Updated
Updated · ESPN · Jun 24
Grizzlies Draft Cameron Boozer at No. 3, Add 5 Future Second-Round Picks
Updated
Updated · ESPN · Jun 24

Grizzlies Draft Cameron Boozer at No. 3, Add 5 Future Second-Round Picks

3 articles · Updated · ESPN · Jun 24

Summary

  • Memphis used the No. 3 pick on Duke forward Cameron Boozer, betting the 18-year-old can speed up a rebuild that began with last year's coaching change and now extends to an uncertain Ja Morant future.
  • Boozer arrives as one of the draft's most NBA-ready prospects after averaging 22.5 points, 10.2 rebounds and 4.1 assists at Duke while shooting 39.1% from 3.
  • Memphis also reshaped the rest of its first round, moving from No. 16 to No. 17 and then No. 21 to land Karim Lopez while collecting five future second-round picks.
  • That haul adds to a young core featuring Cedric Coward, Jaylen Wells and Zach Edey, whose recovery from March ankle surgery could shape how quickly Boozer helps lift the Grizzlies.

Insights

Can a rookie and an injury-prone center actually save the post-Ja Morant Grizzlies?
Did Memphis's draft trades secure its future or just swap quality for quantity?