The Memphis Grizzlies have been placed 22nd in the latest NBA power rankings from Heavy Sports for the 2026-27 season. This ranking suggests the team could finish near the play-in tournament in the Western Conference, a notable step after a 25-57 record last year. The Grizzlies are coming off a tough end to the previous campaign, having lost their final five games, including a 132-101 defeat to the Houston Rockets on April 13, 2026.
What does the No. 22 ranking mean for Memphis?
Ranking 22nd overall puts the Memphis Grizzlies ahead of eight other NBA teams and four within their own conference. That projects to an 11th-place finish in the West. Landing just outside the official playoff picture would be a significant improvement. It places them in the play-in conversation, which is an encouraging target for a rebuilding squad. Last season, they finished 13th in the conference, so moving up two spots would show tangible progress. You can track their climb in the [standings](/standings) as the new season unfolds.
This projection comes despite broadly low external expectations. The team's recent form was difficult, closing the 2025-26 season with five consecutive losses. But the power ranking indicates some analysts see a path for Memphis to be more competitive than their record suggests. An NBA executive even said the Grizzlies are in a "really good position" for the future.
Why is there optimism around the Grizzlies now?
The organization's transformation this offseason is the main source of hope. Memphis drafted cornerstone rookie Cameron Boozer and traded away star guard Ja Morant, starting a new chapter. Boozer needed just one year at Duke to prove he was NBA-ready, averaging 22.5 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game. He continued to impress during Summer League play.
But Boozer isn't the only reason for optimism. The Grizzlies have added other solid young pieces like Zach Edey and Cedric Coward. They loaded up on size to bolster their frontcourt. While one NBA scout said the team is just a "point guard away," Memphis does have intriguing options in Ty Jerome and Scotty Pippen Jr. To run the offense. The full roster is taking shape, which you can view on our [squad](/squad) page.
What are the challenges facing this new-look team?
Even with the positive buzz, the Grizzlies still have a long way to go before they are considered true contenders. The point guard situation remains a question mark that opponents may exploit. The team's defense and overall consistency will need to improve dramatically to avoid another long losing streak like the one that ended last season.
Integrating a rookie as the focal point, even one as talented as Cameron Boozer, always comes with growing pains. The Western Conference is brutally deep, and climbing from 13th to 11th will require winning games they lost last year. Every possession and every quarter will matter more as they aim for play-in territory.
How should fans view the upcoming season?
The 2026-27 season should be viewed as the first step in the Boozer era. The power ranking of 22nd is a realistic, perhaps even slightly optimistic, starting point. Improvement is the goal, not a championship push. Watching the development of Boozer and the young core will be the primary storyline. Their individual and team [stats](/stats) will tell the real story of progress.
Games will be competitive more often, and a play-in spot is a plausible target. But patience is required. The trade of Ja Morant closed a memorable chapter, and this new one is just beginning. The Grizzlies' front office has positioned the team with future assets and flexibility. How quickly the young players adapt will determine if they can beat that No. 22 projection.
