Cedric Coward: 11th pick 'doubtful' for Grizzlies in NBA Summer League
Memphis Grizzlies rookie Cedric Coward is reportedly doubtful to play with the team in the NBA Summer League, according to Drew Hill of The Daily Memphian.
Coward averaged 17.7 points, seven rebounds, 3.7 assists and 1.7 blocks on 40% shooting from 3-point range (12-of-30) at Washington State last season. He made just six appearances before sustaining a season-ending shoulder injury in November.
The 11th pick in the 2025 NBA draft is still rehabbing that shoulder injury and was limited during the predraft process. He said that after joining the Grizzlies, he felt ready to play, but the decision to clear him would likely be made by the team.
The Grizzlies began the offseason without a first-round pick in the draft. They eventually traded the 16th pick acquired from the Orlando Magic, a future first-round selection and two second-rounders to the Portland Trail Blazers to move up five spots to take Coward.
The 21-year-old is highly touted for his ability to score at all three levels and defend multiple positions, boasting a 7-foot, 2 1/4-inch wingspan. He had a rapid rise after beginning at Willamette University (Division III) and playing two seasons at Eastern Washington.
The Grizzlies begin a three-game stint in the Salt Lake City Summer League on Saturday against the Oklahoma City Thunder (7 p.m. EDT, ESPNU). They will then play at least five more games, starting with the Boston Celtics on July 11 in Las Vegas, Nevada (4 p.m. EDT, NBA TV).
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