Zach Lowe believes Zach Edey's health could determine whether the Memphis Grizzlies outperform expectations and contend for a play-in spot.
The Memphis Grizzlies are flying under the radar for the 2026-27 season with low expectations, but NBA reporter Zach Lowe believes center Zach Edey is the team's X-factor.
Memphis will enter the season with a new core including rookie forward Cameron Boozer, guard/forward Cedric Coward, and Edey. During the offseason, the franchise moved on from guard Ja Morant, who was the last player from the 2021-2023 roster that captured the No. 2 seed in the West for two consecutive seasons.
Edey has played 77 games with the franchise since being drafted in 2024. However, Lowe believes that this team can make the play-in if Edey is healthy.
"Plus-18 per 100 possessions. Some of that is that teams shot horribly from three. But Edey changed their team," said Lowe.
Zach Edey Could Be Memphis' X-Factor
Although the sample size for Edey is small, the team was 13-3 when he was in the lineup during the 2024-25 season. Last season, the team was 25-57 and was 7-4 when he was in the lineup.
When the 7-foot-3 center was in the lineup last season, the team averaged 5.1 blocks per game; when he wasn't, it dropped to 4.7. His presence around the rim helps the team defend, dominate the glass, and limit the team's fouling.
Last season, when Edey was in the lineup, the team averaged 50.2 rebounds per game, and when he was not in the lineup, the average dropped to 40.9.
The Purdue product provides the Grizzlies with size and length, post scoring, rebounding, and a strong screen target. He does struggle with lateral quickness on the perimeter, a lack of shooting, and an inability to run on the break consistently.
Needless to say, Edey makes the team better when he is on the floor, and he is only entering his third season.
Cameron Boozer Gives Grizzlies Another Frontcourt Weapon
Boozer, who was drafted No. 3 overall in this year's NBA Draft, will help Edey in the frontcourt. Despite Edey's three-point percentage last season, he did shoot 34.6% in his rookie season.
Boozer will help this team by taking the double teams away from his frontcourt mates. His ability to handle the ball and pass will give his teammates the opportunity to space the floor.
Guard Ty Jerome, who could be a trade asset later down the road, will help this team space the floor. Last season, Jerome missed games due to injury.
Guard Cedric Coward and forward Jerami Grant will help space the floor and will allow the frontcourt to roam and reset in the post if needed.
Grant brings a veteran presence, and the team saw improvement from forward Olivier-Maxence Prosper, who had a strong Summer League outing.
The projected lineup for the Grizzlies is Jerome, Coward, Grant, Boozer, and Edey.
