The Memphis Grizzlies are 1-1 in the 2026 preseason, revealing a team in transition. They fell 122-118 to the Orlando Magic on October 7 after a 132-123 win over the Atlanta Hawks on October 5. This early action sets the stage for a year of major change following a 25-57 finish last season and the trades of Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr.
Memphis has hit the reset button hard. They traded franchise star Ja Morant to the Portland Trail Blazers and sent Jaren Jackson Jr. to the Utah Jazz. The return for Morant centered on Jerami Grant, with Kris Murray and cash considerations also included. Another significant loss was floor-spacing big man Santi Aldama, who averaged 14 points and 6.7 rebounds last year. His defensive limitations, however, often reduced his playing time.
The centerpiece of the rebuild is rookie Cameron Boozer, drafted third overall. At Duke, Boozer put up 22.5 points and 10.2 rebounds per game while shooting 39.1% from three-point range. He represents a new direction, both in his versatile power forward game and his professional demeanor off the court.
Boozer isn't just a high draft pick. He's viewed as a franchise-changing talent who brings immediate stability. His offensive skill set is advanced for a rookie, capable of scoring in the paint and stretching the floor. More importantly, his work ethic and NBA-ready mindset offer a clean break from recent off-court distractions. Grizzlies fans are hoping for a star they can rely on, and early signs point to Boozer fitting that role perfectly.
His development, alongside second-year guard Cedric Coward, will define this season. The team also needs center Zach Edey to stay healthy and ideally play over 60 games.
Realistic expectations are necessary for a young roster. The Grizzlies' best-case outcome is securing a spot in the Play-In Tournament. That would mark significant progress. The preseason split shows potential but also the inconsistency of a new group. They face the Chicago Bulls away on October 9 in their next preseason test, a final chance to build chemistry before the real games begin.
Patience is required. This season is about growth, not contention. The focus is on establishing a new core and culture, with Boozer leading the way. Fans can track the team's progress and upcoming schedule on our schedule page.
