Memphis Grizzlies rookie centre Zach Edey has re-sprained his left ankle in an offseason workout earlier this week, and will require surgery to stabilize the joint. The current timeline for his recovery has him likely missing the start of the 2025-26 NBA season.
“After consulting with the Grizzlies and multiple specialists, we decided this is the best approach for Zach long-term as it gets him back to 100% with no limitations. He will make a full recovery and be back better than ever,” said Edey’s agent.
The Canadian big man was named to the all-rookie team, and finished 5th in NBA rookie of the year voting after averaging 9.2pt/8.3reb/1ast/1.3blk per game in 2024-25. Edey led all qualified rookies in field goal percentage and rebounds per game, logging 12 double-doubles on the year.
The 7’3″ centre won’t have a clear path to resume basketball activities until after the surgery is completed. However, the hope is that by undergoing the procedure now, it will prevent the area from becoming a recurring issue throughout his career.
A former two time national player of the year at Purdue, Edey previously dealt with ankle issues in the early going of the season, ultimately missing 12 games.
While the news isn’t ideal, the fact that it occurred in the offseason as opposed to midway through the 2025-26 NBA campaign can be viewed as a silver lining. Memphis’ core of Edey, Ja Morant, Jaren Jackson Jr., Desmond Bane, and Jaylen Wells all remain under contract, leaving the team’s window to compete wide open.
That being said, Edey’s early season absence could serve as additional motivation for the Grizzlies front office to go out and acquire additional front court depth via free agency or trade this summer.
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