Zach Edey's Evolution: From Paint Protector to Versatile Contender
The Memphis Grizzlies, known for their forward-thinking approach to player development and strategic gameplay evolution, have a new prospect on their radar: Zach Edey. Towering at 7-foot-4 and weighing 300 pounds, Edey is entering the NBA with not only his imposing physical presence but also the potential to redefine his role on the court.
A Giant in the Paint
Throughout his four-year college career, Edey was a formidable force in the paint, utilizing his size to carve out space and protect his area. “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,” declares Edey. This presence made him a staple of college basketball, though his attempts at broadening his skill set have begun to show.
Edey's college career saw him attempt just two 3-pointers, one of which he succeeded in banking. Despite limited in-game experience from beyond the arc, Edey has always maintained belief in his shooting capabilities, stating, “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.”
Transitioning to a Broader Role
The Grizzlies have expressed intentions to cultivate Edey’s gameplay, extending his influence beyond his current stronghold in the paint to a more versatile perimeter role. Drawing comparisons to former Memphis center Jonas Valančiūnas and emulating the playing style of Brook Lopez, Edey acknowledges the broader responsibilities he may assume on the court. “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 muses, hinting at an expanded role orchestrated by the Grizzlies.
Guidance and Growth Under Jenkins
Pivotal to Edey’s development is Coach Taylor Jenkins, who has been diligent about nurturing Edey’s talents. Jenkins recognizes the importance of facilitating Edey’s growth and making him a more dynamic player. “He's been pouring in the work. Pre-practice, post-practice, he's coming in at night shooting,” Jenkins praises. The Grizzlies’ strategy hinges on bolstering Edey’s decision-making capabilities, empowering him to become a multifaceted threat. “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 continues, underscoring the emphasis on confidence and poise.
In an open practice session, Edey teamed up with Luke Kennard for a shooting contest. While they were bested by Desmond Bane and Jake LaRavia, the competitive environment illustrates the honing of new skills and the effort being invested into diversifying Edey’s gameplay beyond his traditional center role.
The Road Ahead
The Grizzlies' upcoming preseason game against the Dallas Mavericks will offer fans the first glimpse of this new chapter in Edey’s career. It will act as both a proving ground and a platform for Edey to showcase the advances he’s made during the offseason. For the Memphis Grizzlies, crafting young talents into versatile players has long been a component of their game plan—Edey’s journey from a paint dominator to a perimeter influencer could well become a testament to this commitment.
As the anticipation builds, the basketball world is eager to see how one of the league's most promising new players will adapt and thrive. Zach Edey’s story is poised to be one of transformation and growth, charting the course from college powerhouse to NBA stalwart, with the Memphis Grizzlies paving the way. With his massive frame and potential, coupled with a dedicated coach and supportive team environment, Edey is set to make waves in the NBA landscape, redefining expectations and roles traditionally assigned to players of his stature.