The Memphis Grizzlies have been placed 24th in a prominent NBA preseason power ranking, slotting them in the league's bottom tier as they prepare for a new era. This low projection follows a 25-57 campaign that ended with a 132-101 loss to the Houston Rockets on April III, 2026, part of a five-game losing streak to close the season.
Analysts point to the team's massive roster turnover and the loss of a franchise cornerstone. The Grizzlies traded star guard Ja Morant to the Portland Trail Blazers this offseason. They brought in ten new players, including veterans like Jerami Grant, D'Angelo Russell, and Isaiah Stewart. But the departure of key contributors like Morant, Santi Aldama, and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope creates significant uncertainty. The ranking reflects the challenge of integrating so many new pieces, especially with a rookie expected to lead the charge.
That rookie is forward Cameron Boozer, selected third overall in the 2026 NBA Draft. The 6-foot-10 prospect is already drawing major attention after a stellar Summer League. Boozer averaged 18.5 points, 8.0 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 1.8 steals per game, earning a spot on the Summer League First Team. His playmaking and physicality have led to comparisons with the versatile, multi-skilled lineups that won the New York Knicks the 2025-26 championship. "Versatility is the name of the game," Boozer said. "Teams want five guys who can make plays. I can screen. I can handle it. You can put me in a lot of different scenarios."
Head coach Iisalo is widely expected to start a young group next season. The projected starting five features Ty Jerome and Jaylen Wells in the backcourt, with Cedric Coward, Cameron Boozer, and Zach Edey in the frontcourt. On paper, that's a decent and intriguing lineup with size and potential. Coward, an All-Rookie First Team selection last year, provides a scoring punch. Edey offers a massive interior presence. But this group lacks proven NBA experience together, which contributes to the conservative preseason outlook.
The immediate future likely involves growing pains. The Grizzlies may be fun to watch, but they are projected to be a lottery team again. In the long run, another high draft pick could help the front office acquire more elite talent to build around Boozer. The focus this season will be on development and establishing a new identity. Fans can track the team's progress and upcoming schedule on our schedule page.
