Cameron Boozer, the Memphis Grizzlies' No. 3 overall pick, made his anticipated preseason debut on Monday, October 5, in a 132-123 win over the Atlanta Hawks. The 19-year-old forward is positioned as the new face of the franchise in the post-Ja Morant era, and his first action offered a glimpse into his evolving NBA role. The Grizzlies followed that with a 122-118 preseason loss to the Orlando Magic on October 7, and they face the Chicago Bulls on the road October 9.
Boozer is projected as Memphis's starting power forward, but his offensive approach is shifting. He did most of his scoring in the post at Duke. In the NBA, he plans to operate more from the perimeter. "I'm going to be more perimeter-oriented," Boozer said. This is a significant development for a player some scouts labeled a 'tweener' at 6-foot-9 and 250 pounds. Embracing this role early suggests the Grizzlies are confident in his ability to expand his game and raise his ceiling.
His feel for the game as a playmaker was another major point of interest. At Duke, the offense often ran through him as both a scorer and primary facilitator. Boozer expects to bring that same decision-making to Memphis. "You're just going to see my feel for the game, my decision-making," he explained. "Attacking defenders, getting downhill, making reads. I think the main thing is you're going to see me making plays and being a decision-maker." The Grizzlies appear ready to unlock that on-ball role immediately.
Offensive potential is clear, but defense presents questions. Boozer's build and athleticism by NBA standards mean he must rely heavily on basketball IQ. He acknowledged this, stating, "Obviously, I'm not the most physically gifted in terms of NBA standards." In Memphis's scheme, he'll likely function as a helper. Zach Edey is slated as the primary rim protector, with perimeter defenders like Cedric Coward and Jaylen Wells applying pressure. Edey's preseason availability is uncertain, however, which could test the team's defensive structure early.
The preseason continues with a quick turnaround. Memphis travels to face the Chicago Bulls on October 9. These games are vital for integrating Boozer and establishing rotations before the regular season tips off. Fans can track the team's preparation and upcoming schedule on our schedule page. Every minute is an opportunity for the rookie to build chemistry with teammates like Jaren Jackson Jr. and solidify his responsibilities on both ends of the floor. The Grizzlies' offensive plan for their new star is ambitious, and his adaptation will be a central storyline all season.
