reed Jr., C, UConn
Now this one will likely not happen because Tarris Reed Jr. has built a convincing case to go in the first round. But if the Grizzlies remain at #32 and Reed Jr. is available, they simply have to take advantage. Landing a player of Reed Jr.'s caliber 32nd overall would add to the list of recent second-round draft steals the Grizzlies have had in the last few drafts.
Listed at 6 foot 11 and 265 pounds, Reed Jr. had a strong senior season for the Huskies, and his NCAA Tournament performances dramatically boosted his stock. Reed Jr. fits the tenacity that the Grizzlies desperately need as they continue to rebuild. The thought of adding Boozer and Reed Jr. to a frontcourt with Zach Edey should concern the rest of the league.
Given how much the Grizzlies struggled with Edey off the floor, Reed Jr. can bring more rebounding and rim protection. He is also a strong scorer in the post even though he will have to improve his foul discipline and keep working on his shooting touch for the next level.
This is a draft haul that solidifies the Grizzlies' frontcourt around Zach Edey and also gives the Grizzlies another strong option for their halfcourt offense. Even though the Grizzlies' roster will likely be very young heading into next year, they could lay a foundation that should put the rest of the NBA on notice.
Add us as a preferred source on Google