With the NBA season two weeks away, the Memphis Grizzlies have not signed 2026 draft pick Richie Saunders. The former BYU star, selected 32nd remains one of five unsigned players from his draft class. This comes as the Grizzlies look to rebound from a tough end to the 2025-26 campaign, which concluded with a 132-101 loss to the Houston Rockets on April 13.
The primary reason is a roster logjam. Memphis currently has 18 players on standard contracts, three over the NBA's 15-man limit. They must cut down before the season starts. General manager Zach Kleiman has expressed excitement about Saunders but indicated a cautious approach. "Richie is a player we think is a strong identity fit with this group on and off the court," Kleiman said at September's media day. "We'll be smart with his case."
Saunders' recovery from a torn ACL last February is another major factor. The injury ended his college career early and will impact his first pro season. Given his rehab timeline, a two-way contract is the most likely path. This would let him split time between the NBA and the G-League, easing him back into competitive play.
The Grizzlies were high on Saunders, refusing trade offers to secure the 32nd pick. At 6-foot-5, he's known as a hustling sharpshooter who embodies the team's gritty identity. His skill set addresses a need for perimeter shooting and defensive effort. Kleiman praised Saunders for "attacking his ACL recovery and continues to progress well."
However, the team's immediate focus is trimming its roster. Their recent form highlights the need for roster clarity. They lost their final four games of last season, including defeats to the Cleveland Cavaliers (126-142 on April 7) and the Phoenix Suns (105-131 on March 31). Integrating a rookie who isn't fully healthy adds a layer of complexity.
There is no firm date. The Grizzlies will first resolve their roster surplus by waiving or trading three players. Once that's done, they can formally bring Saunders into the fold on a two-way deal. His basketball activities will be closely monitored. Playing in the G-League with the Memphis Hustle will likely be his initial destination to regain rhythm.
This strategic patience allows the Grizzlies to retain Saunders' rights without using a precious standard roster spot. It gives the young guard time to heal fully. For fans tracking the team's rebuild, you can monitor roster updates on our roster page. The front office's decision reflects a long-term view, prioritizing Saunders' health and development over immediate availability.
The Grizzlies' offseason moves will be watched closely as they aim to improve from last season's finish. Their 1-4 record in the final five games, with the lone win a 125-124 thriller over the Chicago Bulls on March 29, showed both vulnerability and fight. Adding a fully healthy Saunders later in the year could provide a boost.
