Memphis Grizzlies Banking on Zach Edey’s Multi-Position Potential
In the dynamic landscape of the NBA, the Memphis Grizzlies are making calculated moves to stay competitive, and one of those moves revolves around their new rookie prospect, Zach Edey. Standing at an imposing 7-foot-4 and weighing in at 300 pounds, Edey is hard to miss. His physical dominance in the paint is noteworthy, yet the Grizzlies have a broader vision for him, aiming to transform this towering center into a versatile perimeter player.
Coach Taylor Jenkins has taken a keen interest in Edey’s transition from a traditional center to a player with a more dynamic game. Jenkins remarked on Edey’s dedication, stating, "He's been pouring in the work. Pre-practice, post-practice, he's coming in at night shooting." The coach is clearly committed to developing Edey's shooting abilities, emphasizing a strategic shift from pure paint performance to potentially becoming a dual threat on the court.
Zach Edey isn’t shy about his ambitions. Despite only attempting two 3-pointers during his college career, one of which was a successful banked shot, Edey is confident in his shooting potential. "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 asserts, suggesting he welcomes the challenge of evolving his gameplay.
The Grizzlies draw parallels between Edey and former Memphis center Jonas Valančiūnas, yet they also see a kinship with Brook Lopez’s style. Lopez has successfully transformed his role to include perimeter shooting, a model Edey is keen to emulate. “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 explains, reflecting on his role within the Grizzlies’ lineup.
For a rookie, Edey carries a mature understanding of his strengths and areas for growth. "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, acknowledging the skills that have brought him this far. But it’s clear he is also open to elevating his game beyond traditional boundaries.
Edey's drive to evolve will be put to the test soon. The Grizzlies face the Dallas Mavericks in their first preseason game, providing Edey an early opportunity to exhibit his progress. During an open practice, Edey teamed up with fellow Grizzly Luke Kennard in a shooting contest, though they fell short against Desmond Bane and Jake LaRavia. It's a lighthearted indication of the journey ahead, emphasizing the blend of competition and camaraderie that defines NBA teams.
In Edey, Memphis sees a player with untapped potential—a giant of a man infused with the spirit to adapt, learn, and redefine his limits. Under Jenkins’ nurturing guidance, and through a rigorous regimen, the Grizzlies are hopeful that Edey's dedication will translate into success on the floor, turning this promising prospect into a cornerstone of their future endeavors.