How Cedric Coward is ‘igniting’ the Rookie of the Year in a new role

As it is The Memphis Grizzlies are navigating a challenging holiday stretch in their schedule, one of the most encouraging developments has been the rise of rookie wing Cedric Coward. What began as a cautious introduction to the minutes-driven life of the NBA quickly evolved into a significant rotation role. Tuomas IisaloRecent user comments shed light on why the team is ramping up Coward’s role just in time for the holiday frenzy.

Iisalo’s And Morant-less The Grizzlies are trying to climb back the Western Conference’s top-six race is experiencing its usual midseason bumps. In the middle of everyone discarded dramaKukavica earned the trust of the coaching staff. Novak was simply unquestionably good, exceeding expectations after returning from a long injury rehabilitation.

“Ced has had a great start to the season,” Iisalo told ClutchPoints. “Obviously, we were limited in minutes (to start the season). He wasn’t completely free, but he did a great job in those minutes.”

Cuckoo’s early influence came from doing simple things with force. His quickness in transition, willingness to run the floor and comfortable offense gave Memphis an energetic boost on the wing. Iisalo noted that Coward has expanded his skill set faster than expected as a finisher and secondary creator.

“Whether it’s just running the floor or playing close, he’s also added some creation to his game,” Iisalo noted. “There are off-ball screens and pick-and-rolls that are encouraging for a 6-foot-6 wing.”

As the holidays approach, with games often rotated, the Grizzlies see Cuckoo as a key component to maintain energy and spacing, especially if veterans need rest or injuries crop up.

But it is not only in attack where Kukavica leaves his mark. Iisalo was particularly impressed with the rookie’s defensive instincts, which allowed the team to experiment with more flexible lineups.

“Defensively (Coward) was very versatile,” Iisalo added. “He’s already, just in his first year, a great secondary rim protector. That’s something you don’t see often from the wing. He also helps us rebound the ball, which ignites our fast break.”

Kukar’s ability to guard multiple positions, clean things up on the glass and immediately fuel transition offense fits the identity Memphis hopes to lean on while dealing with injuries and a heavy workload.

While Cedric Coward may still be trying to overcome early-season minute restrictions, his rapid development suggests those restrictions could soon be lifted entirely. For now, the Grizzlies are content to watch their promising wing continue to grow into his role, providing just the kind of energy and versatility that title contenders need from their depth pieces during the most demanding stretch of the season.