On November 15, Zach Edey made his highly anticipated return against the Cleveland Cavaliers, and it is safe to say he has significantly raised the Grizzlies' level. Despite the team going 1-2 since Edey's return, the team has competed much better and could potentially start winning more games soon. Zach Edey has not just improved himself, but he is also elevating the play of his teammates.
Zach Edey showed promise early as a rookie but did not get increased playing time until Tuomas Iisalo took over. Edey finished the season strong and ended up in the top 5 in the Rookie of the Year race. Unfortunately, Edey ended up reinjuring his left ankle early in the offseason and needed surgery. The Grizzlies went 4-9 in his absence, but Edey can lead a Grizzlies' turnaround.
Edey's impact is already being noticed
It has only been three games since Edey returned, but the numbers already show what the Grizzlies have been missing. Edey has played just 25 minutes per game due to a minutes restriction, but he is averaging 12.3 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 2.6 steals and blocks (stocks) per game. Edey has a true shooting percentage of 65.1% and is getting to the free throw line more than in his rookie year.
With Zach Edey on the floor, the Grizzlies have a 120.3 offensive rating. The Grizzlies currently have an offensive rating of 109.9, which is the 6th lowest in the NBA, but Edey has already proven to be a significant offensive boost. Despite the Grizzlies missing multiple point guards, Edey has already made the offense much better, especially in the halfcourt.
For example, Vince Williams Jr. has significantly benefited from the return of Zach Edey. Williams Jr. has recorded 29 assists in his last three games, including a career-high 15 assists against the Kings. Williams Jr. looks comfortable operating in the pick-and-roll game with Edey. The same should also be expected from Ja Morant and Ty Jerome once they return from injury.
Despite predraft concerns about Edey's ability to defend in space, Edey has more than held his own and has elevated a Grizzlies defense that was struggling. With Edey on the floor, the team has a defensive rating of 103.7. Granted, three games are a small sample size, but the defense has already improved drastically. Edey's defensive playmaking ability was also missed. He is currently creating 2.5 steals per 100 possessions (86th percentile) and 2.5 blocks per 100 possessions (67th percentile).
The Grizzlies ended their losing streak Thursday night against the Sacramento Kings, winning 137-96. There is still much more work to be done as the team sits at 5-11. However, despite injuries and a slow start to the season, Zach Edey is already showing his worth to the Grizzlies. It is early, but the signs point to Zach Edey having a strong sophomore campaign in Memphis.