Memphis Grizzlies 2026-2027 guide
The new-look Grizzlies are betting everything on youth: from Boozer to Coward and Edey, here are the most interesting names for Dunkest 2026/27
In Memphis, year zero has officially begun. Ja Morant’s departure in the summer definitively closed the chapter on those young, exciting Grizzlies who once looked destined to become a permanent fixture near the top of the Western Conference before injuries and off-court issues slowed their rise.
The new roster is a melting pot of young players where it is still difficult to identify clear hierarchies or cornerstones. A complicated situation for Memphis, but one that could turn into very fertile ground for our Dunkest teams, especially when looking for players ready to take advantage of the opportunities now available.
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Key players
Among the many young players and question marks surrounding this roster, Cedric Coward (G, 8.0 cr.) is one of the few certainties. The sophomore is one of Memphis’ most natural scorers, and his career has been on a steady upward trajectory since his college days. With much greater offensive responsibility, it is reasonable to expect a significant increase in his production as well.
The true face of the new project, however, will be Cameron Boozer (F, 12.5 cr.). Selected No. 3 in the latest Draft, the former Duke standout has the size, talent and, above all, the opportunity needed to make an immediate impact. Memphis has decided to rebuild around youth, and Boozer will inevitably be at the center of the project: the future, and probably the present too, will run through him.
Potential surprises
One of the players under the closest watch will be Zach Edey (C, 9.0 cr.). Last season he played only 11 games because of a serious injury, but still averaged a double-double. The first few weeks could involve cautious minute management, but if his body can finally give him some continuity, this could become his breakout season.
Jaylen Wells (F, 7.0 cr.) has already built a reputation as a solid 3-and-D player over his first two years in Memphis, showing he can be a useful piece moving forward as well. Now, with the pecking order completely up for grabs, he will have the chance to show more and convince the franchise that he can be much more than just a specialist.
Players to avoid
With this season focused primarily on developing the young players, Jerami Grant (F, 8.5 cr.) could be one of the hardest players to evaluate. His role may shrink as the months go by, and it would not be surprising to see his name come up in trade discussions as well. The signals coming out of Training Camp, moreover, do not suggest a player who is particularly enthusiastic about the new situation.
Among the younger players, Walter Clayton Jr. (G, 5.0 cr.) starts much further back. His rookie season was not convincing: he struggled to find consistency with his shot, and his physical impact against NBA athletes showed several limitations. With so many prospects to evaluate, he risks spending much of the year on the fringes of the rotation.
Projected starting five
PG: Ty Jerome (Guard, 7.5 cr.)
SG: Cedric Coward (Guard, 8.0 cr.)
SF: Jaylen Wells (Forward, 7.0 cr.)
PF: Cameron Boozer (Forward, 12.5 cr.)
C: Zach Eday (Center, 9.0 cr.)
Power Ranking
This season, for Memphis, the standings come second. Considering the level of the Western Conference and a roster that is still very much under construction, the Grizzlies inevitably start near the bottom and could battle Sacramento for the bottom of the Conference.
The real goal will be to understand which young players can become the cornerstones of the new cycle, giving them minutes, possessions and, above all, the freedom to make mistakes. For Memphis, this will be a rebuilding year, but that very situation could create several interesting opportunities from a Dunkest perspective.
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