Despite the Memphis Grizzlies' challenging season marked by injuries and coaching changes, rookie center Zach Edey left a lasting impression on the NBA. The 23-year-old former Purdue standout navigated through an inconsistent year with resilience, contributing significantly to the team's regular-season success of 48 wins. Although the Grizzlies were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs by the Oklahoma City Thunder, Edey’s performance was acknowledged when he earned a place on the NBA's 2024-25 Kia All-Rookie First Team. His journey from college star to professional standout highlights his adaptability and potential for future growth.
Edey’s debut season in the NBA was not without its hurdles. The Grizzlies faced numerous setbacks, including the firing of head coach Taylor Jenkins late in the season, which led to Tuomas Iisalo stepping in as interim coach. Despite these challenges, Edey carved out a consistent role for himself, playing in 66 games and showcasing his physical prowess inside the paint. His college reputation as a dominant interior player translated well to the professional level, where he averaged 9.2 points and 8.3 rebounds per game while shooting efficiently at 58% from the field. Remarkably, Edey also demonstrated versatility by hitting 34.6% of his three-point attempts, a rare skill for a player of his stature.
In the playoffs, Edey encountered tougher competition but remained a reliable presence on the boards, averaging 7.8 rebounds per game against the Thunder. While his scoring output dipped slightly during the series, his contributions were vital to the team's efforts. Edey’s inclusion on the All-Rookie First Team alongside teammate Jaylen Wells underscores the promise of the Grizzlies’ young core. Other notable rookies joining them include San Antonio Spurs’ Stephon Castle, who received unanimous support, and Washington Wizards’ Alex Sarr, who narrowly secured the final spot over Kel’el Ware of the Miami Heat.
Edey’s contract with the Grizzlies extends for four years, valued at $26.2 million, ensuring his continued development within the organization. With an annual salary set to increase incrementally, reaching $8 million by the 2027-28 season, Edey is positioned for long-term growth. As he approaches restricted free agency in 2028, the early signs point toward a promising career ahead, suggesting that this rookie campaign may merely be the beginning of greater achievements to come.
The recognition Edey received for his rookie season serves as a testament to his hard work and dedication. With a new head coach in place and a supportive environment surrounding him, Edey has the opportunity to refine his skills further and establish himself as one of the league's premier big men. His ability to combine traditional post play with modern shooting range makes him a unique talent poised to make significant impacts in the years ahead.