The Memphis Grizzlies’ New Giant: How Zach Edey is Making Waves in the NBA Preseason

As the 2023 NBA preseason unfolds, one player who has been making headlines is the towering 7’4” center, Zach Edey. Best known for his dominance at Purdue University, where he was a two-time National Player of the Year, Edey has transitioned seamlessly into the NBA. Although he has only played three preseason games, his latest performance against the Chicago Bulls has everyone buzzing. In that game, Edey finished with 15 points, eight rebounds (five offensive), four assists, and three blocks in just 22 minutes of play, leading the Grizzlies to victory. But it wasn’t just the numbers that impressed; it was how Edey showcased his evolving skill set and proved he can hold his own at the professional level.

Dominating the Bulls

In the Grizzlies’ preseason win against the Bulls, Edey’s ability to outplay established NBA veterans like Nikola Vucevic was striking. Edey’s massive frame allows him to control the paint with ease, but what’s even more exciting is his burgeoning versatility. For example, he made a smooth hook shot over Vucevic, a move that, if developed further, could become nearly unstoppable due to his height and reach. Beyond that, his aggressive offensive rebounding and ability to protect the rim make him a huge asset for the Grizzlies.

Edey’s preseason stats highlight just how impactful he can be on both ends of the court. His 15-point performance against Chicago wasn’t a fluke but the result of tireless work on his game, including expanding his offensive toolkit to fit today’s NBA. While known primarily for his inside presence, Edey is also beginning to showcase other skills that may make him an even bigger threat.

A Stretch Big in the Making?

One of the more exciting developments in Edey’s game is the emergence of a three-point shot. While he never had to rely on it during his college years at Purdue, Edey has begun shooting from beyond the arc during the preseason. In fact, in one of his earlier preseason games, Edey confidently took multiple three-pointers. Though still in its infancy, the shot looked smooth and effective, a promising sign that he could develop into a stretch big. The ability to shoot from distance adds a new dimension to his game, forcing opposing defenses to stretch further out and opening up the floor for his teammates to drive to the rim.

NBA writer Kevin O’Connor noted that a reliable jumper could elevate Edey’s flexibility and frontcourt depth for the Grizzlies. If Edey can continue to develop his three-point shot, it would allow Memphis to play a five-out offense, while still having Edey as a defensive anchor inside. Even if his shooting doesn’t fully materialize right away, O’Connor emphasized that Edey’s size and interior play are already enough to cause major problems for opponents. Whether setting screens for star guard Ja Morant or punishing smaller defenders in the paint, Edey has shown he can be an instant mismatch on offense.

Building Chemistry with Ja Morant

Speaking of Ja Morant, the potential for Edey and Morant to form a lethal pick-and-roll duo is tantalizing. In their limited preseason action together, Morant and Edey have shown flashes of chemistry that will be difficult to defend. Edey’s massive screens create lanes for Morant to either attack the rim or kick it out to shooters like Desmond Bane or Luke Kennard. On the other end, Edey’s ability to clean up misses on the offensive glass will be invaluable. As the two continue to play more minutes together, the pick-and-roll possibilities are endless.

Edey himself mentioned in an interview that the chemistry with Morant is still a work in progress, but that they are committed to developing it both on and off the court. “It’s really important, and we’re still working on it,” Edey said. “It’s not done by any means, but we’re continuing to develop it.” The work ethic and determination that Edey has shown both during the offseason and throughout preseason only strengthen the case for his eventual success.

The Perfect Partner for Jaren Jackson Jr.

While the Morant-Edey pick-and-roll could be a powerful offensive tool, Edey’s potential pairing with Jaren Jackson Jr. on defense is perhaps even more exciting. Jackson, the reigning NBA Defensive Player of the Year, is known for his shot-blocking prowess, and his ability to roam defensively could be perfectly complemented by Edey’s ability to protect the rim. With Edey anchoring the paint, Jackson can focus on his trademark help defense, blocking shots and disrupting passing lanes. Together, they could form one of the most intimidating frontcourt duos in the NBA.

Zach’s presence could also address one of Jackson’s few weaknesses: rebounding. Despite Jackson’s dominance as a shot-blocker, rebounding has never been his strong suit. That’s where Edey comes in. His size and instincts on the glass will help the Grizzlies control the boards, and his passing ability will enable him to find open shooters or reset the offense after securing offensive rebounds.

The Future of the Grizzlies with Zach Edey

As the preseason progresses and we inch closer to the start of the regular season, it’s becoming clear that Zach Edey will be a key part of the Grizzlies’ rotation. Even though he’s primarily been playing with bench players during preseason, Edey’s impact has been undeniable. Once Morant and Jackson return to full health, the Grizzlies’ potential will skyrocket. Head coach Taylor Jenkins will have a multitude of options when it comes to utilizing Edey’s unique skill set.

It’s also worth noting that Edey’s path to NBA success seems increasingly distinct from other towering big men of the past, such as Boban Marjanovic or George Muresan. While comparisons were made during the draft, Edey’s mobility, athleticism, and rapidly improving skill set separate him from those giants. At just 21 years old, Edey has a work ethic and commitment to improvement that suggests his ceiling is much higher.

Conclusion

Zach Edey’s preseason performances have put the NBA on notice. His ability to dominate inside, combined with his expanding range and potential as a stretch big, make him a valuable asset for the Memphis Grizzlies. With Ja Morant, Jaren Jackson Jr., and the rest of the Grizzlies roster, Edey is poised to play a crucial role in their success this season. As chemistry builds and his skills continue to develop, the Grizzlies’ towering new addition could be one of the key reasons Memphis takes a significant step forward in the 2023-2024 season.

If his preseason performances are any indication, Edey isn’t just a prospect with potential—he’s a force to be reckoned with right now.