The Memphis Grizzlies enter training camp with major questions about their roster, Cameron Boozer and Karim Lopez's roles, and Zach Edey's health.
The Memphis Grizzlies will soon begin training camp. There are some burning questions for them to answer as it gets underway.
This is the beginning of a new era. The Ja Morant era is over, and the Cameron Boozer era is underway. With so many unknown variables, there will be speculation.
These three questions stand out as more pressing than any others.
1. Will This Roster Change?
The Grizzlies are at something of a crossroads. They could speed up their rebuilding measures quickly and aim for success (more on that later), or they could continue prioritizing the future.
If the latter is the plan, this shouldn't be the roster past the trade deadline.
At a minimum, Ty Jerome should be on a new roster. The 29-year-old combo guard is too valuable to hang onto if you're not making a playoff push. If Memphis could find a taker for Jerami Grant, or even Cam Spencer, that could be beneficial as well.
If they're not concerned with winning games, that is.
2. How Much Will the Rookies Play?
This is a related question.
If the Grizzlies want to win games, they could limit Cameron Boozer and Karim Lopez's playing time. They'll get on the floor, but in high-leverage situations, Karim Lopez, at least, will be on the bench. If they're more concerned with development, they'll maximize their playing time and live with their mistakes.
Realistically, these questions could have been lumped into a section called "what's the plan here?" The Grizzlies may take the beginning of the year to see where they are and make decisions accordingly. Unless they're far ahead of schedule, it feels smarter to just put the rookies on the floor.
3. Is Zach Edey Good to Go?
By all indications, Edey is ready.
That's great — but some fans will need to see it to believe it. Edey missed the bulk of the 2025-26 season due to an ankle injury. It's fair to be concerned that the 300-pounder could have chronic problems in that area.
Hopefully, that isn't the case. Edey's massive frame — paired with Boozer's own size and overall skill set — could be the source of Memphis' identity. If he can't stay on the floor, that won't be realistic. Grizzlies fans will be hoping that he looks every bit as dominant as he did to begin 2025-26 when this year starts, and they'll hope he can stay that way.
It would go a long way toward answering their questions.
