It's an exchange that did not go unnoticed at the end of the game lost against Houston last Saturday. Called out, while Memphis could still pick up the score, it's a Zach Edey frustrated that Taylor Jenkins had intercepted near the scorer’s table to reassure his young “rookie”.
A conversation which will remain secret between the coach and Edey. “I’m just trying to help this kid grow.” Jenkins had launched at a press conference. Same policy with the pivot, known to be introverted and not very talkative. “I don't really like talking to people about my conversations. I prefer to keep this between me and the person I spoke to”.
Already responsibilities
The conversations can remain secret, but the young pivot's NBA training is very public. For his first year in the NBA, Edey sees a lot of responsibility on his shoulders. Of the first 10 choices in the 2024 Draft, eight are replacements, and the former Purdue player is propelled into the major five.
With the heavy task of helping the Grizzlies find color and the role of a “contender”, Edey encounters difficulties in positioning himself and influencing the game of Memphis. With 7.8 points and 5 rebounds, but an average of 3.8 fouls per game and a sad 25% on free throws, the learning curve is currently tough for the rookie. He can nevertheless count on his trainer to help him visualize his new role. “He is making progress. He must find more regularity. We talked about his new role, not only from an offensive point of view, but also defensively”.
The Grizllies want to play faster
Currently, Memphis ranks 4th in terms of pace. Ja Morant and his friends want to play (much) faster this season and this desire contrasts with the habits of the new pivot. Central element at Purdue in a slower game focused around him, Zach Edey must from the start of the season adjust to the liveliness of Morant and the rest of the team. Contrast well perceived by the rookie. “I take things game by game, and try to improve one game at a time”.
In Memphis, Edey is one of the players who touches the fewest balls in attack. To try to correct this, video sessions were set up with the Morant who wants to make him “an adult in painting”. Mobile on his supports despite his size and imposing physique, Memphis would like to see his pivot run more often to create spaces, finish near the circle or find “extra passes”. “I insist on the fact that he dominates the racket. That we must put him in good positions and reward him” says Jenkins.
Edey can also count on the other players on the “frontcourt” with whom he shares healthy competition, but also prolific mutual assistance. Shooting sessions are regularly organized with Santi Aldama, Jay Huff and Brandon Clarke. A growing brotherhood on and off the court. “They’re good guys. They help me, talk to me and encourage me”.
Unsure following calf pain, Edey may have to wait to continue to get his bearings, while the Grizzlies host the Nets back-to-back.
