Cedric Coward has already proven that the Grizzlies made the right choice to trade up and select him 11th overall last summer. Coward is currently averaging 13.4 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 2.8 assists in 26.1 minutes per game as a rookie. It is clear he possesses serious potential, but the Grizzlies must get one key thing right with his development the rest of the season.
The Grizzlies must add more high-end talent to the roster; however, Cedric Coward and Zach Edey figure to be key pieces of a possible future without Ja Morant. Coward has shown the signs of becoming a high-impact three-level scorer and is a very good rebounder for his position. He also possesses the physical tools needed to become an even more consistent defender as his career progresses.
However, the Grizzlies must prioritize giving him more on-ball reps for the rest of this season to take his game to the next level.
Coward's development needs to be a top priority
It is clear that the Grizzlies are trying to improve their draft position following the blockbuster Jaren Jackson Jr. trade at the deadline. Whether it is through injury reports, rotations, or ten-day signings, the Grizzlies have made it their intention not to win games. However, that does not mean that Cedric Coward's development should be valued any less.
Cedric Coward injured his knee against the Warriors on February 9, which prevented him from competing in the Rising Stars Challenge. While it was initially ruled a hyperextension, he was eventually diagnosed with a right knee posterior capsule sprain that caused him to miss seven games. Since then, Coward has played three games and scored in double figures each time.
Coward has not been playing back-to-back games as the Grizzlies continue to manage his injury. While the Grizzlies have been smart to not take unnecessary risks with Coward, he must get more on-ball work the rest of the season.
Playing more on-ball can really help Coward level up
A similar Grizzlies development example that can be pointed to is Desmond Bane. Bane had a very solid rookie season, but it was clear he had to improve as an on-ball creator and playmaker, similar to Coward. Even though Summer League on-ball reps were the key development period that helped Bane, the Grizzlies should get a head start on giving Coward more opportunities with the ball.
Cedric Coward is still on a minute restriction but has been able to still get to the free throw line and find ways to score without the ball always in his hands. However, for the rest of the season, the Grizzlies must prioritize letting Coward be more of an on-ball creator. To tighten his handle, the best way for Coward to grow in that area is by simply getting more in-game development opportunities.
It is clear that the Grizzlies struck gold with the Cedric Coward pick. Coward has shown significant upside on both sides of the ball and can end up being a key piece in Memphis for years. However, the Grizzlies must prioritize his development despite trying to improve their draft position.
More on-ball reps the rest of the season and in this year's upcoming Summer League could really lead to Cedric Coward's game evolving even further.