The Memphis Grizzlies enter the 2024-25 season looking to prove they are one of the best teams in the Western Conference. There are plenty of doubts after a 27-win campaign ruined by injuries. Memphis won 50-plus the previous two years, and Desmond Bane believes they can get back there.
It will take better health and improvements from young talents. Memphis is just under the luxury tax and clearly not planning on paying this season. The Grizzlies need their young talent to step up and fill roles around their stars.
They are clearly building around Morant, Bane, and Jaren Jackson Jr., but Memphis must focus on developing talent to assist them. They have six players under 25 years old on their roster. Those talents help limit the team’s spending and give the Grizzlies upside. Here is a look at which players should be priorities moving forward.
Develop: Zach Edey
Memphis selected him with the ninth overall pick in the 2024 draft. Edey played four years at Purdue and twice won college player of the year. The 7’4 big man was dominant, but can he translate it to the NBA?
The Grizzlies need a starter next to Jaren Jackson Jr. in the frontcourt. Steven Adams was traded, and Memphis hopes Edey can fill that role. The 22-year-old must clean the glass and set screens. There are questions about his defense, but the rookie put up numbers in college. The franchise hopes he can do the same in the NBA.
The Memphis Grizzlies believe in Edey and should be focused on helping him reach his ceiling. He could be just what the franchise needs. It is on Memphis to help him blossom into an impactful starting center.
Developing Zach Edey is a no-brainer, but he is not the only young talent the Grizzlies need to fill a crucial role.