Cameron Boozer Flashes All-Around Game in Grizzlies Preseason Debut

Cameron Boozer gave Memphis its first preseason look at the player expected to become a centerpiece of the franchise, and the No. 3 overall pick showed more than just scoring. Boozer finished with 11 points, five rebounds, four assists and two steals in 18 minutes Monday as the Grizzlies defeated the Atlanta Hawks 132-123. He shot 5-of-9 from the field while working within a limited preseason workload.

The most encouraging part of Boozer’s debut was the variety of ways he affected the game. He created offense out of the post, moved the ball and generated extra possessions defensively. His first preseason basket came on a fadeaway over former Duke standout Jalen Johnson, but Memphis did not need Boozer to force shots. The rookie led the Grizzlies in shot attempts during his minutes and still finished with four assists against only one turnover.

Preseason numbers should always be kept in perspective, but Boozer’s role matters. Memphis selected him third overall after his National Player of the Year season at Duke and is building a new era around its young core. Monday’s performance offered an early glimpse of why: Boozer can contribute even when his three-point shot is not falling, giving the Grizzlies multiple ways to put him at the center of their offense.