The Memphis Grizzlies wrapped up their preseason schedule with a convincing 116-98 win over the Charlotte Hornets on October 16, finishing the exhibition slate with a 3-1 record. While rookie Cam Boozer has drawn headlines, three other Grizzlies have used these games to build a powerful argument for more responsibility this season.
GG Jackson II has been the team's most efficient scorer. He averaged 14.3 points and four rebounds on 51.7% shooting in just over 15 minutes per game. The 6-foot-9 forward looks far more comfortable creating his own shot now. He's attacking the rim with purpose instead of settling for catch-and-shoot chances. Jackson is playing on a team-friendly contract, but his play is forcing the coaching staff to consider him for major minutes. He finished his rookie year with a 44-point, 12-rebound explosion, and he's showing that scoring punch again.
Jaylen Wells has provided immediate three-point shooting. The rookie connected on 50% of his attempts from deep during the preseason. He dropped 15 points in the October 9 win over the Chicago Bulls. Wells brings a smooth, confident stroke that the Grizzlies' second unit desperately needs. His ability to space the floor opens driving lanes for his teammates. It’s a simple but valuable skill that should earn him a rotation spot from day one.
Olivier-Maxence Prosper's case is built on relentless energy and defense. He averaged 7.5 points and 5.5 rebounds while fighting for every loose ball. Prosper doesn't need plays called for him to impact the game. He sets hard screens, crashes the glass, and guards multiple positions. In a preseason that included wins over Atlanta and Chicago and a close loss to Orlando, his hustle was a constant. That kind of effort is contagious and often wins over coaches.
These aren't just empty stats from meaningless games. For Jackson, it's about proving he's more than a temporary solution. The Grizzlies already picked up his $2.4 million option for 2026-27, a steal for a 21-year-old with his upside. He needs to show he can be a consistent two-way player behind Jerami Grant. Wells has to demonstrate his college shooting translates to the NBA pace and physicality. Early signs are very positive. For Prosper, it's about carving out a niche as a defensive specialist and energy guy off the bench. The preseason was his audition, and he passed.
Their emergence gives head coach Taylor Jenkins real options. He can go with scoring punch from Jackson, spacing from Wells, or defensive grit from Prosper depending on the matchup. This depth is vital for surviving the long NBA regular season.
The preseason work is done. Attention now turns to the real games. The Grizzlies will open their regular season at home against the Utah Jazz on October 21. That matchup will provide the first true test of how these preseason standouts fit into a competitive rotation. The 3-1 exhibition record, built on wins over Charlotte, Chicago, and Atlanta, builds some early momentum. But the intensity level jumps now. Jenkins has some tough decisions to make with his rotation, and the strong play of Jackson, Wells, and Prosper has made those choices much harder in the best way possible.
