The Memphis Grizzlies hold the third overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft along with selections at 16 and 32. Front office discussions have turned to the cost of moving up from 16 to secure an additional guard prospect.

Memphis already owns three first-round selections this year after a 25-57 finish that landed them the No. 3 spot in the lottery. Their assets include an unprotected 2027 first, a 2029 first from Orlando, and additional future firsts from Phoenix and others. Those picks would likely form the core of any package to climb into the top 10 or high lottery.

A guard addition at that range would address backcourt depth concerns created by the existing glut on the roster and the uncertain status of Ja Morant. Adding a player who can handle creation and spacing would allow the team to pair a new perimeter option with young wings like Jaylen Wells and Cedric Coward without forcing awkward rotations.

This approach fits the pattern of recent Grizzlies drafts where they have repeatedly used second-round capital and future picks to move up for immediate contributors. The new lottery rules approved this spring, which the Grizzlies opposed, have tightened the market for high selections and made teams more reluctant to part with premium assets.

Draft night on June 25 offers the clearest window. Any move could also hinge on whether Memphis explores a Morant trade beforehand to reshape its timeline. A deal that lands a guard in the 8-to-12 range would likely require surrendering at least two future firsts plus the 16th pick itself.

The real test comes in how those extra picks would be used to build around whatever star emerges at No. 3. Another high-upside guard only matters if the front office can stabilize the rest of the rotation.