Edey is embracing the early challenges and wants to set the tone for a strong rookie season

The Memphis Grizzlies improved to 3-1 in the 2024 NBA preseason after defeating the Indiana Pacers 120-116 on Monday night.

The Grizzlies squeezed out a win despite surrendering 38 points in the fourth quarter and seeing just four players secure double-figures in scoring on the night.

There wasn’t a player who made more headlines than towering rookie center Zach Edey around the association last night. The former Purdue big man sustained momentum from his team’s thrilling victory 48 hours earlier against the Chicago Bulls.

Having matched up against several star-quality big men in just the first few preseason games of his career, the 22-year-old is fast-tracking to make an early campaign for the Rookie of the Year award once the regular season tips off.

A strong early test for No. 14

In just four preseason games, Edey has stood out across notable NBA big men, like Dallas Mavericks rising star Dereck Lively II, Bulls star Nikola Vucevic, and Indiana’s elite rim-protecting big man Myles Turner.

So far, so good for the No. 9 overall pick. Clashing with some of the league’s star centers has helped facilitate a strong early test for the Grizzlies rookie. Perhaps it’ll be the biggest reason why he begins the regular season outputting jaw-dropping stat lines.

“Yeah, for sure. Just being able to go against them and see what it looks like,” Zach said of his preseason competition following Monday’s win . “You see it on TV. And [when] you see it in person, [it] is a little different. Just getting that litmus test and seeing where you are at.”

No. 14 dazzled against the Pacers, scoring 23 points, pulling down nine rebounds, and showcasing an assortment of moves that are breathtaking for a man his size. The rising star looks like a seasoned pro from pushing methodical back-downs to feathery hook shots.

With just close to five minutes gone by in the second half, Edey secured a rebound over three white jerseys off a missed free throw. Surrounded by multiple Pacers, he patiently set his feet to get a clean look at the basket and effortlessly kissed the ball off the backboard for two points, looking like a man amongst boys. It appeared almost unfair. Ja Morant’s reaction said it all when he turned to his bench and shared a huge smile.

Memphis will wrap up its preseason slate on October 18 against the Miami Heat, giving Edey and Co. one more stab at a strong outing before the games begin to count. With large expectations on his shoulders this season, expect the Purdue product to play with the same intensity and effort as he aims to start his rookie campaign on a powerful note.

Related: Ja Morant Had One Demand After Zach Edey Dunked on Him