Some exciting Memphis Grizzlies news dropped Tuesday afternoon. Two of the team’s rookies were named to the First Team All-Rookie Team, an honor given to the five best rookies of the season. After the voting, Jaylen Wells and Zach Edey were third and fourth in total points. This awarded them both the honor of an All-Rookie First Team selection.
This bodes well for the Grizzlies, whose dramatic end to the season and early playoff elimination have fans needing some positive news to hang on.
Jaylen Wells, drafted 39th overall, made a notable impact in his rookie season before it was cut short by injury. Wells played both shooting guard and small forward, showcasing his versatility and shooting ability.
In 79 games (74 starts), he averaged 10.4 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.7 assists while shooting 35.2% from three.
Zach Edey, drafted ninth overall, entered the NBA with skepticism about his fit in the modern game due to his traditional, back-to-the-basket style. Despite the noise, Edey delivered a productive rookie campaign, proving himself as a valuable contributor and a formidable paint presence.
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Edey ended his rookie season (66 games, 55 starts), averaging 9.2 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game on 58% shooting from the field.
The Grizzlies are going to need both Wells and Edey to continue on this positive trajectory. From the shocking Grizzlies’ news of the team firing its coach with only a few games left to the up-and-down play and availability of their star Ja Morant, the Grizzlies need some solid pieces to build on.
Getting two rookies onto the 2025 First Team All-Rookie team is a solid start to building a successful future.
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