### Grizzlies Make Bold Move to Acquire Rising Star Cedric Coward in 2025 NBA Draft In a significant maneuver during the 2025 NBA Draft, the Memphis Grizzlies traded away their No. 16 pick along with two future first-round picks and two second-round picks to the Portland Trail Blazers. This strategic move was aimed at securing Washington State guard Cedric Coward, who was selected as the No. 11 overall pick. The Grizzlies' decision reflects their commitment to enhancing their roster and addressing their needs following the departure of key players, including Desmond Bane. Coward, known for his impressive skills and potential, is expected to make a substantial impact on the team moving forward [https://clutchpoints.com/nba/memphis-grizzlies/grizzlies-blazers-trade-grades-for-2025-nba-draft-deal][https://www.reuters.com/sports/nba-roundup-grizzlies-trade-4-picks-cedric-coward-2025-06-26/?link_source=ta_bluesky_link&taid=685cc377bd022a00015b8c58]. ### Breakdown of the Grizzlies' Trade Strategy 1. **Trade Details**: - The Grizzlies traded their No. 16 pick, two future first-round picks, and two second-round picks to acquire the No. 11 pick from the Trail Blazers. - This trade was executed to select Cedric Coward, a guard from Washington State, who had a promising but injury-affected college career. 2. **Player Profile**: - Cedric Coward is a 6-foot-6 guard known for his strong work ethic and remarkable wingspan. - He averaged 17.7 points, 7.0 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 1.7 blocks per game in a limited college season due to a shoulder injury [https://sports.yahoo.com/article/grizzlies-land-rising-star-cedric-013327172.html][https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/grizzlies_to_acquire_no_11_pick_take_player_coming_off_shoulder_injury/s1_14822_42376324]. 3. **Team Needs**: - The Grizzlies aimed to fill the gap left by Desmond Bane's departure, seeking more size and versatility on the wing. - Coward's skill set aligns with the team's strategic direction, focusing on building a competitive roster for the upcoming seasons [https://sports.yahoo.com/article/report-grizzlies-trade-picks-blazers-023913711.html]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Trade Impact**: - The Grizzlies' trade involved significant assets, indicating their strong belief in Coward's potential to contribute immediately and in the long term. - Coward's college statistics highlight his scoring ability and versatility, making him a valuable addition to the Grizzlies' lineup. - **Player Statistics**: - **Points per Game**: 17.7 - **Rebounds per Game**: 7.0 - **Assists per Game**: 3.7 - **Blocks per Game**: 1.7 - **Field Goal Percentage**: 55.7% - **Three-Point Percentage**: 40.0% [https://www.blackenterprise.com/cedric-coward-memphis-grizzlies-nba-draft-pick][https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/sports-games/3482428-grizzlies-make-bold-moves-in-nba-draft-night]. ### Conclusion: A Strategic Move for the Future The Memphis Grizzlies' decision to trade multiple picks for Cedric Coward underscores their ambition to strengthen their roster and build for the future. 1. **Strategic Trade**: The Grizzlies' willingness to part with significant draft capital reflects their confidence in Coward's potential impact on the team. 2. **Player Potential**: Coward's impressive college performance, despite injury setbacks, positions him as a promising asset for the Grizzlies. 3. **Team Direction**: This trade aligns with the Grizzlies' broader strategy of enhancing their competitiveness in the league, particularly after losing key players. Overall, the acquisition of Cedric Coward marks a pivotal moment for the Grizzlies as they look to reshape their roster and aim for success in the coming seasons [https://clutchpoints.com/nba/memphis-grizzlies/grizzlies-news-memphis-cedric-coward-no-11-pick-trade-blazers][https://www.spokesman.com/stories/2025/jun/25/wsus-cedric-coward-selected-no-11-overall-in-nba-d].