Pre-Draft Outlook
Memphis produced back-to-back 50-win seasons with a team largely built on the shoulders of homegrown talent, but the Grizzlies want to take the next step after a disappointing first-round exit from the 2023 postseason. Dillon Brooks is the only unrestricted free agent on the roster, and Xavier Tillman’s deal contains a team option that will likely be exercised. Memphis GM Zach Kleiman mentioned the club plans “to be aggressive gain” this offseason with talent acquisition, and the Grizzlies enter the 2023 draft with three picks (25, 45 and 56). Keep in mind Memphis carried five rookies on its extended roster in 2022-23, including four from the 2022 draft. The Grizzlies were busy making deals at the 2022 draft and might be looking to use picks in 2023 to add solid vets to complement the young core of Ja Morant, Desmond Bane and Jaren Jackson Jr.
The Way To Go
It’s likely Tyus Jones spends a considerable chunk of next season as the starting point guard given Morant is likely facing another suspension. So, Memphis might use its pick at 25 to add depth to the backcourt or may instead press on with its plans to find an upgrade at small forward (since Brooks isn’t expected to return next season). Injuries last season to Brandon Clarke and Steven Adams could also affect Memphis’ planning. But the overall depth of the roster gives the Grizzlies the flexibility to go a variety of routes. If Memphis uses its pick, keep an eye on Pepperdine forward Maxwell Lewis, Xavier’s Colby Jones and Jordan Hawkins from Connecticut (both of whom are guards).
— Michael C. Wright
Here’s a quick look at who the Memphis Grizzlies have under contract, who is a free agent this summer and who they added in the 2022 NBA Draft.
Under Contract
G: Desmond Bane
G: Jacob Gilyard
G: Tyus Jones
G: Luke Kennard
G: John Konchar
G: Ja Morant
G: Vince Williams Jr.
F: Jake LaRavia
F: Kenneth Lofton Jr.
F: Ziaire Williams
F: Brandon Clarke
F: David Roddy
F/C: Santi Aldama
F/C: Jaren Jackson Jr.
C: Steven Adams
Free Agents
G/F: Dillon Brooks (unrestricted)
F: Xavier Tillman (team option)
> 2023 Free Agent Tracker
Last Year’s Draft
2022: Jake LaRavia (19)*, Walker Kessler (22)**, David Roddy (23)*, TyTy Washington (29)**, Kennedy Chandler (38)*, Vince Williams Jr. (47)
* = acquired via trade
** = traded in draft-night deal
*** = traded in offseason deal