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Memphis Grizzlies rookie center Zach Edey is poised to be a cornerstone for the franchise this coming season, but his preseason debut will have to wait. The 7-foot-4 big man, selected ninth overall in the 2024 NBA Draft, is not expected to suit up when the Grizzlies tip off their preseason schedule against the Atlanta Hawks on October 5 in Atlanta.
Edey, who underwent a second procedure on his left ankle, has been fully cleared for all basketball activities, according to Grizzlies general manager Zach Kleiman, who provided the update on September 28. However, the team plans to carefully monitor his workload. "He's still on the same path, like we've said," Grizzlies coach Tuomas Iisalo told reporters on October 4. "Looking good for the start of the regular season."
If Edey does see preseason action, that decision will be made at a later date. He has been a regular participant in practices leading up to the preseason opener, though his involvement has been managed. During the team's first two-a-day session, Edey took part in the initial portion before being limited later in the day. Both the organization and Edey have emphasized that his availability for the regular season is the top priority.
With Edey sidelined, newly acquired centers Isaiah Stewart and Quinten Post are expected to see increased minutes. Rookie two-way player Carson Cooper will also factor into the rotation early in the preseason as the Grizzlies distribute playing time across the roster.
Memphis will open the regular season at home on October 21 against the Utah Jazz at 7 p.m. (DAZN). Edey appeared in 11 games last season, averaging 13.6 points and 11.1 rebounds per contest. As a rookie, he posted 9.2 points and 8.3 rebounds per game.
Damichael Cole is the Memphis Grizzlies beat writer for The Commercial Appeal. Contact Damichael at [email protected]. Follow Damichael on X, formerly known as Twitter, @DamichaelC.
This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: Will Grizzlies' Zach Edey play in preseason game vs Hawks? Injury update.
Originally reported by yahoo.