Two young teams will start from the same line on Wednesday night: 0-0, with a whole season still unwritten. But when the Utah Jazz visit the Memphis Grizzlies at 8:00 p.m. EDT, the opening chapter has a special spark. Cameron Boozer, the third pick in the draft, is set to lead Memphis into a new era. Across the floor, Utah will unveil its own prized rookie guard, Darryn Peterson, beside rising scorer Keyonte George.

Memphis finished last season with 25 wins, but its roster now has a different shape. Boozer is the central character. At 6-foot-8 and 250 pounds, he can use strong moves near the basket, handle the ball like a smaller player, and find teammates with sharp passes. He does not need to soar over defenders to make an impact. His footwork, touch, and smart choices can help the Grizzlies create good shots when the game gets tight.

Boozer’s most important partner could be Zach Edey. The 7-foot-3 center played only 11 games last season, yet he averaged 11.1 rebounds. That number shows how often Edey can end a defensive stop by grabbing the ball. His soft touch around the rim also gives Memphis a huge target inside. Utah’s Jusuf Nurkic is out, so Edey may see a chance to control the paint. Still, Utah center Jaren Jackson Jr. brings quick feet, shot blocking, and the ability to shoot from outside, which could pull Edey away from the basket.

The Grizzlies will need help from their wings, especially if Jerami Grant is ready to play after being listed day-to-day. Grant scored 18.6 points per game last season and can hit three-pointers or create a shot when the offense stalls. Isaiah Stewart is out, making Edey’s work on rebounds even more important. Memphis also must take care of the ball. Its 15.1 turnovers per game last season often gave opponents extra chances.

Utah had its own rough record a year ago, finishing with 22 wins, but its attack showed real punch. The Jazz scored 117.6 points per game and shared the ball well, with 29.6 assists. George is the engine. He averaged 23.6 points and 6.1 assists, mixing pull-up shots with passes to open teammates. Peterson adds another guard who can drive, shoot, and create, so Memphis will face waves of pressure on the perimeter.

That pressure can open paths for Lauri Markkanen. The 7-foot-1 forward averaged 26.7 points last season by racing off screens, catching passes, and attacking open space. Ace Bailey can add length and scoring around them. Utah must still improve its defense after allowing too many tough nights last season, and Boozer will challenge its young frontcourt with strength.

This opener is a race between two rebuilding stories. Memphis has the home floor, Edey’s size, and Boozer’s first chance to shine. Yet Utah enters with more proven scoring options in George, Markkanen, and Jackson. The Jazz should win if their guards keep the ball moving and make Memphis chase all night.

Cameron Boozer Begins Memphis Story Against Utah’s New Guard Duo