Grizzlies draft pick receives endorsement from NBA's Defensive Player of the Year.

BREAKING NEWS: Grizzlies Draft Pick Gets Seal of Approval from DPOY

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This summer, the Memphis Grizzlies made a splash by selecting colossal draft pick Zach Edey, catching many by surprise. Since then, Edey has seamlessly blended in with his Grizzlies teammates as they dive into the preseason. During a recent interview, Marcus Smart couldn’t hide his enthusiasm for Edey’s potential and the unique skills he brings to the squad!

Marcus Smart is Thrilled About What Zach Edey Brings to the Team

Former DPOY Raves About Grizzlies’ Towering Draft Pick

Back in July, the Memphis Grizzlies made waves by selecting Purdue center Zach Edey in the first round. Now, as the NBA preseason heats up and the regular season looms just days away, Edey is already turning heads with his impressive skills! Marcus Smart, the 2021-2022 Defensive Player of the Year, is among those who have recognized Edey’s potential, highlighting how his size and basketball IQ will be a game-changer for the Grizzlies this season. Earlier in the summer, stars like Ja Morant, Desmond Bane, and Jaren Jackson Jr. praised Eedy, but Smart’s commendations came recently during a chat with Grant Afseth from Sportskeeda. Exciting times ahead!

“He’s going to be a game-changer for us,” Smart raved about Edey. “He gives us incredible flexibility on defense, allowing me and Jaren to fully unleash our skills. As former Defensive Players of the Year, having that rim protection behind us is invaluable, and being 7’4″ only adds to it! He moves amazingly well, has a sharp basketball IQ, and he’s just going to keep improving!” 

Smart couldn’t hide his excitement about the potential pick-and-roll action between Edey and Morant! “It’s going to be dynamic! Edey’s size and agility combined with Morant’s incredible skill and speed will create so many opportunities. Defenses are going to have a tough time figuring that out!”

Smart’s enthusiasm is infectious! “Exactly! With Edey’s presence in the paint, it’s like giving Ja a high-speed lane to drive through. Just picture him weaving through defenses with all that space—total chaos for the opponents! It’s going to elevate everyone’s game.”

Edey Declares for the Draft!

Before entering the NBA Draft, Zach Edey showcased his remarkable size and strength during the NCAA Tournament, making a significant impact all the way to the championship game. Although the Boilermakers ultimately lost to the UConn Huskies, Edey’s abilities shone brightly throughout the season. Still, some concerns lingered about his footwork, speed, and overall ability to keep up with the fast-paced NBA, leading many to wonder how he’d fit in at the next level. But the Memphis Grizzlies were undeterred, selecting him with the 9th pick in the first round!

Edey’s draft position was a bit of a surprise, yet Memphis recognized their need for a dominant big man after trading Steven Adams to Houston. They were eager to tap into Edey’s impressive shot-making ability, knack for drawing fouls, and rim protection. With Edey in the lineup, Jaren Jackson Jr. will have more freedom to roam defensively and could see his offensive numbers rise this season. After all, Jackson loves to spot up from beyond the arc, even for a big guy!

Improving Step by Step

Smart’s comments about Edey’s skills only amplify the buzz that Morant sparked earlier this summer! The Grizzlies are clearly excited about what Edey can bring to the table. While there may be some questions about how quickly he can transition his dominant college game to the NBA, one thing is for sure: the chemistry between him and Morant, especially in pick-and-roll situations, has the potential to be explosive! As Smart noted, it’s going to be not only a game-changer but incredibly entertaining for fans to watch!

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