Edey’s Transition: From College Paint to NBA Perimeter
As the Memphis Grizzlies gear up for their preseason opener against the Dallas Mavericks, rookie prospect Zach Edey stands tall—both literally and figuratively—at the center of their developmental plans. Standing at 7-foot-4 and weighing 300 pounds, Edey is not just recognized for his stature but his potential to evolve in areas beyond where his physicality naturally takes him: the paint.
Throughout his four-year college basketball career, Edey was lauded for his commanding presence in the paint, which he used to carve out space and assert dominance. “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 told reporters, reinforcing the identity he forged in college. However, the Grizzlies see potential for more.
A Versatile Future
With the goal of expanding his range, the Memphis Grizzlies are determined to transition Edey from a primarily center role to one where he can effectively operate on the perimeter. This ambition isn't about dismantling his strengths but broadening his gameplay, perhaps adding a modern twist to his traditional big-man role. Coach Taylor Jenkins is at the helm of this growth initiative, focusing on enhancing Edey’s shooting abilities. “He's been pouring in the work. Pre-practice, post-practice, he's coming in at night shooting,” Jenkins noted, highlighting Edey’s dedication.
The strategic foresight to develop Edey’s perimeter skills underscores an understanding that the modern NBA center is not solely confined to the paint. Drawing comparisons to players like Jonas Valančiūnas, a former Memphis center, and Brook Lopez in playing style, Edey's journey could redefine his contributions on the court. "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 quipped, underscoring his ambition to become a focal point around which his teammates revolve.
Shooting for Success
Edey’s transition is a work in progress, as evidenced by his collegiate record where he attempted only two 3-pointers, with one successfully banked. Yet, his confidence in his shooting abilities remains unwavering. “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 asserted, laying the groundwork for what he hopes will be a pivotal transformation.
Recently, during an open practice, Edey participated in a shooting contest with teammate Luke Kennard. Despite their loss to Desmond Bane and Jake LaRavia, the experience echoed Coach Jenkins’ philosophy of giving Edey the freedom to explore and embrace his capabilities. “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 expressed. This approach signifies a cultural and tactical shift within the team's strategy—a willingness to simultaneously foster adaptability and specialization in its players.
Preparing for the Season
As the Grizzlies prepare for the upcoming season, all eyes will undoubtedly be on Edey. His potential development from a dominating inside force to a versatile all-round player may serve as a microcosm for the evolving roles within professional basketball. The Springhill, Nova Scotia native's journey is not only about adapting to the NBA’s demands but also about setting new benchmarks for himself and others who might follow. Whether Edey will redefine his game this season remains to be seen, but his readiness to embrace change is a promising sign of growth.
The Memphis Grizzlies, equipped with a dynamic roster and vision, are supporting Zach Edey’s evolution with patience, practice, and an open invitation to redefine what a big man can achieve in today’s game. As he builds upon his notable college career, Edey’s story has just begun, and the basketball world eagerly anticipates the chapters that will follow.