The Memphis Grizzlies enter training camp with significant roster uncertainty, needing to cut four players from their 19 standard contracts before the season starts. The preseason opener is set for October 5 against the Atlanta Hawks, with the regular season tipping off October 21 versus the Utah Jazz.
This includes expected starters like Jaylen Wells, Scotty Pippen Jr., Ty Jerome, Jerami Grant, Cedric Coward, Zach Edey, and rookie Cam Boozer. Offseason additions Quinten Post, Isaiah Stewart, and Karim Lopez are also seen as solidified on the roster.
Players like GG Jackson, Taylor Hendricks, and Olivier-Maxence Prosper have interesting contract situations but showed enough promise last season to likely stay. Jackson and Prosper made clear improvements, while Hendricks joined the team in February. Javon Small and Jahmai Mashack are on two-way deals and will need to keep developing to earn standard contracts.
Three players face an unclear path to the final 15-man squad. Point guard Walter Clayton Jr. has a chance but faces tough competition at his position and struggled after being acquired last February. Defensive specialist Micah Peavy must prove he can contribute offensively to force a difficult decision.
The situation for second-round draft pick Richie Saunders is complex. The Grizzlies could sign him to the main roster, offer a two-way contract, or stash him with the G League's Memphis Hustle. If the roster stays crowded, the G League option might be the one they choose.
The pressure to get the roster right is heightened by how last season ended.
This defensive vulnerability is something the new roster mix must address. The front office will also sign players to Exhibit 10 contracts to build depth for the Memphis Hustle, requiring additional moves before camp. Fans can track the evolving roster on our roster page as decisions are made.
Roster moves are expected well before the preseason concludes on October 18. Players like D’Angelo Russell, Jordan Hawkins, and Kris Murray are considered long shots to make the team, with Hawkins being a former first-round pick who hasn't met expectations. The coaching staff will use preseason games, starting with the Hawks, to evaluate the final spots.
The goal is to build a group that can compete in a tough Western Conference and move past last season's finish. With training camp just over a week away, the clock is ticking for the front office to finalize their vision for the 2026-27 Memphis Grizzlies.
