According to Ja Morant, the Grizzlies are educating Zach Edea by engaging him in the game

Finding ways to incorporate new people into any team or organization is a challenge. New situations can be scary in any industry. luckily I Morant’s “Funky” Memphis Grizzlies they have an established leadership structure that has encouraged newbies Zach Edey and Jalen Wells through the first 40 games. Taylor Jenkins has created a culture where communication and constant fine-tuning are an accepted part of the process. While Wales plays elite defense and knocks down shots, Eddie learns other lessons the hard way with every step down the field.

Edey (two points, seven rebounds, one steal, one block) coughed two turnovers and six fouls in a road loss to the Houston Rockets (120-118). He was 1 of 4 from the field, missing two 3-pointers. There were also a couple of opportunities where Edei could have knocked straight after Morant’s pass, but he hesitated. The All-Star made sure the rookie knew that was unacceptable right after one particular play in the fourth quarter.

Still, Morant’s tough love combined with a nurturing coaching style should help the Grizzlies maximize Ede’s potential. Novak had only one foul in the first half. The Rockets switched to a heavy post-iso look along with more pick-and-roll action in the second half. Jenkins had no real complaints after Edei fouled out in the Rockets’ third straight loss.

“I thought (Zach Eddy) was great (against the Rockets),” Jenkins said. “He got caught in a few situations there. He was trying to do everything we asked him to do on the ball, off the ball with his rim protection. I thought he did a really good job tonight with the rebounds. All in all, it’s just coaching moments for him — he’s hard to foul.”

Edei’s foul may have been a disappointment, but it represented a teaching opportunity, allowing Jenkins to focus on areas where the 7-foot-4 center can improve his game. More specifically, not dwelling on mistakes in high-pressure situations. When is it there is trouble for the GrizzliesThe Rockets won’t be the only team to attack the rookie’s positioning and draw some fouls.

Morant believes teams that continue to push for Edei won’t be winning those wars for much longer.

“Everybody knows who Zach is.” “They know what he brings to this team and what he’s capable of,” Morant began. “We all know what he is capable of.” We’re around each other in the gym every day so we see the effort (Eddie) puts in.”

Constructive film study conversations, on-field feedback and striving for excellence at all times are the standard at Memphis. These Grizzlies don’t want to waste a golden opportunity so it’s necessary to be tough on the rookies. Doing so without discouraging Edeo was no problem. Ja Morant’s leadership skills developed over the years under Taylor Jenkins.

“It’s about making him as comfortable as possible and making sure he maintains his confidence.” “There is no concern for him from our side,” continued Morant. “Obviously he’s a rookie, so our job is to tell him what we know about any questions he has.” If I see something on the floor, or if (Jenkins) sees something, that’s really whoever sees whatever on the floor, you tell that guy.

This culture of communication is not about pointing fingers or criticizing mistakes, but about ensuring that each team member can learn and improve from their experience. Both Morant and Jenkins stressed the importance of helping teammates improve, emphasizing the team’s philosophy of support rather than judgment.

“That’s what we’ve been about this year, it’s just helping your teammates.” It’s nothing negative or anything, just to help us be in the best position to win. Zach will be fine. We’ll be clicking as we should soon.”

Zach Edei gets more than just basketball tips from Ja Morant. Purdue alums are given the tools to excel both on and off the field. It’s clear that despite the challenges, the Grizzlies see a bright future for the rookie. Edei is likely to succeed in this role with this level of mentorship.