Was this a pick, or maybe…
In a move that left many basketball analysts and fans stunned, the Memphis Grizzlies selected Purdue standout Zach Edey with the ninth overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. This selection has been met with significant criticism and skepticism regarding Edey’s fit within the modern NBA landscape.
Why Purdue center Zach Edey? Grizzlies GM explains first-round NBA draft choice https://t.co/Ybk0VkyVJl
— IndyStarSports (@IndyStarSports) June 27, 2024
Zach Edey, a 7-foot-4 center known for his traditional back-to-the-basket style of play, has been a dominant force in college basketball. His impressive performance at Purdue, leading the team to a national championship game, showcased his potential. However, his playstyle, which emphasizes post-up touches and a presence in the paint, contrasts sharply with the NBA’s current preference for a fast-paced, 3-point-centric game.
Krysten Peek, a respected basketball analyst, did not mince words about her feelings toward the Grizzlies’ decision. She labeled the pick as one of the worst in draft history, pointing out that Edey’s lack of mobility and shooting ability could pose significant challenges at the professional level. “I have absolutely no idea how he’s going to fit in the backcourt with Ja Morant,” Peek commented, highlighting concerns over Edey’s mere 8 percent shooting off pick-and-rolls and potential defensive liabilities, particularly in scenarios where he might be targeted in pick-and-roll offenses.
Grizzlies GM Zach Kleiman talks NBA Draft, Zach Edey https://t.co/JhrcIljmO1
— Commercial Appeal (@memphisnews) June 27, 2024
The discussion around Edey’s selection has been fervent among fans and pundits alike. Social media platforms have been abuzz with opinions, with one user expressing surprise at Edey being taken so early in the draft. Another user humorously noted that while they regarded Edey’s selection within the top ten as a poor choice, the potential draft position of Bronny James could also be controversial.
Bob Myers, a former NBA executive and current ESPN analyst, shared his astonishment at the Grizzlies’ pick, acknowledging it as the most surprising of the draft so far. However, Myers also suggested that Edey could potentially complement Jaren Jackson Jr., the Grizzlies’ athletic power forward, hinting at a possible strategic fit that could leverage Edey’s unique skill set.
Grizzlies Shock NBA World by Drafting Zach Edey With No. 9 Pick https://t.co/YPeFsRd134
— Mark (@NJdoc) June 27, 2024
Key Points:
i. The Memphis Grizzlies selected Purdue’s Zach Edey as the ninth overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, sparking significant controversy due to his traditional playstyle.
ii. Critics, including analyst Krysten Peek, have expressed concerns about Edey’s fit in the modern NBA, which favors quick, 3-point-heavy gameplay over traditional post-up styles.
iii. Edey, standing at 7 feet 4 inches, has been criticized for his lack of shooting ability and mobility, raising questions about his effectiveness in professional play, especially in pick-and-roll situations.
iv. Social media and sports analysts reacted strongly, with some calling Edey’s selection one of the worst picks in draft history, while others debated his potential fit alongside Grizzlies’ star Jaren Jackson Jr.
v. Despite the criticisms, some, like former NBA executive Bob Myers, see a potential upside in pairing Edey with the athletic capabilities of the existing Grizzlies roster.
Al Santana – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
