3 Grizzlies who could be biggest X-Factors during redemption 2024-25 season

October can't come soon enough!
Milwaukee Bucks v Memphis Grizzlies
Milwaukee Bucks v Memphis Grizzlies / Justin Ford/GettyImages
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Zach Edey

The selection of Zach Edey turned many heads and drew severe criticism from media pundits almost instantly, with some going as far as to call the pick "one of the worst" in NBA Draft history.

After a brief stint in this year's Summer League, however, the big man has seemingly put these naysayers to rest, and it's easy to see why.

Picking up right where he left off following his storied four-year stint at Purdue, during the offseason tournament Edey displayed his menacing defensive chops, board gobbling abilities, and overall elite interior presence that led him to two straight AP Player of the Year awards.

Now, with his play, the negative narrative surrounding the 7-foot-4 behemoth and how his game may not translate to the next level has pulled a legitimate 180, as he now finds himself placing as one of the primary frontrunners to win the league's Rookie of the Year award.

Should he find a way to live up to these, now, lofty expectations and have his dominant play transition to the big leagues, many are of the impression that he could serve as a key cog in the team's potential return to the top of the Western Conference while running alongside Ja Morant, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Desmond Bane.

We've already seen what this core can do when accompanied by a large and in charge big manning the five (ex. Steven Adams, Jonas Valanciunas). Perhaps Edey could be the next in line to achieve similar, and hopefully greater levels of success while serving as the franchise pivot.

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