Some rookies need time to find their footing. Cam Boozer looks ready to hit the ground running.
The Memphis Grizzlies’ rookie has carried his impressive Summer League form into the preseason, showing a level of composure that has already caught the attention of his teammates. With Memphis entering a new chapter, Boozer could be poised for an immediate impact – and perhaps an early run at Rookie of the Year.
Boozer averaged 18.0 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 4.0 assists across five summer league games, earning All-Summer League First Team honors. He also shot 51% from the field and 45% from three-point range, showcasing an offensive game that looks well-suited for the NBA.
His preseason performances have reinforced that impression. Boozer recorded 11 points, five rebounds, and four assists against the Atlanta Hawks on October 5 before dropping 16 points against the Orlando Magic two days later. He added another 10 points in Memphis’ October 9 victory over the Chicago Bulls.
The numbers are encouraging, but his decision-making might be even more impressive.
At 6-foot-10, Boozer can score from the perimeter, work inside, and create opportunities for teammates. His versatility gives Memphis another playmaker who can operate beyond the traditional forward role.
“The poise he has at that age is just huge,” teammate Ty Jerome said, highlighting Boozer’s ability to dribble, pass, and shoot like another point guard on the floor.
Scotty Pippen Jr. has also praised the rookie’s ability to avoid mistakes, while center Zach Edey has marveled at some of the passes Boozer makes in practice. Those qualities could help him contribute in several ways, even on nights when his shot isn’t falling.
Memphis also has a clear reason to give him every opportunity to succeed.
Following the departures of Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr., the Grizzlies are entering a rebuilding phase without the established core that defined their previous era. Boozer now has an opportunity to become a central piece of the franchise’s future rather than spend his rookie season waiting for his turn.
His potential partnership with Edey is particularly intriguing. Boozer’s passing and perimeter shooting could complement Edey’s interior presence, while young players such as Cedric Coward and Jaylen Wells provide additional pieces for Memphis to develop.
Of course, becoming the face of a rebuilding franchise is a different challenge from looking comfortable in preseason games. Boozer must prove he can defend consistently, handle a heavier workload, and maintain his efficiency against opponents who are actively preparing for him.
Still, his early Rookie of the Year prospects look promising.
AJ Dybantsa, Darryn Peterson, and Caleb Wilson all have the talent to challenge him. Wilson, in particular, could be a direct competitor after scoring 35 points against Boozer’s Grizzlies in summer league, and 21 in their recent preseason matchup. But Boozer’s polish and opportunity could give him an early advantage.
The award race remains wide open, obviously, and preseason performances alone won’t determine the winner. Yet, Boozer has already shown that he can contribute without needing to dominate the ball.
For a Memphis team searching for its next cornerstone, that’s an encouraging place to start.
