The Memphis Grizzlies enter the 2026-27 season with a much more tempered expectations.
Last year was a rollercoaster ride. Through their first 15 games, the Grizzlies started 4-11. That wasn’t the worst part. Their star, Ja Morant, and the new head coach Tuomas Iisalo clashed, mostly about the offense. It was very obvious that Morant did not mesh with the new system. So obvious that he was suspended one game for “conduct detrimental to the team.” This came after a heated exchange with Isalo after a loss to the Los Angeles Lakers.
Despite this, the expectations going into the year were to at least make the playoffs. Most fans can agree with that. However, they finished the year 25-57, 13th in the West.
Now, the Grizzlies have hit the reset button once again.
They’ve traded Morant to the Portland Trail Blazers. They also traded Jaren Jackson Jr. to the Utah Jazz. Incoming rookie Cameron Boozer has rejuvenated the franchise. He’s not the personality sparkplug that Grizz fans have are used to having around. However, that may be exactly what this franchise needs.
Grizzlies’ Biggest Off-Season Loss: Ja Morant
Despite his recent on court struggles, losing Ja Morant significantly hurts the Grizzlies. Especially when it comes to star power. Morant has a large following and fan base. They’re very vocal about this upcoming season being his best since 2021-22 when he made the All-NBA Second Team.
Honestly, let’s hope he does have an incredible season. Even though he is no longer a Grizz, his time here was essential to the success of the franchise. The return for Ja Morant leaves more to be desired. Jerami Grant is the highlight of the haul; $1 million in cash and Kris Murray were also part of the trade.
A case could be made for Santi Aldama as the biggest subtraction as well. He averaged 14 points and 6.7 rebounds in 43 games. He’s the perfect floor spacing big that most teams dream of having on the roster. However, his defense is questionable. This is what often led to him being played off the floor during the season.
Biggest Off-Season Addition: Cameron Boozer
The Memphis Grizzlies drafted Cameron Boozer third overall in this year’s NBA draft. He’s seen as a franchise-changing prospect, and rightfully so. His lone year at Duke produced eye popping numbers. Boozer averaged 22.5 PPG and 10.2 RPG, while adding 4.1 APG. All while shooting 55.6% from the field and a staggering 39.1% from three. Sure, he may be a traditional power forward, however, he has the ability to step out and knock down the three ball when needed.
Outside of his play on the court, his off the court work ethic and attitude is a welcomed change. Memphis Grizzlies fans have been holding their breath for most offseason lately. Hoping and praying they won’t wake up to news of their star playing possibly landing in the news for the wrong reasons. Fans won’t have to worry about that with Cameron Boozer. He comes from an NBA family. He knows the NBA life both on and off the court. It’s a nice change of pace and direction for the franchise.
Grizzlies’ Best Case Scenario Outcome:
The Grizzlies’ best-case scenario is to make the Play In this year. They are a very young team, and fans will have to practice patience. The development of Cedric Coward is essential. Ideally, the organization will hope to see him take a second-year jump.
More importantly, though, is the health of Zach Edey. Ideally, the organization would like to see him play 60+ games this year. Let’s be honest, the chances of that are rather slim at the moment. That doesn’t mean he can’t do it. Speaking of health, Ty Jerome is another player to watch. Both players being on the court with Cameron Boozer is important. Boozer, Coward, and Edey are seen as the core of this team. The more time Memphis can get with them on the court together, the better.
A record of 38-44 isn’t out of the realm of possibility. This should land them just inside the Play-In picture. The good news is a lot of publications see this team as a Play-In candidate as well.
Grizzlies Worst Case Scenario Outcome:
The worst case for this franchise includes poor health. The Memphis Grizzlies desperately need Edey to stay on the court. If his foot injury flares up again and he’s forced to miss extended time, they’ll be forced to ask some difficult questions. Last season, Edey only played 11 games. A repeat of this would be a disaster for the franchise.
The Memphis Grizzlies also need Jerome to show he can be the primary distributor. Last season, he mostly showed he could be the starting PG of this team. Now with mostly fresh new faces, and a veteran on the team, he will be asked to take an even larger role for the upcoming season.
Another worst-case scenario would be the pairing of Edey and Boozer not working out. The franchise is hoping for a positive outcome here. However, there’s a chance that this pairing only clogs the paint. Due to losing Santi, they’ll be relying on Cam Spencer heavily to be a reliable knock down shooter. Outside of him, the current roster mostly struggles from the 3-point line.
Grizzlies’ Biggest Question Heading Into 2026-27 Season:
The Grizzlies’ biggest question mark for the start of the season is the play and health of Zach Edey. As stated earlier, it’s imperative that he is available, and is able to stay on the court.
Without Zach Edey, Cameron Boozer may be forced to play out of his natural position from the four to the five. This could stunt his development on the court. That’s the last thing the Memphis Grizzlies want to happen in regard to their potential future of the franchise. If Edey cannot stay on the court, they may be forced to make some very difficult choices going into the next offseason.
Leave a comment