(Photo by Chris Gardner/Getty Images)
The Memphis Grizzlies made a controversial decision in the NBA Draft.
Zach Edey was projected to be a mid-lottery pick at best, yet they decided to take him with the No. 9 pick.
Of course, they were in need of a big man, and he figured to be one of the best still on the board, but there were still major questions about his prospects as an NBA player.
Notably, the Purdue star made sure to put those doubts to rest, at least for the time being, with a strong outing in his first Summer League game.
As pointed out by the NBA’s official account, Edey had 15 rebounds, four blocks, 14 points, and the tip-in to force overtime in the Grizzlies’ matchup vs. the Utah Jazz.
Zach Edey posts a double-double and tips in a last second shot to force OT in his first Summer League game with the Grizzlies
14 PTS
15 REB
4 BLK
An impressive start for the 9th pick in the 2024 NBA Draft… pic.twitter.com/vgoumIeeNq
— NBA (@NBA) July 9, 2024
He was a strong presence in the restricted area, disrupting the opposition’s offensive rhythm and making players think twice before driving to the lane.
Of course, his potential as a rim protector has always been more than evident, and his ability to dominate the offensive glass, alter shots, and be a factor above the rim has never been in doubt, either.
Nonetheless, there are legitimate concerns about whether he’s going to be able to be a factor outside of the paint, as he’s not particularly quick when it comes to moving laterally.
The Grizzlies were one of the few teams who could take a chance and gamble a little with their first-round pick, especially in such a weak NBA Draft class.
Now, it’ll be up to him to prove that he wasn’t just a great college player.
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