The Memphis Grizzlies find themselves in a season where NBA Draft odds are the main focus, rather than playoff aspirations. With a 23-43 record, their postseason hopes have dimmed, shifting attention to the 2026 NBA Draft Lottery. The remaining games, particularly against the Chicago Bulls, Utah Jazz, and Milwaukee Bucks, are crucial for their draft positioning.
Head coach Tuomas Iisalo might aim for morale-boosting wins, but the stakes in these matchups against fellow lottery contenders are significant. Currently sitting eighth-worst in the league, the Grizzlies have a 6% chance at the top pick and a 7.2% shot at a top-four selection. There's also the possibility of slipping to the 10th pick.
If the Grizzlies can secure the fifth-worst record, their odds for a top-four pick increase to 10.5%. Surpassing the Jazz in the standings would likely guarantee a top-8 pick. Climbing past the Dallas Mavericks and New Orleans Pelicans, both teams striving to win, could boost Memphis's chances to 9% for prospects like Cam Boozer, Darius Acuff, AJ Dybantsa, or Kingston Flemings.
Landing players like Caleb Wilson or Nate Ament would be a preferable outcome over settling for Mikel Brown Jr. or Brayden Burries. The Grizzlies are aiming for a franchise cornerstone in this pivotal draft, rather than another late-lottery role player.
As for the Bulls, they're still fighting for respectability, and their March 16 matchup in Chicago marks the beginning of a challenging stretch for Memphis. The Grizzlies will face the Bulls again on March 28 at the FedEx Forum, during a grueling period of six games in nine days. Fatigue could lead to more losses, but fans should understand the bigger picture.
The Grizzlies will also face the Bucks on April 5, coinciding with Easter Sunday, before returning home to play the Cleveland Cavaliers on April 6. This schedule, including a high-altitude game in Denver followed by matchups against the Jazz and Houston Rockets, will test the team's endurance.
In a season marked by tough losses, the upcoming games will play a crucial role in determining the Grizzlies' draft position. The margin for error is slim, making these final contests vital for the team's future.