A New Prospect with Towering Potential: Zach Edey Joins the Grizzlies
In the world of basketball where height and presence often determine potential, Zach Edey is certainly a towering figure poised to make his mark with the Memphis Grizzlies. Standing at an imposing 7-foot-4 and weighing 300 pounds, Edey's physical attributes alone capture attention, but it's his evolution as a player that has Memphis buzzing with excitement.
Building a New Playstyle
Edey's journey in the sport has predominantly seen him play in the paint, where his size offers a commanding advantage, carving space and protecting his turf with determination. "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 asserts, outlining his natural affinity to dominate under the basket.
However, with the Grizzlies' coaching team eager to expand his capabilities, the goal is to transition Edey from a purely center role to one that encompasses perimeter play as well. Coach Taylor Jenkins is at the helm of this transformation, emphasizing Zach's shooting abilities and decision-making on the court. "He's been pouring in the work. Pre-practice, post-practice, he's coming in at night shooting," Jenkins commends, illustrating Edey's commitment to honing skills beyond the paint.
Drawing Comparisons and Setting Expectations
Edey is often compared to Jonas Valančiūnas, a former Memphis center known for his interior dominance, and in playing style, to Brook Lopez thanks to his potential to stretch the floor. Yet, Edey views his role uniquely. "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," remarks Edey, hinting at his multifaceted aspirations and the confidence the team places in him.
Despite attempting a mere two 3-pointers during his four-year college career, Edey reflects a burgeoning confidence from outside the arc. "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 shares. It's a testament to his willingness to evolve and embrace new challenges as the Grizzlies attempt to shape him into a cross-category player.
The Journey Forward
This preseason marks a pivotal moment for Edey, as he is set to debut against the Dallas Mavericks. His development and adaptation to a more comprehensive role will be scrutinized, but the focus remains on easing his transition. Coach Jenkins notes, "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." This understanding underscores the delicate balancing act of nurturing a potential star while giving him the freedom to explore his capabilities.
Edey’s involvement in a recent shooting contest at an open practice illustrates this transition towards a more versatile playing style. Partnering with sharpshooter Luke Kennard, Edey ultimately fell short against Desmond Bane and Jake LaRavia. Yet, such experiences are integral to his development, providing practical insight into adjusting his skill set.
As the Grizzlies forge a path with Edey at the helm, there is a palpable optimism. His towering presence coupled with the determination to redefine his gameplay could make him an indispensable asset to the team's future aspirations. It's not just about size and skill, but a holistic approach to developing a more complete player. For Zach Edey, the journey may just be beginning, but the trajectory suggests high-flying potential.