It is no secret that the Grizzlies have to boost their frontcourt depth behind Zach Edey this summer. Edey has shown significant promise, but the Grizzlies must have a contingency plan in case there are long-term concerns with his ankle. Unfortunately, there is one less option for the Grizzlies that could be an Edey backup, as Motiejus Krivas is returning to Arizona for the 2026-27 season.
Motiejus Krivas had previously been mocked to the Grizzlies 32nd overall by Adel Burton of Memphis Grizzlies on SI. While that would've been an amazing scenario for the Grizzlies, it is possible he could've snuck into the first round of a loaded 2026 NBA Draft. Who knows, maybe with the rise of first-round bigs in last year's class such as Yang Hansen and Yanic Konan Niederhauser, Krivas could've even found his way to the Grizzlies at the 16th overall pick.
However, Krivas made the decision to return to Arizona and will look to become one of the biggest risers of the 2026 NBA Draft. Now the Grizzlies have one less option to consider as they look for more depth behind Zach Edey.
Krivas would've been a good fit for the Grizzlies
Motiejus Krivas has spent his whole collegiate career with the Arizona Wildcats and was coming off a strong junior season. In 39 games this past season, Krivas averaged 10.4 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 2.6 stocks (steals and blocks) in 25.4 minutes. It was a strong breakout campaign given the fact Krivas had started just one game in his first two seasons before starting in all 39 games this year.
Listed at 7-foot-2 and 260 pounds, it would've been extremely fun to pair Krivas with another 7-footer like Zach Edey. While not the best athlete, Krivas is a quality rebounder and sets great screens. He is also a quality rim protector even though he might not defend as well in open space at the NBA level. Krivas had all the makings of being a strong answer for the Grizzlies' non-Edey minutes.
Grizzlies simply need to boost their frontcourt
Arguably the biggest roster-building priority for the Grizzlies is making legitimate upgrades to the frontcourt. It is obviously great to see how much of a valuable presence Zach Edey was evolving into. Unfortunately, after Edey reinjured his ankle in December, the Grizzlies had no answers defensively and clearly could not handle Zach Edey's absence.
To make matters worse, Santi Aldama and Brandon Clarke missed plenty of games due to injury. While Jock Landale was a strong offensive presence before being traded, he struggled significantly as a rim protector. The Grizzlies must find more frontcourt options that are strong defensively while also being able to rebound and set good screens.
Zach Edey already had a strong impact on winning, and the Grizzlies now have to find an answer to the minutes he's off the floor. Motiejus Krivas would have been a strong choice to boost the Grizzlies' frontcourt, but now they will have to pursue other options via draft and free agency.
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