Memphis Grizzlies Banking on Zach Edey’s Potential
The Memphis Grizzlies may have found a hidden gem in rookie prospect Zach Edey, a towering figure at 7-foot-4 and 300 pounds. Known for his formidable presence in the paint, Edey's transition into the NBA aims to add more facets to his game, expanding his role from traditional center duties to a potential presence on the perimeter.
Grizzlies’ Coach Taylor Jenkins sees tremendous potential in Edey, focusing on cultivating not only his physical game but also his shooting prowess. "He's been pouring in the work. Pre-practice, post-practice, he's coming in at night shooting," Jenkins commented, highlighting the rookie’s commitment. Edey’s dedication even includes evening sessions, which speaks volumes about his work ethic and ambition to evolve his game.
A Paint Presence with Ambitions Beyond
Edey’s height and build naturally position him as a dominant force in the paint, which he readily embraces. "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," Edey affirmed. Yet, the Grizzlies organization has a broader vision, seeing a player who could potentially stretch the floor and contribute offensively from the perimeter.
Drawing comparisons to former Memphis center Jonas Valančiūnas and sharing stylistic similarities with Brook Lopez, Edey’s development is a compelling storyline for Grizzlies fans. It’s a challenge that requires honing skills not traditionally associated with someone of his size. Edey admitted, "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." His confidence is as towering as his stature, and it seems he has every intention of backing it up.
The New Giannis?
In a candid moment, Edey likened himself to an NBA superstar. "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." This self-assured comparison underscores the role Edey envisions for himself—a centerpiece around which the offense can revolve. While such a role requires versatility and finesse, qualities typically beyond the remit of a traditional center, Edey’s ambition is clear.
The level of intensity under the basket, combined with a developing shooting game, promises an exciting future. Edey’s journey will be watched closely as he strives to bring a new dimension not just to his game but potentially to the Grizzlies’ lineup as well.
Preseason Excitement
The team’s first preseason matchup against the Dallas Mavericks offers Edey an early opportunity to demonstrate his progress. It will be a litmus test for him to showcase if his offseason work translates into gameplay impact. The coaching staff is optimistic, with Coach Jenkins emphasizing, "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."
In a recent open practice event, Edey teamed up with Luke Kennard for a friendly shooting contest, only to be bested by teammates Desmond Bane and Jake LaRavia. Such moments, though light-hearted, are part of the competitive environment that encourages growth and camaraderie.
As the NBA season approaches, all eyes will be on Edey to see how his projected transformation unfolds. Whether he leaves his mark as a rim protector or emerges as a versatile scorer, his journey will undoubtedly add another exciting chapter to the Grizzlies' narrative.