Memphis Grizzlies Bet on Zach Edey's Potential
In a league where versatility and adaptability are king, the Memphis Grizzlies are looking to unlock the untapped potential of their rookie prospect, Zach Edey. Standing at a towering 7-foot-4 and weighing 300 pounds, Edey embodies a traditional center's physique, built to dominate the paint and protect the glass. However, the Grizzlies have their sights set on evolving his game beyond his formidable presence under the basket.
Zach Edey joined the ranks of the Memphis Grizzlies with expectations that exceeded what a typical rookie might face. Most known for his dominance around the rim, Edey’s stature gives him an undeniable advantage in carving out space in the paint — something he acknowledges with confidence. As Edey himself put it, "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." It is clear that he understands his role’s physicality, yet the Grizzlies have a transformational agenda for him.
Grizzlies head coach Taylor Jenkins has been closely invested in Edey's development, emphasizing the shift from purely a center role to a player capable of influencing the game from the perimeter. Jenkins has been strategic in his approach, prioritizing Edey's shooting capabilities and overall game intelligence. "He's been pouring in the work. Pre-practice, post-practice, he's coming in at night shooting," Jenkins said, underscoring the dedication Edey has shown in adapting to his new role.
For Edey, this transition is not just about proving his adaptability but is also about seizing an opportunity to showcase a skill he's always believed in. Despite attempting only two 3-pointers throughout his four-year college career, he firmly asserts his shooting abilities. "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 noted.
The Grizzlies' tactical vision involves reimagining Edey’s role, hoping to emulate the multifaceted game of the Milwaukee Bucks' center Brook Lopez. Jenkins has expressed a desire for Edey to feel he has the authority to make on-court decisions freely. "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 remarked. This approach could help evolve Edey's game to better adapt to the evolving demands of modern basketball.
Edey’s sense of humor and self-awareness make the transition even more intriguing. Reflecting on his new role and the Grizzlies' expectations, he commented, "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 jest reveals his acknowledgment of the high bar set for him and his belief in shouldering that responsibility.
The comparisons to former Memphis center Jonas Valančiūnas further outline the trajectory envisioned for Edey—a player who can switch between controlling the paint and stretching defenses with his outside shot. In addition, during open practice sessions, Edey's competitive nature was on display when he was paired with Luke Kennard in a shooting contest, pitching against peers Desmond Bane and Jake LaRavia. Although Edey and Kennard did not win, it showcased the young prospect’s willingness to step into new challenges.
As the season approaches, all eyes will be keenly focused on Edey's debut, particularly during the Grizzlies' first preseason game against the Dallas Mavericks. The team is committed to nurturing Edey’s growth, and, with a dedicated support system and an untiring work ethic, he might soon redefine his position's conventional boundaries.
The Memphis Grizzlies' approach to Edey’s potential, though unconventional, highlights the untapped reservoir of talent waiting to be discovered. If Edey's transition is successful, he could set a precedent for future centers in the NBA—proving that even giants can adapt, evolve, and redefine what is possible on the basketball court. While challenges remain, Coach Jenkins and Edey's shared vision could very well lead to remarkable transformations, both for Edey and the team as a whole. As these initial steps are taken, determined effort from both coach and player will be crucial in unlocking the multifaceted player that Edey aims to become. With work ethic and opportunities steadily aligning, the rookie's journey with the Grizzlies holds intriguing potential for both Memphis and the league at large.