Memphis Grizzlies Have High Hopes for Rookie Zach Edey
The Memphis Grizzlies are nurturing a unique talent in their latest rookie, Zach Edey, who stands out not just for his towering 7-foot-4 frame and 300-pound build but also for his potential to transform his game from a traditional center role to one with a perimeter focus. Edey's college basketball history marked by a mere two attempted three-pointers—where one was successfully banked in—illustrates the significant transition ahead. However, under the vigilant eye of Grizzlies’ head coach Taylor Jenkins, there is a palpable optimism around Edey’s development.
During a recent conversation, Edey emphasized his natural inclination toward playing within the paint. "I'm a 7-foot-4, 300-pound guy. I'm built to be in the paint, to carve out space, to protect my area, and that's what I'm going to keep doing," he stated confidently. His physical presence is undeniable, drawing comparisons to former Memphis center Jonas Valančiūnas, and, in terms of playing style, to NBA veteran Brook Lopez. However, Edey's trajectory is set to diverge as Jenkins and the team aim to refine his shooting abilities, extending his impact beyond the paint.
The journey won't be instantaneous. Jenkins is committed to fostering Edey’s growth patiently. "He's been pouring in the work. Pre-practice, post-practice, he's coming in at night shooting," Jenkins noted. This dedication is part of Jenkins' strategy to ensure Edey becomes more adept with the ball and more decisive on the court, granting him the confidence to take full advantage of his skills. "I think I just want the game and the decision-making to come to him... I want him to feel like he has the green light," Jenkins added.
Perhaps most intriguing is Edey's self-aware comparison to Milwaukee's Brook Lopez, but with a twist. "Yeah, like, Lopez has to space the floor because they've got Giannis [Antetokounmpo]. On this team, I'm the Giannis, and people space around me," Edey explained. This ambitious mindset could redefine how the Grizzlies integrate his unique skill set into their gameplay strategy.
Looking ahead to the first preseason game against the Dallas Mavericks, there's a sense of anticipation surrounding Edey's debut. The team anticipates testing the early phases of this new dynamic and evaluating how Edey, alongside his teammates, can perform under actual game conditions.
Off-court, Edey's commitment to sharpening his skills was evident during an open practice shooting contest. Despite partnering with Luke Kennard, Edey and his team fell short against opponents Desmond Bane and Jake LaRavia. However, these playful contests underscore his willingness to develop his shooting prowess, an aspect of his arsenal that remains underutilized but full of potential. "I've always said I can shoot. Like, you see it from the free throw line. Obviously, I haven't gotten those in-game reps up and it's going to be a process, but I've always believed I can shoot," Edey remarked, expressing confidence in his evolving capability.
As the Grizzlies prepare for the upcoming season, Edey's journey is a compelling storyline of transformation and growth. The team’s strategic investment in his development suggests not only a long-term vision but also a belief in Edey's capacity to become a versatile force on the court. If Edey can translate his hard work and the coaching staff's guidance into noticeable progress, he could become a pivotal player for the Grizzlies, altering not just his own career trajectory but also the team's future dynamics.