The Memphis Grizzlies’ end-of-January slump was seen as a sign that change was necessary. The organization took the first step towards a new direction by shockingly trading two-time All-Star Jaren Jackson Jr. and not point guard Ja Morant. An NBA insider revealed the latest news regarding the organization’s outlook following the Jackson Jr. trade.
Grizzlies Have Identified Faces of New Era
NBA insider Grant Afseth revealed on DallasHoopsJournal that the Grizzlies have identified their new faces of the franchise in center Zach Edey and wing Cedric Coward. Afseth said, “Memphis has chosen patience, flexibility, and long-term upside rather than incremental retooling. A major part of that future is Zach Edey and Cedric Coward. Sources told DallasHoopsJournal.com that both players are viewed internally as cornerstone players.”
The Grizzlies selected Edey ninth overall in the 2024 draft, while shaking off questions about his pro potential. Edey made the All-Rookie Team last year and quieted his critics. He has taken another step forward this season, despite being slowed by constant issues with his surgically repaired left ankle.
He’s averaging 13.6 points and 11.1 rebounds in 11 games this season. Most importantly, Edey has been a solid defender on the court despite limited mobility due to his ankle. Edey’s ability to score wasn’t questioned coming out of college; it was his ability to defend at an above-average level. The Grizzlies are convinced Edey can do it, and he has the potential to be a top-10 center if he continues to improve.
Our 🐻 Top Plays of the Month for January 🔥 presented by @autozone pic.twitter.com/Z0oIrN3VR3
— Memphis Grizzlies (@memgrizz) February 3, 2026
The 11th pick in last summer’s draft, Coward is averaging 13.8 points and 6.2 rebounds per game as a rookie, while shooting 46.7% from the field and 34.5% from three. At 22, Coward was considered one of the most pro-ready prospects in the class, and he’s lived up to expectations. If he continues developing his shooting, the athletic wing could become one of the best two-way players at this position.
As Afseth points out, the Grizzlies now have the resources to try to replicate the success the Oklahoma City Thunder have enjoyed recently. The organization now has over 10 first-round draft picks, along with great financial flexibility to shape its next contending team.
It’s certainly surreal for many Grizzlies fans, as the team was considered a dark-horse title contender just a few years ago. Now Jackson Jr, Dillon Brooks, and Desmond Bane are gone, and it feels inevitable that Morant will be next.
The combination of Morant having his worst offensive season, combined with more than $80 million left on his max contract, has damaged his trade market, and means it’s unlikely the Grizzlies will receive anywhere near the offer they just accepted for Jackson Jr.
Morant is currently out of action with a left elbow sprain, but his morale while playing for an organization that is headed in another direction is something to keep an eye on after the All-Star break if he isn’t traded.
