The Memphis Grizzlies head into the 2025-26 NBA season with an intriguing mix of star power, proven veterans, and young talent. While injuries to key players loom large, the team’s depth chart offers a clear picture of both the opportunities and challenges ahead.
Memphis Grizzlies 2025-26 Depth Chart: Strengths, Concerns, and X-Factors
Point Guard: Ja Morant Leads the Way
Ja Morant remains the face of the franchise and the primary driver of the Grizzlies’ offense. His elite combination of speed, playmaking, and scoring makes him one of the most dangerous guards in the league. After dealing with injuries in previous seasons, Morant’s health will be a focal point for Memphis. Behind him, Scotty Pippen Jr. provides a steady hand with improving shooting range and defensive instincts. Spencer adds depth and energy, offering a spark off the bench when called upon. The point guard rotation is arguably Memphis’ most stable position.
Shooting Guard: Veteran Stability with Caldwell-Pope
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope brings championship experience and perimeter shooting, which complements Morant’s drive and kick style. He remains one of the league’s more underrated defenders, capable of guarding multiple positions. Ty Jerome adds another ball handler who can knock down open threes and facilitate in spot minutes. Cedric Coward is more of an unknown at the NBA level, but he has the opportunity to carve out a role as an energy defender and transition threat.
Small Forward: Young Wings with Upside
The small forward position blends youth and potential. Jaylen Wells, entering the season as the projected starter, has shown flashes of being a high-level scorer with length and athleticism. If he can improve his consistency from deep, he could be a breakout candidate. GG Jackson and Vince Williams Jr. continue to develop as versatile two-way players, bringing size, defensive versatility, and emerging offensive confidence. Jackson adds depth and physicality, providing insurance for matchups that require stronger wing defense.
Power Forward: Jackson Jr.’s Health is the Key
The most significant question mark in the Grizzlies’ frontcourt is Jaren Jackson Jr.‘s health. The reigning Defensive Player of the Year candidate has been sidelined, and his return timeline will significantly influence Memphis’ early-season performance. His ability to space the floor offensively while anchoring the paint defensively makes him a cornerstone of the team’s identity. Santi Aldama will likely see an increased role in Jackson’s absence. His shooting touch and high basketball IQ make him a strong plug-in starter, while Hall provides additional frontcourt depth and hustle.
Center: Injuries Test the Depth
The center position is another injury concern, with rookie standout Zach Edey sidelined. Edey’s size and interior scoring were expected to be a significant asset for Memphis this season. His absence pressures Brandon Clarke, who returns after missing considerable time due to injury. Clarke’s mobility, rebounding, and finishing ability make him a solid option, but his health will also be closely monitored. Jock Landale offers veteran depth and a physical presence inside. While not a high-volume scorer, his screens, rebounding, and defensive positioning make him a reliable rotation piece.
Outlook for the 2025-26 Season
The Grizzlies’ success this year may hinge on the return of Jackson Jr. and Edey. With both sidelined, Memphis will need to lean heavily on its guard play and wing depth early in the season. Ja Morant’s leadership and ability to elevate those around him will be critical, while veterans like Caldwell-Pope and Aldama must provide stability. The young wings, Wells, Jackson, and Williams Jr., have a golden opportunity to prove they can contribute consistently on both ends of the floor. If the Grizzlies can weather the early injury storm, their depth chart suggests they could be one of the most dangerous teams in the Western Conference by playoff time. But until they are fully healthy, Memphis will need to grind out wins and rely on its deep bench to keep them in the hunt.
© Chris Day/The Commercial Appeal / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
The post The Grizzlies Strengths and Concerns for the 2025-26 NBA Season appeared first on Last Word On Basketball.