Memphis Grizzlies Look to Unleash Potential of Rookie Prospect Zach Edey
The Memphis Grizzlies have a new giant on their roster, and his name is Zach Edey. Standing at an imposing 7-foot-4 and weighing 300 pounds, Edey enters professional basketball with an intriguing mix of raw athleticism and undeveloped potential. Known primarily for his physical prowess and impactful presence in the paint during his college years, Edey is embarking on a journey to expand his skill set, under the keen eye of the Grizzlies’ coaching staff.
Edey developed a reputation throughout his four-year college career for his ability to dominate near the basket. His sheer size makes him a natural center, adept at carving out space and protecting his territory. “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 stated confidently. However, the Grizzlies see more than just a paint-dweller in him.
A Transformative Vision
Coach Taylor Jenkins is spearheading an initiative to evolve Edey's game from a traditional center role into a more versatile position that includes a perimeter presence. Jenkins believes in creating a growth environment that enhances Edey's shooting capabilities, seeking to transform him into a player who can stretch the floor. “He's been pouring in the work. Pre-practice, post-practice, he's coming in at night shooting,” Jenkins noted, emphasizing the rookie’s dedication. "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."
One intriguing comparison that surfaces in discussions about Edey's potential trajectory is Jonas Valančiūnas, the former Memphis center who was known for his efficiency around the rim. Edey also evokes parallels to Brook Lopez, a player who successfully transitioned his game to include an outside shooting threat. Edey himself acknowledges this comparison, drawing a more ambitious parallel with one of the league's greats. “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,” he remarked, alluding to his aspiration to become a more crucial focal point offensively.
The Shooting Endeavor
Despite being known for his inside game, Edey has attempted to break out of this mold. His college statistics reflect a player not heavily engaged beyond the arc; he attempted only two 3-pointers over four years, successfully banking one of them. “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 expressed, illustrating both a belief in his ability and an acknowledgment of the journey ahead.
On-court practices and team activities reflect these ambitions. During a recent open practice, Edey joined forces with Luke Kennard for a shooting contest, marking an effort to push his boundaries and develop his range. However, the duo fell short, losing to teammates Desmond Bane and Jake LaRavia. Despite the loss, such exercises are critical stepping stones in Edey’s development journey.
The Road Ahead
As the Grizzlies gear up for their first preseason game against the Dallas Mavericks, the eyes of the team and the fans are on Edey. His transition from a conventional center to a multifaceted player will undoubtedly require patience, determination, and strategic planning by the coaching staff. The aspiration is clear: unleash the full spectrum of Edey’s capabilities and turn him into a linchpin for the Grizzlies. Until then, the basketball world will watch closely, eager to see how this towering prospect adapts and evolves on the NBA stage.