Zach Edey: The Grizzlies' Game-Changer for 2024-25

The Memphis Grizzlies have high hopes for a rebound season after a brutal 2023-24 campaign. Much of the excitement revolves around rookie Zach Edey, who was chosen ninth overall and is already considered a potential key player for the team. The 7-foot-4 center out of Purdue comes into the NBA with an impressive resume, including two National Player of the Year awards, and his skill set is poised to fill significant gaps in the Grizzlies' lineup.

Edey is ready for the NBA

At 22 years old, Edey is more polished than your average rookie. His four-year college career at Purdue saw him average 18.2 points and 12.2 rebounds per game, establishing him as an elite rebounder and rim protector. He can contribute immediately with the Grizzlies, particularly in areas that need addressing, such as rebounding and rim defense. Edey's sheer size and defensive acumen should allow him to hold his own in the NBA, helping alleviate some of the Grizzlies' weaknesses from last season.

According to Robert Zschoche from GiveMeSport , "Edey won't be scared of any moment during his transition to the pros... and Memphis needs to know if he is ready to take on a huge role for a team with championship expectations."

Edey's skill set covers his weaknesses

Big men often get labeled as slow-footed and limited, but Edey has demonstrated considerable skill in scoring out of the post. His jump hook and footwork are impressive, and he can serve as an excellent pick-and-roll partner for Ja Morant. Additionally, he's been working on his outside shooting, which could be an added dimension to his game in the NBA.

However, Zschoche notes that "Edey will surely be a liability in switches due to his slow feet," but Memphis is uniquely equipped to handle this. With Jaren Jackson Jr. as a versatile defender, Edey's shortcomings can be masked while his strengths—rim protection and rebounding—shine through.

Why Edey at center is perfect for Memphis' lineup

Edey's presence allows Jackson Jr. to move to his more natural position as a power forward, freeing him from the challenges of playing center. This shift will bolster the Grizzlies' defense and offense, with Jackson Jr. able to roam as a help defender and focus on perimeter-oriented tasks. Pairing Edey with Jaren Jackson Jr. and Marcus Smart creates a potential defensive powerhouse for Memphis.

As Zschoche concludes, "A Smart/Jackson/Edey combination might just form the best defense in basketball." If everything goes according to plan, Zach Edey could be the missing piece that takes the Memphis Grizzlies back to the top of the Western Conference.

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