Memphis Grizzlies center Zach Edey is available to play against the New Orleans Pelicans.
Edey was listed as questionable due to a migraine. He left a Nov. 24 loss against the Denver Nuggets in the first quarter after taking a hit to the head.
Grizzlies players and coaches talked after the game about the impact of losing the 7-foot-3 center. Edey is widely regarded as the team’s best rebounder, screen setter and plays a big role in their ability to protect the paint.
Edey is averaging 10.2 points and 7.6 rebounds through his first five games. If you take away the six minutes in his last appearance before the injury, those numbers jump to 12.3 points and 9.3 rebounds.
The Grizzlies (6-12) are already without Brandon Clarke, who would likely be the backup center if he was healthy. Clarke is recovering from a knee surgery he received in late September. He’s expected to return sometime in late December or early January.
Damichael Cole is the Memphis Grizzlies beat writer for The Commercial Appeal. Contact Damichael at damichael.cole@commercialappeal.com. Follow Damichael on X, formerly known as Twitter, @DamichaelC.