7-Foot-4 Prospect Zach Edey: Poised to Redefine the Center Role for Memphis Grizzlies
In the bustling world of professional basketball, size has always been a coveted asset. Yet, for Zach Edey, standing at an imposing 7-foot-4 and weighing 300 pounds, his entry into the NBA with the Memphis Grizzlies is about much more than his physical dimensions. The journey ahead promises to be transformative, not just for Edey individually, but potentially for the team dynamics as well.
Edey's reputation as a formidable presence in the paint precedes him. During his college career, he was known as a player who could carve out space and protect his area effectively. Reflecting on his approach, Edey himself emphatically states, "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."
Yet, the Grizzlies aim to challenge and expand his skill set, encouraging him to transition from a traditional center role to one that encompasses perimeter capabilities. The vision for Edey is ambitious: to develop him into a versatile player who can adapt to the constantly evolving demands of the modern NBA game.
Under the guidance of Coach Taylor Jenkins, this transformation has already begun unfolding. Jenkins is committed to helping Edey hone his shooting abilities, recognizing the potential for growth beyond the paint. "He's been pouring in the work. Pre-practice, post-practice, he's coming in at night shooting," Jenkins noted, underscoring Edey's dedication to improvement.
Transitioning from a paint enforcer to a player comfortable with the perimeter is no small task. During his four-year college stint, Edey only attempted two 3-pointers; yet, he successfully banked one. It's a nascent aspect of his game that he is keen on developing. "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," Edey maintains, demonstrating both confidence and realism in his abilities.
In comparison to other players, Edey often draws parallels to former Memphis center Jonas Valančiūnas and shares similarities in playing style with Brook Lopez. Such comparisons are not taken lightly, as each player represents a unique blend of size and skill. However, Edey strives to make his mark by embracing a role akin to Milwaukee's Giannis Antetokounmpo. "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 asserts, illuminating his aspirations to be a focal point in the Grizzlies' strategy.
Fans got a glimpse of Edey's work progress during an open practice, where he teamed up with Luke Kennard in a shooting contest. While they ultimately lost to Desmond Bane and Jake LaRavia, these moments are essential in tracking his development. They provide a snapshot of a player gradually broadening his game to match his physical prowess.
The upcoming preseason clash against the Dallas Mavericks will offer Edey another platform to showcase his growth. The Grizzlies and Coach Jenkins are placing faith in his potential, but it's the cultivation of his decision-making and adaptability on the court that they wish to nurture. "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 reassures, fostering an environment where Edey's instinct and skill can flourish.
For Memphis Grizzlies fans, the anticipation lies in witnessing how Edey's transformation shapes his rookie season. As he navigates the leap from a college star to an NBA prospect, the path will be rife with challenges and breakthroughs. For Zach Edey, the future is not just about redefining a role within the team but potentially redefining what's expected of a 7-foot-4 athlete in the fast-paced world of professional basketball.