The Memphis Grizzlies' 2026-27 season hinges on the health and performance of their centers, led by Zach Edey, as the team looks to rebound from a difficult stretch. Memphis enters this campaign focused on development after finishing last season with a 132-101 loss to the Houston Rockets on April 13, 2026, and dropping their final five games.
Can Zach Edey stay healthy and lead?
Zach Edey is the most impactful player in the Memphis frontcourt, but his availability is the biggest question. His rookie year showed promise with strong rebounding and finishing around the basket. Edey provided legitimate size on defense, which the Grizzlies desperately need.
His second NBA season was derailed by injuries, making the upcoming year a major opportunity. He must reestablish himself as the team's anchor. In his last healthy season, Edey averaged 13 points, 11 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game while shooting 63% from the field.
Those numbers highlight his potential as a double-double machine. The Grizzlies' rebuild needs a healthy Edey to control the paint and protect the rim. His growth, even from that solid baseline, is essential for any competitive push. You can track his progress and the team's overall stats throughout the season.
What does Isaiah Stewart bring to Memphis?
The acquisition of Isaiah Stewart cannot be overlooked. He arrives as an enforcer and an energizer for a team that lacked physicality. Stewart is also a great defender who can switch onto multiple positions.
His presence on the interior provides a different look from Edey. Stewart plays with a high motor and brings toughness that can set a tone for the entire roster. He is the kind of player who does the dirty work that often goes unnoticed on the stat sheet.
Pairing Stewart's intensity with Edey's size could form a formidable defensive duo. His ability to stretch the floor slightly also offers some offensive flexibility. Stewart's role will be to complement Edey and provide stability when the starter is off the floor.
How do the centers fit into the bigger picture?
This season is about growth, development, and determining which players stick around for the long term. The goalposts for expectations have shifted significantly for Memphis. The Grizzlies will look very different on the court compared to recent years.
The center position is a microcosm of the entire team's situation. It has talent with clear upside, but it is hampered by questions of durability and fit. Success depends on Edey and Stewart staying on the court together consistently.
Their performance will directly influence the development of the team's younger perimeter players. A solid interior defense makes everyone else's job easier. The schedule ahead is tough, and you can see the challenges on our schedule page.
What is the path forward for the Grizzlies?
The path starts with health, especially for Zach Edey. He needs to prove he can be a cornerstone of this rebuild by playing a large number of games. His development as a passer and in defensive positioning will be watched closely.
Isaiah Stewart must integrate quickly and provide the veteran presence the team needs. His playoff experience from prior stops could be invaluable in the locker room. The combination of their skills should improve the team's rebounding and interior scoring.
Memphis is clearly in a building phase, and patience is required. The recent 0-5 skid to end last season is a stark reminder of the work ahead. Evaluating this center duo will be a key part of determining the team's direction for the next several years.
