Memphis Grizzlies center Zach Edey is set to undergo surgery on his previously injured left ankle after re‑spraining it during an offseason workout this week . The procedure will involve stabilizing the ligaments to address what the team described as “excessive ligamentous laxity” . Grizzlies management and Edey’s agent, Mark Bartelstein, emphasized that this is the best long‑term strategy to get him back to full health without limitations .
At 7‑foot‑4, Edey was one of the most promising rookie big men in the 2024‑25 season. Memphis selected him 9th overall out of Purdue, where he was a two‑time Naismith Player of the Year . In his rookie campaign, he started 55 of 66 games, averaging 9.2 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks in just 21.5 minutes per game, helping propel the Grizzlies to the playoffs . Notably, in Game 4 of the first-round playoff series against the Thunder, Edey became the first rookie to record at least eight points, eight rebounds, and seven blocks in under 33 minutes .
However, his ascent took a hit when he badly sprained the same ankle last November, causing a 12-game absence . The latest re‑injury occurred during offseason training, prompting the decision for surgery . Grizzlies brass have warned that this procedure will delay Edey’s return, potentially sidelining him for the beginning of the 2025-26 campaign . Recovery is expected to span four to six months , raising concerns about the team’s frontcourt depth as they navigate his prolonged absence .
Despite the setback, the outlook remains optimistic. Bartelstein reaffirmed his confidence: “He will make a full recovery and be back better than ever” . The Grizzlies clearly intend for this to be a long-term solution, not a quick fix in hopes of salvaging his availability this fall .
—
🏀 What This Means for the Grizzlies
Immediate impact: Memphis will start the 2025‑26 season without their premier rookie center,