Memphis Grizzlies 2026 NBA Draft Preview

Gabe Kuhn discussed the #3 pick and took calls about the 2026 NBA on Monday's (6/22) Gabe Kuhn Show on 92.9 FM ESPN. AUDIO:

The Grizzlies enter the 2026 NBA Draft with one of the most important draft nights in franchise history. Memphis owns the No. 3 overall pick, along with No. 16 and No. 32, giving the front office multiple opportunities to add cornerstone talent to a roster that is in transition.

Key Storylines

• 🏀 Memphis picks No. 3 overall in a draft many scouts consider one of the deepest classes in years.
• 🏀 Consensus projections have AJ Dybantsa and Darryn Peterson going in the first two selections, leaving Memphis in position to choose from the next tier of elite prospects.
• 🏀 The most commonly projected Grizzlies selection is Cameron Boozer.
• 🏀 Memphis also has flexibility to trade picks, move up, or add veteran help if the right opportunity arises.
• 🏀 The future of Ja Morant remains one of the biggest questions surrounding the organization entering draft night.

Top Targets at No. 3

Cameron Boozer (Duke)

• Most NBA-ready player available.
• Elite rebounder, passer, and high-IQ forward.
• Strong fit next to Zach Edey and Memphis' young core.
• Frequently mocked to Memphis across major draft projections.

Caleb Wilson (North Carolina)

• High-upside two-way forward.
• Athletic, versatile defender with star potential.
• Could become the best long-term upside play if available.

Darryn Peterson (Kansas)

• If he unexpectedly slips, Memphis likely turns in the card immediately.
• Dynamic scorer with superstar upside.

What to Watch at No. 16

Possible targets linked to Memphis include:

• Christian Anderson
• Ebuka Okorie
• Bennett Stirtz
• Koa Peat

Bottom Line

• Best-case scenario: One of Dybantsa or Peterson unexpectedly falls to No. 3.
• Most likely scenario: Memphis selects Cameron Boozer.
• Biggest need: Add elite young talent regardless of position and continue building around a young core for the next era of Grizzlies basketball.

Draft Night Schedule (Central Time)

• First Round: Tuesday, June 23 — 7:00 PM CT on 92.9 FM ESPN
• Second Round: Wednesday, June 24 — 7:00 PM CT on 92.9 FM ESPN

For Memphis fans, the expectation is simple: land a future star at No. 3 and use picks No. 16 and No. 32 to accelerate the franchise's next chapter.

Full coverage live on 92.9 FM ESPN