Zach Edey: A Towering Prospect with Potential Beyond the Paint
The Memphis Grizzlies are nurturing a potential game-changer in their ranks: Zach Edey. Standing tall at 7-foot-4 and weighing in at 300 pounds, Edey is a promising rookie prospect with a physical presence that naturally dominates the paint. "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 confidently states, embracing his mandate on the court.
However, the Grizzlies see more in Edey than just his imposing size. Coach Taylor Jenkins is spearheading efforts to evolve Edey’s game beyond a traditional center role, drawing inspiration from modern centers like Brook Lopez who successfully transition to perimeter threats. "He's been pouring in the work. Pre-practice, post-practice, he's coming in at night shooting," Jenkins affirms, underscoring the rookie's dedication to refining his shooting capabilities. Edey's shift in focus is part of a broader strategy to diversify the Grizzlies' offensive arsenal.
The endeavor to develop Edey's game beyond the paint isn't merely a tactical adjustment; it aligns with strategic comparisons to players such as Jonas Valančiūnas, a former Memphis center, and notably Brook Lopez of the Milwaukee Bucks. Edey identifies with Lopez, recognizing the need to space the floor for a dynamic playmaker. But instead of playing a supporting role, Edey envisions himself as a central figure: "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 aspiration highlights Edey's ambitions to evolve into more than just a conventional big man.
While the comparisons are notable, Edey's transition remains a work in progress. His collegiate career saw him attempt just two 3-pointers, with one notable success. Despite the limited in-game reps, Edey remains confident in his shooting skills. "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, highlighting his belief in his ability to extend his range.
The upcoming challenge for Edey and the Grizzlies begins with their first preseason game against the Dallas Mavericks. This matchup not only serves as an introduction of Edey’s potential new role to fans but also as a testing ground for his evolving skills. Off the court, Edey continues to showcase his shooting talents in competitive settings, teaming up with Luke Kennard in a shooting contest during an open practice. Despite losing to Desmond Bane and Jake LaRavia, this exercise marks an encouraging step for Edey's development.
Coach Jenkins emphasizes the importance of patience and game awareness in Edey's journey: "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." The signal could not be clearer—Edey is expected to take the initiative and capitalize on opportunities to showcase his versatility on the court.
As Edey embarks on this transformative journey with the Memphis Grizzlies, his potential impact echoes beyond Memphis. By embracing both his innate physical gifts and expanding his skill set, Edey stands on the verge of redefining what a center can achieve in the modern NBA. The development of his perimeter game, combined with his established prowess in the paint, signals the evolution of a player who could soon align himself with the greats who blend size with skill.