When the Memphis Grizzlies used the No. 3 overall pick on Cameron Boozer in the 2026 NBA Draft, he said Ja Morant came to his mind when he thinks of the franchise.
But, just days later, the Grizzlies sent Morant to the Portland Trail Blazers, opening a completely new chapter before Boozer even stepped onto the floor for his first Summer League appearance.
As a result, the young forward found himself entering a very different situation than he first imagined.
Cameron Boozer Opens Up On Grizzlies’ Future After Ja Morant Trade
“Obviously, I didn’t know it was going to happen,” Boozer said on July 2. “Ja is a great player. It’s not our decision to make. It’s the front office’s (decision). I think we got a great young core. I think that’s what they’re looking to build off of, so I think (the future) is really exciting.”
However, Morant’s recent availability made such a move easier to understand than it once seemed.
Although the 26-year-old has an average of 22.4 points per game, he has appeared in only 79 games over the last three seasons due to injuries and suspensions.
That stretch also included a 25-game suspension after he appeared on a livestream holding a gun while sitting in the passenger seat of a vehicle.
As a result, Memphis did not receive the type of package many expected for a former All-NBA guard. The Grizzlies acquired Jerami Grant and Kris Murray, a return that immediately drew criticism.
However, Memphis now has a chance to reset the franchise with clearer direction, and Boozer stands at the center of that vision.
Grant may not be the most exciting return, but he still fills several important needs. Although his contract draws plenty of criticism, Grant remains a capable wing who defends, knocks down outside shots, and can create offense when needed. That skill set gives Memphis flexibility, whether it decides to keep him or move him later.
If he stays, Grant joins Cedric Coward, Jaylen Wells, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Zach Edey, and Isaiah Stewart in providing experienced defensive support for Boozer. Murray could also quietly become a useful piece if his offensive game takes a step forward.
He already brings defensive energy and can finish well when attacking open space. If his three-point shot climbs closer to league average, the Grizzlies may end up finding a valuable rotation player coming off the bench.
As a result, Memphis still has reasons to feel optimistic despite the modest trade package. Now, the Grizzlies still have room to reshape the roster through additional moves. The coming days should reveal whether Memphis adds more pieces to strengthen its new foundation.
