A New Era for the Memphis Grizzlies: Developing Zach Edey’s Perimeter Game
As the Memphis Grizzlies prepare for their upcoming preseason contest against the Dallas Mavericks, one name stands out in the conversation around their roster: Zach Edey. This 7-foot-4, 300-pound rookie prospect has become a focal point for the team's future aspirations, drawing significant attention due to both his physical stature and his intriguing potential to transform his game.
The Grizzlies' ambition to evolve Edey’s role from a traditional center to a more versatile player marks a fascinating shift in their developmental strategies. Known primarily for his dominance in the paint, Edey embodies the physical presence typical of a player built to "carve out space" and "protect" his area. However, under the guidance of Coach Taylor Jenkins, the Grizzlies are exploring new dimensions to Edey’s gameplay.
Potential Beyond the Paint
Since taking charge, Coach Jenkins has been dedicated to expanding Edey’s skill set, placing a significant emphasis on his shooting capabilities. "He's been pouring in the work," Jenkins remarked. "Pre-practice, post-practice, he's coming in at night shooting." The coach’s words speak volumes about Edey’s commitment to enhancing his game and embracing the challenges of developing a perimeter offense.
Despite only attempting two three-pointers during his four-year college career—one of which he successfully banked—Edey is eager to prove his shooting acumen. "I've always said I can shoot," Edey stated with a quiet confidence. "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 task at hand is not just about shooting but also about decision-making and allowing Edey to feel natural when extending his game beyond the paint. As Jenkins put it, "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."
Drawing Comparisons and Defying Expectations
The journey of expanding Edey's role draws inevitable comparisons to former Memphis center Jonas Valančiūnas, as well as the versatile Brook Lopez. The latter has notably adapted his game to simultaneously accommodate his own skills and complement the star talent of Giannis Antetokounmpo in Milwaukee. Edey himself acknowledges this comparison and aims to carve out a similar niche within the Grizzlies’ system. "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," he mused.
Such bold aspirations are a testament to Edey’s mindset and the team's faith in his potential. The Grizzlies are no strangers to defying expectations, and embracing Edey’s potential renaissance from a traditional center to a multifaceted asset is entirely in line with their innovative ethos.
A Competitive Edge in Development
During an open practice, Edey teamed up with Luke Kennard in a shooting contest against teammates Desmond Bane and Jake LaRavia. Despite their loss, the exercise was indicative of the competitive yet supportive environment that the Grizzlies are fostering around Edey’s development.
As the first preseason games approach, all eyes will be on Edey and his progression as a more dynamic player on the court. How effectively he can incorporate a perimeter game while maintaining his formidable presence in the paint remains a pivotal question for Memphis.
For Grizzlies fans eager to witness the evolution of a potentially game-changing player, the journey of Zach Edey provides a sense of anticipation and excitement. His transformation stands not only as a personal landmark but also as a potential catalyst for a team on the rise.