Memphis Grizzlies rookie center Zach Edey underwent surgery in June 2025 to repair and stabilize a re-sprained left ankle suffered during an offseason workout. The team has set a re-evaluation timetable of four months, placing his next medical check around October 2025, just before the regular season’s scheduled October 21 tipoff. While the outlook is positive and the team expects a full long-term recovery, it is possible that he could miss additional time beyond the season’s start, depending on rehabilitation progress.
What to Expect in 2025-26 and a Gradual Return
When Edey returns to full health, the Grizzlies foresee a phased integration. As rehab progresses through late October and beyond, medical staff and team will assess his mobility, strength, and lateral stability before increasing minutes.
Players like Jaren Jackson Jr. and Brandon Clarke are poised to absorb more minutes at center in his absence. Jackson is known for rim protection and lateral agility, while Clarke offers energy and interior scoring. These rotations will likely remain in place until Edey demonstrates game-ready conditioning.
If Edey continues to experience minor setbacks or stiffness during rehab, his return timeline could stretch into November or December, meaning he might be out for a chunk of the early regular-season schedule.
Rookie Season Recap for 2024-25
Zach Edey was the ninth overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, joining Memphis after a dominant Purdue college career. In his rookie season, he posted the following:
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Games played/started | 66 / 55 |
| Minutes per game | 21.5 |
| Points per game | 9.2 |
| Rebounds per game | 8.3 |
| Assists per game | 1.0 |
| Blocks per game | 1.3 |
| FG % | 58.0% |
He earned All-Rookie First Team honors, anchoring Memphis’ frontcourt in limited minutes with high efficiency. On April 5, he set a franchise rookie record with 21 rebounds against Detroit, surpassing a mark that had stood since 1996. In the first round of the playoffs against Oklahoma City, he recorded seven blocks in Game 4, the most by a rookie in a playoff game in 15 years.
.@zach_edey 21 rebounds is both the Grizzlies' franchise rookie record and the most rebounds by a rookie in a single game this season. 😤
Presented by @RobinhoodApp pic.twitter.com/bCBnlHX944
— Memphis Grizzlies (@memgrizz) April 6, 2025
Outlook for a Stronger and Refined Edey
Assuming a return in early November, Memphis can expect a gradual ramp-up in minutes as he regains rhythm and strength. He should provide immediate impact in rebounding and rim protection, while offensive volume may be limited early. He will continue to serve as a high-efficiency interior finisher, possibly with adjustments to usage to reduce re-injury risk. Alongside Clarke, Memphis will have a more versatile frontcourt rotation that balances athleticism, rim protection, and shooting.
A best-case scenario has him returning healthy and contributing by December, but the team and medical staff may choose to delay his full return until late fall to ensure no setbacks.
The Season Ahead Without Edey and Then With Him
Brandon Clarke will carry the center minutes through October and likely part of November, potentially increasing their roles. Clarke adds offensive energy and hustle. Their performance in those months may shape Memphis’ early-season identity.
Once Edey returns in full, Memphis will likely reintegrate him into a moderated role. Not necessarily back to a 21-minute starter instantly, but enough to stretch the floor, rebound at an elite rate, and protect the rim. Over time, he could again average near a double-double.
Ultimately, Edey’s 2025-26 season hinges on how smoothly his rehab progresses during the October re-evaluation. If all goes well, the Grizzlies regain a rising star. If complications arise, Memphis could face a longer adjustment period, but the long-term outlook remains promising.
Photo credit: © Petre Thomas-Imagn Images
