Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant. Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports

Watch: Viral video adds to Ja Morant-Zach Edey hype for Grizzlies

By Jeff Smith | Last updated Aug 20, 2024 10:48 PM ET

While the 2023-24 season for the Memphis Grizzlies was essentially the definition of "injury-riddled," there's still no shortage of intrigue surrounding the talented young group. Led by guard Ja Morant, who's expected to be back at full strength to begin the upcoming season, the Grizzlies used their top-10 pick in the 2024 NBA Draft to add an elite pick-and-roll partner for him in Zach Edey.

The Purdue big man, listed at 7-foot-4, was a two-time national college basketball player of the year in 2023 and 2024. He averaged 25.2 points, 12.2 rebounds and 2.2 blocks per game while shooting 62.3 percent from the field last season. Now, he gets the chance to play with one of the NBA's up-and-coming star point guards in Morant.

While the thought of a Morant-Edey pairing is exciting, a recent video of the two getting in on-court work together only added to the hype surrounding the duo.

pic.twitter.com/HqMvXJ7HiN
— Diamond Scar (@diamondscar22) August 21, 2024

The potential upside is undeniable if these two click right out of the gate. The Grizzlies will also have Jaren Jackson Jr., Brandon Clarke and emerging young forwards GG Jackson and Vince Williams. Still, Edey could be in line for a significant role out of the gate with plenty of opportunities for open looks with Morant running the show.

Jeff Smith

Jeff Smith has extensive experience as a sports writer and editor, including stops at ESPN, FOX Sports, CBS Sports, USA TODAY SMG, and Heavy. Jeff's passion for sports content starts and finishes with writing and he's grateful to be able to work in that field on a daily basis.

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