The Memphis Grizzlies have made a remarkable resurgence this season, bouncing back from an injury-plagued campaign that kept them out of the playoffs last year. With a 19-9 record, they have positioned themselves as the second seed in the highly competitive Western Conference, largely due to the emergence of their young talent. Memphis has become a beacon of success, with its stellar front office and a coach who knows how to get the best out of his players. The team’s rejuvenation was accelerated when they drafted Zach Edey and Jaylen Wells in the 2024 NBA Draft, moves that were met with widespread approval and optimism.
This season, the Grizzlies have proven to be one of the most exciting and well-rounded teams in the league. While they have experienced a series of injuries, they’ve found a way to adapt and thrive, with Head Coach Taylor Jenkins embracing a coaching style that leans heavily on the young prospects at his disposal. By trusting the rookies, Jenkins has allowed them to grow in real-time, something that has paid off handsomely, especially in their recent dominant victory over the Golden State Warriors.
In that contest, Memphis delivered a commanding 144-94 win, showcasing the contributions of their rookies, particularly Edey and Wells. The pair were pivotal to the Grizzlies’ success, with each player contributing significantly in their roles. Edey, a towering presence at center, finished the game with a stat line that included eight points, eight rebounds, four assists, and two blocks. He played a major role in limiting Draymond Green’s impact on the game, forcing the Warriors’ veteran into what could be considered the worst performance of his career, capped off with a dreadful -42 plus-minus.
Edey’s defensive prowess was evident throughout the game, as he made it difficult for Green and other Warriors to get easy looks, controlling the paint and keeping Golden State from establishing any rhythm. On the offensive end, Edey showcased his versatility, not just as a scorer but also as a facilitator, helping Memphis maintain their high tempo on offense.
Meanwhile, Jaylen Wells, another rookie, had an equally impressive outing, continuing his stellar play with 13 points, four rebounds, an assist, and a steal in just 20 minutes of action. He shot an efficient 3-for-4 from beyond the arc, showing his growing comfort as a perimeter shooter, while also staying perfect inside the arc. Wells has quickly established himself as a versatile two-way player, playing a crucial role in the Grizzlies’ success on both ends of the floor. His ability to contribute as a shooter, defender, and playmaker has made him a valuable asset for the team, and his performance in the Warriors game was a clear illustration of his potential.
The Grizzlies have become one of the best teams in the NBA this season thanks to the solid performances from their young players, including the rookies, as well as the leadership of established stars like Ja Morant. The team’s balance of youthful energy and seasoned talent has made them one of the most dangerous teams in the West. Their blend of athleticism, defense, and versatility has allowed them to compete at the highest level, even in the face of adversity.
One of the key factors contributing to Memphis’s success this season is the stability provided by their front office and coaching staff. Memphis is known for its exceptional ability to draft and develop young talent, and that has been crucial in their rebound from last year’s disappointing campaign. With the addition of Edey and Wells, the Grizzlies have significantly bolstered their roster, ensuring that they have depth at nearly every position. This depth has been particularly important as the team has had to contend with injuries to some of their key players.
The trust that Jenkins has placed in his rookies has been a testament to the organization’s long-term vision. Rather than holding the new players back, Jenkins has given them ample playing time and opportunities to contribute, and the results have been clear. The Grizzlies’ coaching staff has been adept at integrating their young players into the system, ensuring that they are put in positions to succeed. This approach has allowed Edey and Wells to settle in and showcase their skills, helping Memphis build momentum as the season progresses.
While injuries have been a challenge, Memphis’s depth has enabled them to weather the storm and continue performing at a high level. The success of the Grizzlies’ young players has helped offset the loss of some veteran contributors, and their improved play has been a major reason for the team’s strong start to the season.
Memphis has a well-rounded and dynamic roster that is built to compete both now and in the future. The performances of players like Edey and Wells highlight the team’s ability to develop young talent, making the Grizzlies one of the most promising teams in the league moving forward. The coaching staff’s faith in their rookies is paying off, as Memphis continues to shine as one of the top teams in the Western Conference.
As the season continues, the Grizzlies are poised to make some noise in the postseason, with their mix of veteran leadership and young talent setting them up for success. The emergence of players like Edey and Wells has only added to the excitement surrounding this Memphis squad, as they have the potential to be a major force in the NBA for years to come. With a strong foundation in place, the Grizzlies are ready to prove that their resurgence is no fluke and that they are a team to watch for the remainder of the season.
