The Memphis Grizzlies are projected to select Duke’s Cameron Boozer with the third overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft. While speculation surrounds Ja Morant’s future in Memphis, analysts suggest a potential Giannis Antetokounmpo trade could shift the superstar market, potentially delaying any Morant transaction until the draft’s second night.
Will the Memphis Grizzlies select Cameron Boozer at #3?
Current projections suggest Cameron Boozer will be the third overall selection. This follows reports of Darryn Peterson meeting with the Utah Jazz, which has led analysts to predict the Jazz will take Peterson at #2.
If the Jazz move Peterson to the second spot, it clears the path for Memphis to secure Boozer. The Grizzlies’ front office has historically prioritized players who fit a specific analytical profile. Boozer is expected to serve as a primary offensive hub, a role necessitated by the team’s decision to trade franchise cornerstone Jaren Jackson Jr. to the Utah Jazz months ago.
The Memphis Grizzlies’ recent roster restructuring included trading Jaren Jackson Jr. to the Utah Jazz, a move that directly influences their current draft strategy and need for offensive big men.
How might Zach Kleiman use Memphis’s draft assets to trade up?
Memphis holds both the #3 and #16 overall picks, providing GM Zach Kleiman with significant leverage. Kleiman has a documented history of aggressive maneuvering to acquire star-level talent through the draft.
While a move to the #5 spot with the Clippers remains a long shot, several scenarios could trigger a trade-up attempt for Memphis. If a run on point guards begins, Memphis may target Arkansas guard Darius Acuff Jr. by negotiating with Brooklyn at the #6 spot. Other potential targets include Yaxel Lendeborg or the versatile Brayden Burries.
The success of these moves depends on the availability of picks near the top 10. Uncertainty surrounding the owner of the #10 pick could complicate negotiations for teams looking to close out the first round.
Potential Trade Targets for Memphis
- Darius Acuff Jr. (Arkansas): A high-priority target if Memphis seeks to jump ahead of Sacramento.
- Yaxel Lendeborg: A potential faller in the draft order that Memphis could capitalize on.
- Brayden Burries: A “jack of all trades” prospect that fits various roster needs.
Why is a Ja Morant trade unlikely to happen immediately?
Although rumors regarding Ja Morant’s departure from Memphis are frequent, a trade is unlikely to occur during the first night of the draft. This delay is tied to a potential massive domino effect involving Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Reports indicate the Milwaukee Bucks may trade Antetokounmpo to either the Miami Heat or the Boston Celtics. This transaction creates two distinct paths for the Memphis Grizzlies:
- The Miami Scenario: If the Celtics land Antetokounmpo, the Miami Heat may become more aggressive in pursuing Morant. However, the timeline for such a deal remains uncertain.
- The Market Shift: If the Heat secure a superstar via the Antetokounmpo deal, they may exit the market for Morant entirely, altering Memphis’s leverage.
Because teams often finalize their roster needs as the first night of the draft concludes, analysts expect the Morant market to stabilize by the second night. This timing allows teams to better understand their vacancies before committing to a high-stakes superstar trade.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the Memphis Grizzlies expected to draft?
The Grizzlies are projected to select Duke’s Cameron Boozer with the #3 overall pick.
Will Ja Morant be traded during the 2026 NBA Draft?
While a trade is possible, it is more likely to occur on the second night of the draft once the impacts of other major trades, such as a potential Giannis Antetokounmpo deal, are understood.
What other picks does Memphis hold?
In addition to the #3 pick, Memphis holds the #16 overall selection in the first round.
What do you think the Grizzlies should do with the #3 pick?
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