An anonymous NBA executive is already calling it: Cameron Boozer, the third overall pick, is locked in to win Rookie of the Year next season. Seriously, this isn’t just a bold take, it’s a peek into what’s brewing for the 2027 award race, and it totally sets up one of the most intriguing storylines we’ve seen in a while.
The Duke Standout Built For Impact
So, what’s got this exec so fired up about Boozer? The guy’s a winner, plain and simple. “Boozer is a winner, and he’s won things his entire young life,” the executive told ESPN’s Brian Windhorst. Boozer led Duke to a ridiculous 35-3 record, only falling in the East Regional Final. You don’t get that kind of success without a serious game. He put up 22.5 points, 10.2 rebounds, 4.1 assists, 1.4 steals, and 0.6 blocks per game on 55.6% shooting in 38 games. We’re talking about a 6’9″ forward with three-level scoring, exceptional court vision, and reliable floor spacing. His game is polished and mature, making him capable of an immediate impact. It feels like he’s ready to become the face of Grizzlies basketball, no joke.
Why the Underdog Story Is So Perfect
Here’s the kicker: Boozer is heading to a rebuilding Memphis Grizzlies team that’s expected to be among the league’s worst. Normally, you think a top pick on a bad team might struggle, but for ROTY, it’s actually a golden opportunity. The award often goes to the No. 1 pick, like Cooper Flagg, Victor Wembanyama, or Paolo Banchero. But this year, AJ Dybantsa, who was also a first-rounder, is playing for a stacked Wizards squad with veterans Trae Young and Anthony Davis. Dybantsa might not get the minutes or the numbers to stand out. That leaves the door wide open for Boozer to absolutely steal the spotlight and shock everyone. He’ll be the “bright spot” on his team, according to that exec, and that’s exactly the kind of narrative ROTY voters often gravitate toward. Plus, with Jerami Grant and Zach Edey joining him, maybe the Grizzlies won’t be totally unwatchable.
It’s clear Cameron Boozer has the talent and the approach to be the NBA’s next Rookie of the Year. We’ll have to wait and see how it all shakes out, but this kid’s only goal is helping the Grizzlies win, personal accolades just being icing on the cake. This is a story to watch, for sure!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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