In another draft night trade, the Portland Trail Blazers have traded their 11th pick in Washington State product Cedric Coward to the Memphis Grizzlies for the 16th pick, as well as a 2028 first-round pick and two second-rounders. The Cougar standout put together a fantastic senior season for WSU.
Averaging 18 points and 7 rebounds per game while also adding nearly two blocks on the defensive end makes Coward a balanced, two-way player worth this selection.
Coward’s Skillset & Fit with the Grizzlies
One of the better prospects in terms of two-way abilities in the draft, Coward shot an efficient 56% from the field and 40% from deep for the Cougars last season. After trading away Desmond Bane to Orlando, the Grizzlies now get a polished 3-and-D player to replenish their ranks. Coward’s physical profile also made him a prospect that Memphis couldn’t pass up, as Coward is one of the taller guards in the draft at 6’6, and also sports nearly a 7’2 wingspan, which makes him a very versatile player for the Grizzlies.
Final Thoughts
After the Bane trade, many experts expect Memphis to take a step back in the West. While those predictions remain yet to be proven wrong or right, this pick of Coward does allow Memphis to potentially avoid falling into a rebuild period with the skillset Coward brings to the table. Expect Coward to have a significant impact on the Grizzlies next season.
