Inside the Memphis Grizzlies' Development of Zach Edey
The Memphis Grizzlies are placing a sizeable bet on their towering rookie prospect, Zach Edey. Standing at an imposing 7-foot-4 and weighing 300 pounds, Edey has quickly become a focal point for the future of the franchise. With a storied college career largely spent dominating the paint, Edey is embracing a unique challenge under the watchful eye of Coach Taylor Jenkins. The ambition is clear: transform Edey from a traditional center to a versatile player who can stretch defenses to the perimeter.
The Grizzlies' intent to evolve Edey's game is evident in their preseason training methods. Coach Jenkins is dedicating time and resources to enhancing Edey’s shooting abilities, encouraging the young center to expand his comfort zone beyond the painted area. "He's been pouring in the work. Pre-practice, post-practice, he's coming in at night shooting," Jenkins highlighted. This commitment underscores the franchise's belief in Edey’s potential to impact games beyond his already formidable presence inside.
While Edey attempted just two 3-pointers during his four years in college, banking one successfully, he remains confident in his shooting prowess. "I've always said I can shoot. Like, you see it from the free throw line," Edey noted, expressing a strong self-belief in his ability to adapt to an evolved role on-court. "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." Such an acknowledgment captures not only his readiness to evolve but also his trust in the developmental journey mapped out by Jenkins.
Drawing Comparisons
Edey’s skill set and potential have drawn comparisons to some of the notable big men in the league. His ability to command attention in the paint has been likened to Jonas Valančiūnas, the former Memphis center known for his solid interior play. However, it's Brook Lopez of the Milwaukee Bucks whose modern playing style serves as a primary inspiration for Edey. "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 articulated with a mixture of humor and aspiration.
Such comparisons are not unfounded. Lopez himself transformed his game from a post-oriented player to a critical stretch-five, adding depth to the Bucks' offensive schemes. The Grizzlies hope for a similar evolution with Edey, with the broader aim being to make his physical presence a more dynamic part of their game plan.
Open Practice Showdown
Edey’s development was put to test during an open practice shooting contest, where he teamed up with Luke Kennard. Together, they competed against Desmond Bane and Jake LaRavia. While Edey and Kennard fell short, the activity was far from being just a casual drill. It was a strategic exercise aimed at emphasizing precision and confidence in Edey's shooting—a tangible step in conditioning the rookie for his new role.
The Memphis Grizzlies have no illusions about the challenges ahead for Edey. Transitioning from a dominant interior player to one with broader offensive responsibilities requires patience, resilience, and continuity in performance. Yet, Coach Jenkins remains determined to see Edey through this evolution, providing him with the tools and encouragement necessary for success. According to Jenkins, "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."
Looking Toward the Future
As the Grizzlies gear up for their first preseason game against the Dallas Mavericks, fans are eager to watch Edey put his skills to the test. Edey himself remains grounded amidst the hype surrounding his potential transformation. "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 asserts, reinforcing his commitment to balance his natural strengths with new-found abilities.
While Edey's journey in the NBA is just beginning, the intrigue around his development continues to grow. The Grizzlies’ investment in reshaping his gameplay stands as a testament to their vision and the young center’s willingness to defy conventional expectations. As the upcoming season unfolds, Edey has the opportunity to redefine his contributions to Memphis, shifting the paradigm of what it means to be a center in today’s game. The basketball world eagerly watches as he embraces this challenge, poised to potentially become the next great big man with a limitless reach.