The Memphis Grizzlies' future hinges on the health of Zach Edey's left ankle as the young team builds momentum in the preseason. The 7-foot-4 center is fully cleared for camp after multiple surgeries, aiming to anchor a roster that recently beat the Atlanta Hawks 123-132 on October 5 but fell 118-122 to the Orlando Magic in a preseason contest on October 7.
Edey's size and production are foundational. He averaged 13.6 points and 11.1 rebounds on 63% shooting in just 11 games last season before his ankle gave out. The two-time college player of the year is a paint-patroller who changes games on both ends. Without him, the Grizzlies lacked an interior identity during a difficult 25-57 campaign. His presence allows the offense to run through the post and provides a defensive anchor who averaged a couple blocks a game when healthy. Memphis traded stars like Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. to focus on youth, making Edey's role even more significant.
Edey says he feels more athletic now than he did last year. He underwent surgery in June 2025 to repair the ankle, then needed another procedure in March 2026 for ongoing bone stress. That limited him to just 11 appearances. Now, after a dedicated rehab, he's been cleared for full-court activity. Grizzlies general manager Zach Kleiman stated Edey is exactly where the team hoped he'd be at this point. The center himself is locked into his body like never before. He started 55 games as a rookie, making the All-Rookie team, and the Grizzlies need that version for a full season.
He will be paired with rookie power forward Cam Boozer, the No. 3 overall pick from Duke. They worked out together before camp to build chemistry. Boozer called Edey a big change who makes playing together fun. The front office also hedged its bets on Edey's health by adding Isaiah Stewart from Detroit and signing free agent 7-footer Quinten Post from Golden State. This creates depth but the starting lineup's success depends on the Edey-Boozer duo. Their inside-out potential is the heavy focus for Memphis's offensive schemes moving forward.
The immediate focus is the next preseason fixture, an away game against the Chicago Bulls on October 9. It's another test for Edey and the new lineup. The team expects him to be ready for the regular season opener on October 21 against the Utah Jazz. Fans can track the team's progress and view the full schedule on our schedule page. If Edey stays on the court, the Grizzlies have a chance to accelerate their rebuild significantly. His health isn't just a side story. It's the main plot for Memphis this year.
