Zach Edey shines as Grizzlies overwhelm Kings in stunning 41-point triumph
The Memphis Grizzlies’ emphatic 41-point victory over the Sacramento Kings marked a significant turnaround for a team that had recently found itself in a five-game losing streak. This win was not just a statistic; it felt like a release, a cathartic experience for a squad eager to turn the page on their struggles.
Edey’s Dominance Takes Center Stage
At the heart of this commanding performance was Zach Edey, whose impact on the court was undeniable. Edey, standing tall at 7’4”, has emerged as a crucial asset for Memphis, showcasing the type of weaponry he can wield on a nightly basis. His performance on Thursday night was a testament to his potential.
While Edey may not need to score heavily every game, he must consistently influence the game in various ways. Whether it’s setting solid screens, dominating the boards, or disrupting opponents’ offenses, his presence is essential. Last season, he ranked 21st in the NBA for rebounding percentage at 17.9%, and with his size and skill, there’s no reason he can’t aim for a top-five finish in that category moving forward.
A Coach’s Praise for Edey’s Role
Coach Tuomas Lisalo expressed satisfaction with Edey’s contributions, particularly in establishing a formidable inside defense during the past three games, despite the team’s mixed results. Edey was flawless in his shooting on Thursday, converting all seven of his field goal attempts before halftime. His ability to score on screen rolls highlighted his massive frame as a target, and he showcased his versatility with baskets from both the dunker spot and beyond the arc.
Edey’s chemistry with Vince Williams Jr. was particularly noteworthy, as Williams assisted four of Edey’s shots, establishing himself as the young center’s primary playmaker this season. Edey logged nearly 12 minutes in the second half, allowing his teammates to join in on the scoring spree.
Edey’s Promising Early Season Metrics
In just three games this season, Edey is averaging 12.3 points per game, placing him seventh among second-year players. His effective field goal percentage of 60.4% eclipses that of several scorers ahead of him in the rankings. However, the next step in his development lies in enhancing his playmaking abilities. As defenses begin to collapse around him, he must learn to quickly identify opportunities to facilitate for his teammates, transforming from a mere rim roller into a pivotal playmaker.
Last season, Edey averaged just 1.8 post-ups, taking a mere 0.8 shots per game in those scenarios. This year, he’s slightly increased his post-up attempts to 2.7 per game, although he still has room to grow in both scoring and assisting in those situations.
Navigating Early Challenges
The season has been a journey filled with ups and downs for the Grizzlies, with nearly 20% of the season already behind them. With Edey’s ankle now fully recovered, the hope is that he can continue to assert himself and help shift the momentum in Memphis’s favor. As the Grizzlies navigate their challenges, Edey’s emergence provides a glimmer of hope for a franchise seeking to rediscover its winning formula, especially in the absence of star player Ja Morant.
The path ahead may be fraught with obstacles, but if Edey can harness his potential and continue to grow, the Grizzlies may just have the foundation for a promising season.
