A New Hope: Zach Edey and the Memphis Grizzlies' Big Bet
The Memphis Grizzlies are setting ambitious plans in motion with their latest rookie prospect, Zach Edey. Standing at an imposing 7-foot-4 and weighing 300 pounds, Edey possesses the physical attributes of an ideal center. However, the Grizzlies envision a broader role for him, aiming to transform his court presence from a purely paint-bound giant to a versatile player capable of contributing on the perimeter.
Over his four-year collegiate career, Edey attempted a mere two three-pointers, banking one successfully. Despite his limited forays beyond the arc, his determination to grow this facet of his game has not gone unnoticed. The Grizzlies' coaching staff, led by Taylor Jenkins, recognizes the work Edey has been putting in to expand his arsenal. "He's been pouring in the work. Pre-practice, post-practice, he's coming in at night shooting," Jenkins notes, highlighting Edey's commitment to advancing his shooting abilities.
Edey is aware of the expectations. "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 states confidently. Yet, there's a clear sense of ambition to evolve. "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."
The transformation of Edey from an imposing figure in the paint to a shooting threat on the perimeter is a journey that the Grizzlies are keen to embark on. Comparisons to former Memphis center Jonas Valančiūnas and current NBA talent Brook Lopez underline Edey's potential versatility. The Grizzlies see an opportunity to develop a player who can emulate Lopez's ability to space the floor, reflecting a more contemporary, dynamic style of play.
"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 remarks, emphasizing patience in Edey’s development process. This patient approach aims to ensure that Edey's growth is steady and sustainable, giving him the confidence to make game-changing plays when the opportunity arises.
Edey encapsulates the team's ambitious plans with a perspective that aligns with his potential role. "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 outlook may seem bold, but it reflects the implicit trust and belief the Grizzlies have in his capabilities.
The Grizzlies' preseason opener against the Dallas Mavericks could serve as an initial testing ground for Edey's expanded role. The team's strategy to refine his skills was underscored during a recent open practice, where Edey partnered with Luke Kennard in a shooting contest. Although they lost to Desmond Bane and Jake LaRavia, the experience was invaluable for Edey, demonstrating the pressure of fine-tuning a new skill set in a competitive environment.
As the Grizzlies start their season, the basketball world will be watching to see how Zach Edey adapts to this new phase in his career. With a determined mindset and the Grizzlies' structured support, he stands at the cusp of redefining his role in the NBA, setting the stage for a future where he could transform into a key player both inside and outside the paint.