We are likely still multiple years away from the Grizzlies returning to the playoffs. Luckily, they have a golden opportunity to get there sooner thanks to the 2026 NBA Draft. The Grizzlies can end up big winners this summer, but one thing is becoming increasingly clear from the NBA Playoffs. Cam Boozer's playstyle makes him the ideal fit for a Grizzlies team looking to speed up their rebuild.
Rightfully so, there have been plenty of debates to decide who the best prospect is between AJ Dybantsa, Darryn Peterson, and Cam Boozer. All three of those names have what it takes to make an enormous impact on the Grizzlies depending on how the board falls. A lot can still happen leading up to draft night, but the Grizzlies can still be happy regardless of who falls to #3.
However, when looking at who the best fit is for the Grizzlies in the top 3, it's becoming increasingly clear that it's Boozer.
Boozer brings pedigree and a skill set that should translate immediately
It is never easy to predict how a player will handle a playoff setting until they get there. Even though the Grizzlies are likely still a couple years away from competing in the NBA Playoffs, it would be ideal for whoever they draft this year to be a playoff riser. Now, if there is one advantage that could serve Boozer well in the NBA, he has already won plenty of individual and team accolades since high school.
Before even playing at Duke, Boozer won four state championships in high school alongside his brother Cayden at Christopher Columbus High School in Florida. Boozer was also a dominant force in the Nike EYBL circuit and won two FIBA gold medals along with U16 and U17 World Cup MVPs.
Boozer's success continued during his lone season at Duke, where he helped lead the Blue Devils to an Elite Eight and won the AP National Player of the Year award despite being a freshman. Boozer averaged 22.5 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 4.1 assists on strong efficiency and is definitely in the conversation as one of the best Duke prospects of the last few years.
Listed at 6 foot 9 and 250 pounds, some have voiced concerns about how Boozer's game will translate at the next level and if "bully ball" will work in the NBA. There is simply much more to Boozer's game even though his strength is already remarkable. Interestingly enough, current Grizzly Zach Edey also faced similar questions during the 2024 NBA Draft cycle.
Boozer is an incredibly gifted playmaker for a power forward and is also comfortable scoring out of many different play types. While he might not be as flashy as other top prospects in this draft, his ability in pick-and-roll as both a handler and roll man should help him right away. He is a tenacious rebounder, and it's impossible not to be excited about him playing next to Zach Edey.
Although the Grizzlies should feel confident in their choice regardless of who is available at #3, the NBA Playoffs are showing how well Boozer can fit in Memphis right away.
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