Eddie returns from injury and is cleared to play, becoming a cornerstone of the Grizzlies' rebuilding process for the new season.

Zach Eddie, who only played 11 games last season due to recurring left ankle injuries, has now been cleared to participate in full-court scrimmage and is expected to make his official comeback in the season opener against the Utah Jazz on October 21.

Whether this 7-foot-4 center can stay healthy and play consistently will directly determine the success of the Memphis Grizzlies' complete rebuild.

Eddie showed tremendous potential in his rookie season, starting 55 games and being selected to the All-Rookie Team. However, in June 2025 and March 2026, he underwent two ankle surgeries due to sprains and bone stress reactions, causing him to miss most of last season.

During training camp, Eddie stated that he is in better physical condition than last year and is ready to play; team general manager Zach Kleiman also confirmed that his recovery progress is fully in line with expectations.

The Grizzlies, who only managed a 25-57 record last season, have undergone a complete overhaul. In February, the team traded Jaren Jackson Jr., and in June, they traded Ja Morant to the Portland Trail Blazers, shifting their focus entirely to their young core.

Eddie's height and rim protection are the defensive pillars of this new lineup. In the new season, he will partner with Cameron Boozer, the third overall pick from Duke University, in the frontcourt to form the core of the team's future offense and defense.

To address Eddie's injury concerns, the Grizzlies exercised his team option and acquired Isaiah Stewart and Quentin Post as interior reserves. Even with their core roster remaining healthy, in the highly competitive Western Conference, the young Grizzlies are expected to need another one to two years to return to the playoffs.

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