Maximizing a possible Darryn Peterson selection at #3 overall in the NBA Draft for the Grizzlies
The Locked On Grizzlies podcast debates whether Darren Peterson is the best-case scenario for the Memphis Grizzlies at #3 overall in the 2026 NBA Draft, challenging the popular preference for Cam Boozer. Co-host Michael Cole argues that Peterson offers a rare combination of a 'safe floor' (comparable to Jamal Murray) and elite ceiling (on par with Anthony Edwards), with elite defensive instincts, three-level scoring, and positional versatility. He emphasizes that Peterson’s ability to play both guard and wing roles makes him more valuable than a traditional power forward like Boozer, especially in a draft where the Grizzlies could pair him with a glue-type big like Yaxel Lindenburg or Hein Steinbeck. The episode pivots on a strategic draft board play: selecting Peterson at #3, then trading up to #10 to grab Lindenburg, creating a high-impact backcourt and frontcourt duo. Joe Mullinax counters with Boozer’s safety and proven college production, but ultimately concedes that the Peterson-Lindenburg combo could be superior if the draft unfolds perfectly. The episode closes with a fun 82-0 fantasy lineup featuring Ja Morant, Allen Iverson, and Jaren Jackson Jr., highlighting the team’s nostalgic and high-scoring potential.
Darren Peterson offers a 'Jamal Murray floor, Anthony Edwards ceiling' — a rare blend of safety and elite upside.
Peterson’s three-level scoring and defensive versatility make him a better fit than a traditional power forward in today’s NBA.
The best-case draft strategy: take Peterson at #3, then trade up to #10 to draft Yaxel Lindenburg as a glue guy.
Yaxel Lindenburg is projected as a top-tier defensive rebounder and transition threat, potentially more impactful than a high-upside power forward.
The Grizzlies could use their three first-round picks (including a protected Lakers pick) to execute a two-for-one draft haul.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Why Darren Peterson is the Best Case Scenario
“The floor is Jamal Murray. Yes, you heard me. All-star guard. I mean, he just came to all-star this year, right? Yeah, correct. But yeah, that's the floor. Jamal Murray is really good, but there's levels.”
Positional Versatility and the Power Forward Problem
“The power forward position, you can make an argument, is the least valuable position in the NBA. And again, you get a trend, you get a power forward that's incredible, throw that out of the window.”
The Draft Board Play: Peterson at #3, Lindenburg at #10
“If you get Peterson and Yaxel, that's better than getting Booger because I, that Yaxal is a 16 game guy. Point blank period. That's a thing you bring in and say that guy is going to help me win a championship.”
The Case Against Cam Boozer and the Value of Draft Flexibility
Joe Mullinax acknowledges Boozer’s safety but argues that taking him at #3 limits the Grizzlies' ability to target elite bigs like Lindenburg or Steinbeck later in the draft.
82-0 Fantasy Lineup: The Grizzlies’ Ultimate Dream Team
The hosts play a fun 82-0 game, building a fictional starting five from Grizzlies legends and all-time greats, including Ja Morant, Allen Iverson, and Jaren Jackson Jr.
“If you're able to pull off Darren Peterson and Yaxel, that's better than that. You'll take that over. Ooh. That's better than getting Booger because I, that Yaxal is a 16. game guy. Point blank period. That's a thing you bring in and say that guy is going to help me win a championship.”
“The power forward position, you can make an argument, is the least valuable position in the NBA.”
“But hey, the game is a cheat code at numerous spots anyway. So anyway, let us know in the comments. Hit us up on X, add your Mullen X after Michael C. What's our record?”
Hosts
michael cole
person
joe mullinax
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darren peterson
person
cam boozer
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yaxel lindenburg
person
ja morant
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jaren jackson jr.
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allen iverson
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pau gasol
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sharif abdur rahim
person
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