Here’s a bold statement: Zach Edey might just be the missing piece the Memphis Grizzlies need to dominate the NBA. But here’s where it gets controversial—in an era obsessed with speed, spacing, and defensive versatility, can a 7’4” throwback center like Edey truly thrive? Let’s dive in.
At Purdue, Edey earned nicknames like “The Big Maple” and “Shaq Edey” for his towering presence and dominance. Yet, when the Grizzlies drafted him, the question wasn’t about his college success—it was about whether his old-school skillset could translate to the modern NBA. And this is the part most people miss: early data suggests not only can he adapt, but he’s already making a massive difference.
Despite a sophomore season cut short by injuries (just 10 full games so far), Edey has shown remarkable growth. His per-game averages have jumped from 9 points and 8 rebounds to nearly 15 points and 12 rebounds, all while playing more minutes. His blocked shots have also surged to over 2 per game. But it’s not just about stats—his efficiency has skyrocketed. Last year, he underperformed expectations in shooting; this year, he’s exceeding them, proving he’s more than just a big body.
Here’s the kicker: Edey’s defensive impact is even more impressive. Opponents are shooting just 34% against him this season, placing him in the 84th percentile of all players—a huge leap from last year’s 42%. He’s also blocking shots at an elite rate while committing fewer fouls. Compare that to Memphis’ other centers, and it’s clear: Edey is in a league of his own.
Take Jaren Jackson Jr., Jock Landale, and Santi Aldama, for example. While Jackson is a solid defender, Edey outshines him as a post defender and shot blocker. Landale and Aldama? They don’t come close in defensive metrics. Offensively, Edey’s Points Per Chance (PPC) ranks in the 80th percentile, compared to Jackson’s below-average 37th percentile. The numbers don’t lie—Edey is Memphis’ best center.
But here’s the real question: Does Edey’s presence actually lead to wins? The data says yes. With Edey on the court, the Grizzlies’ defensive rating is a staggering 99.3—better than the league-leading Thunder. Without him? It plummets to 119.1, ranking 26th. That’s a 22.1-point swing in net efficiency per 100 possessions. Even with just 10 games of data, Memphis is 7-3 when Edey plays and 11-20 without him. The impact is undeniable.
Now, for the controversial part: Some argue Edey’s success is unsustainable in today’s NBA. But if Memphis can build around his strengths—slowing the pace, dominating the paint, and controlling the glass—he could redefine what a modern center looks like. What do you think? Is Edey the future of the Grizzlies, or just a temporary solution in a fast-paced league? Let’s debate in the comments!
