Zach Edey's Transition from Paint Powerhouse to Perimeter Potential
At 7-foot-4 and 300 pounds, Zach Edey is a commanding presence. As a standout Memphis Grizzlies rookie prospect, his towering stature and physical dominance have defined his basketball journey. Yet, while Edey has carved out an identity in the paint, driving through defenses with his sheer size and strength, an evolution in his game may be on the horizon.
The Memphis Grizzlies are exploring new horizons for Edey's talents. Coach Taylor Jenkins is leading the charge in transforming Edey from a traditional center role to someone capable of impacting the game from the perimeter. "He's been pouring in the work," Jenkins noted, praising Edey's rigorous dedication. "Pre-practice, post-practice, he's coming in at night shooting." This alludes to a broader vision, one that sees Edey not just as a massive force under the basket—but as a multifaceted player capable of stretching the floor.
Transitioning Roles and Expanding Horizons
During his four years in college basketball, Edey attempted only two 3-pointers, one of which was a successful bank shot. Nevertheless, Jenkins is focused on broadening Edey's game. As the coach explained, "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 nurturing approach hints at the potential for Edey to redefine what a 7-foot-4 frame can achieve beyond the standard center's role.
Edey himself embraces the challenge. Known for his confidence, he stated, "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." His belief in his shooting skills underscores his willingness to adapt and evolve—a necessary trait in today's dynamic NBA landscape.
An Eye on New Comparisons
As Edey works on this transformation, he's drawing comparisons nearer to veteran big men like Brook Lopez. Lopez, a pivotal piece in the Milwaukee Bucks' line-up, has effectively expanded his game to include perimeter shooting, balancing his role with an equally dominant star in Giannis Antetokounmpo. Edey identifies with this balance and the adaptation required. "Yeah, like, Lopez has to space the floor because they've got Giannis," Edey mentioned. "On this team, I'm the Giannis, and people space around me." This insight offers a glimpse into his aspirations within the Grizzlies' strategy.
Moreover, such comparisons extend beyond Lopez. Edey draws parallels to Jonas Valančiūnas, a former fixture in the Grizzlies' game plan. Valančiūnas's past tenure with Memphis bolsters Edey's potential to contribute under a familiar system, providing Edey with another model to emulate as he broadens his skill set.
Taking Aims at Practice
Edey's dedication is evident in his approach to developing these new skills. Recently, at an open practice, Edey partnered with Luke Kennard in a shooting contest, an exercise that underscores the focus on extending his shooting range. Although they lost the contest to Desmond Bane and Jake LaRavia, it offered the team valuable insights into Edey's shooting capabilities beyond the paint.
For Edey, moments like these reflect both challenge and opportunity. His transition is a crucial part of the Grizzlies’ preseason preparations, with their first game against the Dallas Mavericks fast approaching. This transition is built on intense preparation and a commitment to personal and team development.
The Road Ahead
Edey acknowledges his origins in the paint, stating, "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, his readiness to expand his range and his role demonstrates a willingness to mirror the modern game's demands.
Ultimately, Zach Edey's journey with the Grizzlies is one of promise and persistence. As he continues to cultivate his skills beyond traditional big-man territory, both the team's strategy and his individual growth are likely to benefit. Whether he becomes a centerpiece or a versatile asset in Memphis, Edey's commitment to improving his shooting ability marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in his budding career.