Grizzlies Rookie Zach Edey: NBA Legend Shares Candid Thoughts
Zach Edey, though not a top-three pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, has captured significant attention this offseason. Playing for the competitive Memphis Grizzlies, Edey’s potential is evident, and an NBA legend has shared candid thoughts about the rookie’s prospects.
Penny Hardaway’s Perspective on Zach Edey
In a recent episode of The Big Podcast with Shaq, Penny Hardaway, a Memphis native and coach of the Memphis Tigers men’s basketball team, weighed in on Edey’s potential. Hardaway emphasized the necessity of the Grizzlies‘ decision to secure a center like Edey, highlighting his skills and mobility.
“I think the Grizzlies had to make a decision on a center because we needed a center,” Hardaway said. “And Zach Edey, come on man. He’s not some bum. Zach Edey can really play. Now on this level of the NBA, it’s going to be fast for guys. They’re going to be pulling him out of the paint and bringing him on the perimeter. But if you watched him, he’s pretty mobile to be that big. He’s not this slow guy that can’t move.”
Adapting to the NBA Game
Hardaway acknowledged the challenges Edey will face, particularly with his transition to perimeter play. The NBA’s pace and style will require Edey to adapt quickly, especially when defending faster players outside the paint.
“I think for the times that they pull him out to the perimeter, he’ll have to go out there and learn how to play,” Hardaway noted. “But anything coming to that basket, man, he’s coming weak side and he’s going to protect the rim. For me, rebounding and protecting the rim, being in that drop coverage, it might hurt them sometimes, maybe not, but at the end of the day, I think he’ll be a bigger force offensively for them. Because you’ve got to account for him on that roll. You’ve got to account for him getting to the basket.”
Impact on the Grizzlies’ Future
Despite an injury-riddled 2024 season, the Memphis Grizzlies remain a team to watch. Hardaway’s insights underscore the belief that Edey could be a pivotal player in the Grizzlies’ quest to become a top-three seed in the Western Conference.
The rookie’s ability to rebound, protect the rim, and learn perimeter defense will be crucial for the Grizzlies. With Edey’s development, Memphis could add a new dimension to their gameplay, enhancing both their defensive and offensive strategies.
As the new NBA season approaches, all eyes will be on Zach Edey to see how he navigates these challenges and leverages his skills to make a significant impact on his team and the league.
