The Grizzlies have a unique opportunity to significantly boost the talent level on the roster with how loaded the 2026 NBA Draft is. The word "rebuild" is never fun for a fanbase, especially with how promising the Grizzlies looked just a few seasons ago. While the current tanking situation is tough for Grizzlies fans, the 2026 NBA Draft could significantly accelerate any efforts to rebuild.
This summer, the Grizzlies will have two first-round picks. Their own pick should land in the top 8 and there is still a chance the pick ends up in the top 3. The other pick is a swap that will be the best pick of the Magic or the Suns, which should land in the 14-20 range. While most of the talk has been centered around the Grizzlies' first pick, the options are growing for their second first-round pick.
One option that the Grizzlies could end up considering is Dailyn Swain, a junior forward out of Texas.
There is plenty to like about Dailyn Swain's game
Dailyn Swain is absolutely showing signs of being a draft riser, especially with his strong start to this year's NCAA Tournament. Swain played his first two seasons of college basketball at Xavier before following Sean Miller to Texas before this season. He has made a significant leap this season, averaging 17.6 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game.
One of the biggest questions for Swain is how well he will shoot threes at the next level. Swain struggled as a 3-point shooter at Xavier and is shooting 34.4% from three this season, but on low volume. Despite the worries with his three-point shot, there is still plenty to like about his game.
At 6'7" and 200 pounds, Swain is a big wing that is able to score efficiently and get to the rim despite questions with his jump shot. He is also developing a reliable pull-up jump shot despite worries about his catch-and-shoot ability. Swain is a very solid connective piece due to his strong rebounding and playmaking abilities as well. His athleticism and effort also stand out significantly on defense.
Swain could end up being available for the Grizzlies
The Grizzlies could use another high-level impact wing that can impact both ends of the court. Despite Swain's draft projection varying in multiple mock drafts, he could still end up being available at the Grizzlies' second first-round pick. Christopher Kline of FanSided has Dailyn Swain being selected 18th overall by the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Given Swain's strong NCAA Tournament so far and the Grizzlies having a second first-round pick to work with, Swain seems like a very logical option to consider. The Grizzlies already have a promising group of young wings featuring players such as Cedric Coward and GG Jackson II, but Swain could significantly boost the talent level right away.