The Memphis Grizzlies currently have two players in the Kia NBA Rookie of the Year Ladder. Ninth overall pick Zach Edey is ranked second, while 39th overall pick Jaylen Wells is ranked third on the latest list.
The Grizzlies did a phenomenal job drafting two players who could make immediate impacts as they looked to reassert themselves as legitimate contenders this past offseason. They maximized their draft opportunities by selecting Edey in the first round. Edey was once perceived as a relic of a bygone era due to his reliance on physicality and low-post play. In the second round, they found a hidden gem in Jaylen Wells. He has surprisingly stepped in right away, averaging 11.2 points per game while shooting 44.6% from the field and 37.6% from three-point range.
Memphis Grizzlies Rookies Making Immediate Impact in the NBA
Zach Edey Proving Doubters Wrong
When Edey drafted ninth overall, many questioned the move due to his traditional style of play. Critics believed he was a player from the wrong era and that, despite his potential to be a dominant presence under the rim, he would not have a significant enough impact to warrant a top-10 selection. However, Edey is quickly proving those doubters wrong.
Despite limited minutes and opportunities early in the season, he has shown flashes that have given Grizzlies fans great hope for this pick. He is a rebounding machine with a strong ability to score in the post. Defensively, he protects the rim and adds a physical presence in the paint. On offense, he possesses a developing post-game that could turn him into a dangerous scorer.
Though still raw as a pure scorer, Edey is making an impact, averaging 9.4 points per game and 7.6 rebounds per game. Keep in mind that he is only playing a little over 20 minutes per game this season.
As the season progresses, head coach Taylor Jenkins will likely increase Edey’s minutes. His physicality will become even more valuable when facing elite big men in the Western Conference. Players like Nikola Jokić, Isaiah Hartenstein, and Daniel Gafford will challenge the Grizzlies in the paint, making Edey’s presence crucial.
Jaylen Wells: One of the Best Stories of the Season
Wells has been one of the best stories of the NBA season. The Grizzlies selected him with the 39th overall pick, a spot where most players typically spend more time in the G League before making an impact at the NBA level. However, Wells has defied expectations, stepping in as a crucial part of Memphis’ rotation. Injuries early in the season forced the Grizzlies to expand Wells’ role, allowing him to average just under 26 minutes per game—an almost unheard-of stat for a second-round rookie. His ability to seamlessly fit into the system has made an immediate impact.
Wells’ versatile skill set has been a perfect fit for the Grizzlies. He is a reliable three-point shooter and a strong perimeter defender, making him a 3-and-D player who can contribute immediately. His defensive reliability allows him to hold his own on the perimeter. He can also knock down shots when defenses collapse on the team’s stars. This combination has earned him a consistent spot in the rotation.
It is rare for a second-round pick to play meaningful minutes in his rookie season. The Grizzlies’ front office deserves credit for identifying Wells as a player who could make an immediate impact.
Grizzlies’ Future Looks Bright
As both rookies continue to gain experience, it’s safe to assume they will only get better and have an even greater impact on the team. The Grizzlies currently sit second in the Western Conference with a legitimate opportunity to contend for a title.
Wells’ ability to defend and knock down shots gives Memphis a reliable perimeter presence. Edey’s physical presence in the paint adds strength inside. Together, they provide the Grizzlies with two young players who can help them match up against the elite teams in the conference. As the season progresses, these rookies will play an essential role in the Grizzlies’ quest for championship contention.
Photo credit: © Petre Thomas-Imagn Images
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