The Memphis Grizzlies are balancing Zach Edey's recovery with a need for preseason minutes as they aim to shake off a difficult end to last season. Their final game was a 132-101 loss to the Houston Rockets on April 13, 2026, capping a stretch where they lost four of their last five. With the preseason opener against the Atlanta Hawks tonight, all eyes are on the status of the 7-foot-4 center.
Edey is officially cleared for full participation in training camp after offseason leg surgery. But his availability for actual preseason games remains uncertain. This creates a tricky situation for Head Coach Tuomas Iisalo and the front office. If he's ready, why hold him out? If he needs more time, why declare him cleared? It's a fine line they're walking with a player they see as a priority.
Zach Edey has very little NBA experience under his belt. He played just 11 games last season, logging under 300 total minutes. Over his two-year career, he's accumulated roughly 1,600 minutes. Compare that to other big men from his draft class. Donovan Clingan has over 3,300 minutes. Kel'el Ware has over 3,000. Alex Sarr has over 3,100.
Those three players have almost double the court time Edey has seen. Preseason games, while not counting in the standings, offer a unique environment. The speed and physicality are different from practice scrimmages. Players are fighting for roster spots and rotation minutes, raising the intensity. For a developing player coming off limited action, these reps are hard to replicate anywhere else.
The primary concern is Edey's long-term health. Rushing him back from surgery could lead to a setback, derailing his progress and the team's plans. The Grizzlies' recent form shows they need all hands on deck. After a 125-124 win over Chicago on March 29, they dropped four straight. They fell 131-115 to Milwaukee, 142-126 to Cleveland, and 132-101 to Houston.
Protecting a significant investment is smart. But so is ensuring he's prepared for the regular season grind. Finding the right balance between caution and competition is the challenge. The coaching staff must weigh the benefit of in-game rhythm against the risk of re-injury.
Memphis ended the 2025-26 campaign on a tough note. That 132-101 defeat in Houston was part of a 1-4 skid in their final five games. Integrating a healthy, effective Edey could help address those issues. His size in the paint can alter shots and secure rebounds.
However, he can't help if he's not on the floor. The decision on his preseason participation is the first step in a larger plan for the year. Fans can track the team's progress and upcoming schedule on our schedule page. Getting Edey up to speed, safely, is a key part of the Grizzlies' blueprint to improve.
