This past season was a painful one for the Grizzlies, full of injuries and eventually a committed effort to tanking. Luckily for them, they have a golden opportunity to put that pain behind them relatively fast. The third overall pick is crucial, but with how strong the 2026 NBA Draft is on paper, the Grizzlies have a golden opportunity to follow the same draft strategy that landed them Cedric Coward.
The Grizzlies should feel good about the fact that they own picks #3, #16, and #32 and can significantly accelerate their rebuild in one summer. Obviously, the most exciting part is that the Grizzlies will likely land one of Darryn Peterson or Cam Boozer third overall.
But now, they can make their draft haul significantly stronger if they can successfully trade up from the 16th pick.
The Grizzlies should try to move up from #16 two years in a row
Last night, Jake Fischer discussed the possibility of the Mavericks trading back from the 9th overall pick (subscription required). When discussing potential trade partners, Fischer named the Pelicans who are hoping to get a top-10 pick.
Most importantly, he named the Grizzlies as another option. He wrote, "sources say that Memphis, currently holding No. 16 following the Grizzlies' top-tier pick at No. 3, is indeed exploring avenues to move up and generate a second crack at lottery talent."
Fischer also mentioned the recent example of the Grizzlies moving up from #16 to #11 to select Cedric Coward last summer. It is no secret that Zach Kleiman is willing to trade draft picks, and the same possibility should not be counted out this summer.
The Grizzlies have no logical reason to trade the #3 pick, but trading up from #16 and getting back into the lottery is something that must be explored this year. Trading up for Cedric Coward has proven to be a huge success despite the assets they gave up.
Another angle to consider is that last year's #16 pick and this year's #16 pick were both acquired by the Grizzlies from the Desmond Bane trade. If the Grizzlies successfully move up from #16 this year, the Desmond Bane trade could end up looking even better for the team soon.
The Grizzlies could have a very promising core if they trade up
When trading up to #11 for Coward last year, the Grizzlies gave up pick #16, a 2028 first-round pick (via Orlando), and two future second-round picks to the Blazers. On paper, that's a strong haul to give up, but it has clearly worked out for the Grizzlies. Cedric Coward has the makings of a solid foundational piece in Memphis for years to come.
If the Grizzlies end up moving as high as #9, they would have to give up plenty of future draft capital to move up seven spots. However, the Grizzlies have 12 first-round picks in the next seven years and are in the perfect position to move up in this year's draft, even if they slightly overpay.
Between Cedric Coward, Zach Edey, and either Darryn Peterson or Cam Boozer, the Grizzlies have a golden opportunity to round out a super promising young core. Potential options if the Grizzlies successfully get the 9th overall pick could include players such as Brayden Burries, Morez Johnson Jr., or even Johnson Jr.'s Michigan teammate Yaxel Lendeborg.
The Grizzlies could still end up in a good position if they stay at #16, but seeing the success they had trading up to get Cedric Coward last year should inspire them to get bold in a strong 2026 NBA Draft.
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