The Memphis Grizzlies are 2-1 to start 2025-26, putting them at third in the Western Conference. As they have 79 more games and six more months remaining in the regular season, there’s a long road ahead of them. However, good starts can have an invaluable effect on the mindsets of players, coaches, front office members and fans alike. Playing well when missing multiple rotation players inspires confidence as well.<\/p>\n
That being said, early in the 2025-26 season, the Grizzlies haven’t just generated good vibes. They’ve also shown that they have a dark horse (perhaps a dark wolf<\/a> would be more accurate) challenger in the Rookie of the Year conversation: 2025 No. 11 pick Cedric Coward<\/a>.<\/p>\n So far, Coward is averaging 19.0 points, 3.7 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 1.7 steals per game. He’s shooting 70.4 percent from the field, 72.7% from 3, and 91.7% from the free-throw line. He also has .329 wins shares per 48 minutes and a 15.2 box plus-minus.<\/p>\nDo Grizzlies Have A Rookie Of The Year Challenger?<\/h2>\n