Embracing New Heights: Zach Edey's Journey with the Memphis Grizzlies
As the Memphis Grizzlies gear up for their new preseason against the Dallas Mavericks, much attention has been drawn to their intriguing prospect, Zach Edey. Towering at 7-foot-4 and weighing in at 300 pounds, Edey presents a physical presence that promises to be pivotal in the paint. Yet, his potential extends beyond the conventional role that his stature might suggest.
Edey's journey from a dominant collegiate player to an emerging NBA talent is marked by an effort to diversify his game. Known for his capabilities in the paint, Edey acknowledges his built-in advantage, stating, "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." His candidness is refreshing, yet it belies the broader evolution he is undertaking under the guidance of Grizzlies' coach Taylor Jenkins.
Reimagining the Role
Edey is hardly content with just being a behemoth in the paint. Instead, the Grizzlies are aiming to transition his gameplay from a traditional center to a more dynamic perimeter role. This strategic development is drawing numerous comparisons: Jonas Valančiūnas's former role with Memphis offers a historical parallel, while current playing styles evoke likenesses to Brook Lopez. Edey humorously quips, “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.”
The coaching staff is equally optimistic about Edey's potential. Coach Jenkins is enthusiastic about fostering Edey's shooting abilities, remarking, "He's been pouring in the work. Pre-practice, post-practice, he's coming in at night shooting." Such commitment is essential in transforming Edey from his paint-dominant stature to a more versatile player capable of shifting defenses out to the perimeter.
The Long-Range Journey
Edey's evolution as a shooter is an integral element of his transition. Although his college career saw him attempt only two three-pointers, with just one made by banking it in, Edey remains steadfast in his belief 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," he asserts confidently.
The process, as Edey describes it, isn't merely about mechanics but also about mindset. Coach Jenkins emphasizes this shift, saying, "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." Such trust is not often afforded to rookies but speaks volumes of the confidence the organization has in Edey's capabilities.
Testing the Waters
Edey, while focused on his individual growth, is also proving his competitive spirit alongside teammates. During an open practice, he paired with Luke Kennard in a shooting contest. Despite their best efforts, they were bested by Desmond Bane and Jake LaRavia. It reflects not just on Edey's abilities, but on the camaraderie and competitive nature permeating the Grizzlies' squad.
As the season approaches, all eyes will be on how Edey’s skills translate against NBA competition. The preseason match-up with the Mavericks will be an early opportunity to glimpse how this tower of talent adapts and evolves. The Memphis Grizzlies appear committed to nurturing his transformation, cultivating a potential cornerstone who can redefine what it means to dominate both the paint and beyond.
In Zach Edey, the Grizzlies have more than just size and strength. They have a player seeking to defy expectations and redefine his potential in the NBA landscape. His journey promises to be an exciting narrative for Memphis fans and basketball enthusiasts alike.