The Memphis Grizzlies made a tremendous move in the 2026 NBA Draft when they selected Cameron Boozer with the third overall pick. Considering that Boozer was viewed as one of the top prospects in his draft class, it is safe to say that the Grizzlies have landed a phenomenal young player.
Most initial projections had Cameron Boozer joining either the Utah Jazz (No. 2) or the Memphis Grizzlies (No. 3). In this regard, seeing Boozer wind up with the Grizzlies comes as no surprise. However, when discussing his fit on Memphis’ roster on the “Cousins” podcast, both Tracy McGrady and Vince Carter had their doubts about Boozer.
When noting that Cameron Boozer would be paired with Zach Edey in the frontcourt, McGrady began:
“If you have a center like Zach Edey, who is slow-footed on the defensive side of the ball, you need your power forward to be able to cover some ground for him defensively. I think you could have two guys in your frontcourt that are slow-footed; they can’t really cover that much ground. So, when you’re playing a team like OKC or San Antonio, who can spread you out with shooters. They can’t cover that ground.”
As McGrady mentioned, Grizzlies big man Zach Edey is a terrific presence down low. Unfortunately, by virtue of being a floor-bound center, Edey is often vulnerable against quicker players. On that note, Carter made a keen observation when he added:
“You need more of an athletic big for that pick. So, Caleb Wilson fits that mold a little better than that one.”
McGrady resonated with this idea, too, as he built upon Carter’s suggestion and stated:
“That’s what I feel. I don’t think it’s a bad pick because of the player. I don’t think he fits what they already have there. I would love to see a more athletic, long, lanky type guy that can stretch the floor and cover Zach Edey on the defensive end.”
The mention of Caleb Wilson is particularly intriguing in this context. Although the Chicago Bulls drafted Wilson with the No. 4 pick, there is a strong argument to suggest his talents may have aligned with Memphis’ requirements.
Wilson has been touted as one of the most athletic players in this draft class. With Draymond Green also convinced of the young forward’s potential, the Grizzlies may have benefited more from selecting him first.
Still, it is worth noting that this is just an opinion.
There is virtually no denying how gifted Cameron Boozer is. While he may not be as explosive as some of his contemporaries, Boozer makes up for it with a versatile offensive skill set, strength, and noteworthy rebounding instincts, making him a solid fit for a rebuilding franchise like the Grizzlies.
In just his freshman season with Duke, Cameron Boozer racked up several accolades, including the Naismith Men’s College Player of the Year award, while also earning AP Men’s National Player of the Year honors.
With averages of 22.5 points, 10.2 rebounds, 4.1 assists, 0.6 blocks, and 1.4 steals per game on 55.6% shooting from the field and 39.1% from three-point range, he was truly spectacular.
While Cameron Boozer may not address Memphis’ defensive needs in the frontcourt, his arrival considerably bolsters their offensive firepower. Given that the Duke forward also has a chip on his shoulder after being snubbed from the top pick in the draft, Boozer could be immensely motivated going into the 2025-26 season.
