The Memphis Grizzlies shocked plenty of people by taking Purdue center Zach Edey with the No. 9 pick in this year’s draft. Yahoo Sports draft analyst Krysten Peek was one of many critics who bashed this decision.
Immediately after the selection was announced, Peek called it “one of the worst” picks she’s seen in the history of the NBA.
“To me, this has got to be a terrible pick,” Peek said. “I’m giving this a C grade. This is one of the worst picks I’ve seen in Draft history.”
Peek then explained why she feels this way about Edey. Ultimately, she has doubts about a center with an old school playing style finding success in today’s NBA.
“This is shocking considering the way the NBA is turning in terms of value and upside as a hybrid center. He’s more of a back-to-the-basket [center] – like a Shaq, Hakeem Olajuwon type. I absolutely have no idea how he’s going to fit in the backcourt with Ja Morant. He only connected on eight percent of his shots off pick-and-rolls. And defensively, he’s a liability due to his limited footwork.”
Edey thrived at the collegiate level, averaging 25.2 points and 12.2 rebounds per game in his final season at Purdue. He finished his time on campus as a two-time national player of the year.
There’ll definitely be an adjustment from college to the pros, especially since Edey will now face centers who can stretch the floor on a more consistent basis. It’s also imperative that he expands his offensive skillset. Perhaps he’ll improve his range or his footwork.
It’ll be up to Edey to prove his doubters wrong. We’ll see if he can do just that.
Related: Video: Ja Morant’s Reaction To The Zach Edey Pick Is Going Viral