Insider Insights: Grizzlies improve to 4-0 despite Zach Edey’s injury

The undefeated Memphis Grizzlies looked to continue their quest for a summer league title, and would get some big help in the form of Zach Edey.  Early on the 7’4” lottery pick was a problem for the Pelicans, scoring six quick points on the interior and protecting the rim with an early block. Sadly, it would not last long as Edey would turn his ankle in the 2nd quarter and would not return.

As for the other Grizzlies, GG Jackson continued his case for Summer league MVP early on knocking down shots from deep and getting to the free throw line, leading the way with 9 first quarter points. However, Jordan Hawkins and Jordan Ford would keep the Pelicans in the game with 20 first half point combined. Heading into the 3rd quarter it was all tied up at 43 with a playoff berth on the line.

Coming out of the half, Scotty Pippen Jr. began to impose his will on both ends with great on ball defense, passing, and some fast break buckets giving the Grizzlies their first double digit lead of the night. Jaylen Wells also provided some much needed offense and led all scorers with 17 points through the first 3 quarters and the Grizzlies were in control coming into the final stretch.

The Pelicans would make a run in the 4th quarter, but were met with a quick 7-0 run from Dejon Jarreau. Down the stretch, GG Jackson made winning plays on both ends, including an incredible move to the basket to put the game out of reach and to improve to 4-0 in Las Vegas.

How Concerning is the Edey Injury?

Edey and his injury was the big story coming into tonight’s game and it will continue to dominate the conversation going forward. It is disappointing that his summer was derailed by injuries, but it’s not time to panic just yet. In college Edey never had any major injuries, starting 30+ games in each of his last three years in college and playing 30 minutes a game his last two seasons.

While it is concerning that he’s been hurt in the summer, history suggests he will be pretty durable when it comes to the regular season. The concern is valid especially because of the Grizzlies history, but it’s not time to overreact so early in his pro career. As long as he is ready to go day one of the regular season, none of this will matter.

GG Jackson for Summer League MVP?

Among players that’s have played in all 4 of their summer league games, GG Jackson is the leading scorer for summer league. He’s done it at all three levels, showing off his range and ability to get to his spots in the paint and the mid range. With the Grizzlies sitting at 4-0, ge could very well end up being the summer league MVP if the Grizzlies keep it up.

As for his fit with the main roster, Jackson continues to show why he is one of the most talented players in his age group. Playing against subpar competition at summer league he is clearly a few tiers above his opponents. With his role likely being the 6th man, everything he has shown this summer suggests he will be even better playing with guys like Ja Morant and Desmond Bane. Out of everyone on the Grizzlies, Jackson’s development could be the swing 

Does Scotty Pippen Jr. deserve a roster spot?

Pippen has been playing extremely well in Vegas, averaging 19.3 points, 7.8 assists, and a summer league best 3.5 steals per game. He should be in the conversation for summer league MVP and a full time roster spot. Pippen is currently in a two-way contract meaning he will spend a lot of time in the G-league, but there is no doubt he is the Grizzlies backup PG for the future. 

His ability to control the game on offense while being a disrupter on defense make him a perfect candidate for a full-time roster spot in the near future. Even if it’s not with the Grizzlies, it’s clear that Scotty Pippen Jr. is an NBA point guard and should be treated as such.