Memphis rookie center Zach Edey has jump-started the Grizzlies’ season since making his debut in mid-November. Following a 4-11 opening, Memphis has captured five of its last six contests, a stretch head coach Tuomas Iisalo credited largely to the 7’3” Canadian’s two-way play.
Edey delivered a career night Sunday in Sacramento, posting 32 points, 17 rebounds and five blocks in 29 minutes on 16-of-20 shooting. The Grizzlies were plus-25 with the 23-year-old on the floor during the eight-point victory. “Great job overall by him and the whole team for realizing that’s where the advantage is,” Iisalo said.
Over the club’s last three wins, Edey is averaging 19.3 points, 17.0 boards and 3.3 rejections while hitting 71.8 percent of his attempts in 32.0 minutes per game. “I’ve been settling in, feeling like I’m back at Purdue a little bit—just comfortable,” Edey remarked after being named a finalist for Western Conference Player of the Week.
Morant engaged despite trade chatter
Ja Morant, the subject of ongoing buy-low trade inquiries after a sluggish start, showed visible enthusiasm on the bench during Sunday’s win, The Athletic reported. The Kings and Timberwolves are among teams monitoring his situation, but Iisalo noted Morant’s presence has been “a huge advantage,” citing lively in-game communication and leadership alongside Jaren Jackson Jr.
Spurs rookies progressing
San Antonio will again be without Victor Wembanyama (left calf strain) and Stephon Castle (left hip flexor strain) Tuesday against Memphis. Both have begun on-court work, yet neither will travel to Orlando for Wednesday’s back-to-back. The team has not ruled out the possibility they join the four-game road trip that concludes next Wednesday, though playing during that span remains uncertain.
Williamson seeks growth as a leader
Two days before the Pelicans announced he would miss extended time with a strained adductor, forward Zion Williamson said he felt healthier than he had since his prep and college days. “I walk in the gym, and I feel good,” the former No. 1 pick said Sunday. Interim coach James Borrego praised Williamson’s talent but emphasized continued development in leadership, noting regular conversations with the 25-year-old on that front.
Source: Hoops Rumors
