Latest news with #ZachKleiman
Yahoo
a day ago
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Grizzlies GM admits Desmond Bane trade is ‘great' for Magic
The post Grizzlies GM admits Desmond Bane trade is 'great' for Magic appeared first on ClutchPoints. The Memphis Grizzlies kicked off their 2025 offseason with a seismic trade, sending star guard Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic in exchange for Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, and multiple draft picks. The move, though controversial among Grizzlies fans, was acknowledged by general manager Zach Kleiman as a significant gain for Orlando. Advertisement 'I think it's a great trade for Orlando. I hope it will be a win-win over time,' Kleiman said during his first public comments following the trade, via Drew Hill of The Daily Memphian. He cited financial constraints under the new CBA's first and second apron restrictions as a major factor in moving Bane. With Jaren Jackson Jr. due for a contract extension, retaining both Jackson and Bane would have likely pushed the Grizzlies into an unsustainable cap situation, with three players potentially earning over $40 million annually. Bane's departure left a notable void on the roster, and Memphis acted swiftly to address it. Initially holding the 16th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, the Grizzlies traded up to No. 11 in a deal with the Portland Trail Blazers. In exchange for the higher pick, Memphis sent Portland the rights to Yang Hansen (No. 16), a future first-rounder, and two future second-round picks. With the 11th pick, the Grizzlies selected Cedric Coward, a 6-foot-5 wing from Washington State. Despite a limited sample size, just six games due to injury, Coward posted impressive averages of 17.7 points, 7.0 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 1.7 blocks per game. He also shot 55.7% from the field, 40.0% from 3, and 83.9% from the free-throw line. Prior to transferring, Coward was named to the 2023–24 All-Big Sky First Team and NABC All-District 6 First Team at Eastern Washington. Advertisement Coward is viewed as a high-upside replacement for Desmond Bane, especially given his three-point shooting ability and defensive potential. He possesses a 7-foot-2 wingspan and demonstrated the athleticism to guard multiple positions. With Coward joining promising rookie Jaylen Wells on the wing, the Grizzlies are leaning into a younger core to support Morant and Jackson Jr. Memphis still holds the 48th and 56th picks in the second round of the draft, leaving the door open for further roster changes. Related: Malika Andrews makes 'Colin Cowherd' gaffe for Cedric Coward pick Related: Grizzlies land rising star Cedric Coward in No. 11 pick trade with Blazers
Yahoo
a day ago
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Why Grizzlies see Giannis Antetokounmpo potential in Cedric Coward
The post Why Grizzlies see Giannis Antetokounmpo potential in Cedric Coward appeared first on ClutchPoints. Some analysts were surprised when Commissioner Adam Silver announced the Memphis Grizzlies traded up to select Cedric Coward in the 2025 NBA Draft. The soon-to-be 22-year-old only played six games at Washington State last season, after all, with much of the college tape coming from the NCAA Division III level. Advertisement However, EVP Zach Kleiman's organization saw something special: A raw, high-upside prospect with a skill set and physical profile reminiscent of a young Giannis Antetokounmpo. Much like Antetokounmpo, who went from playing in Greece's second-tier league to being selected 15th overall by the Milwaukee Bucks, Cedric Coward's path to the Grizzlies is anything but conventional. The college career began at Division III Willamette University. Coward averaged an impressive 19.5 points, 12 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game, hitting 45.3% from three-point range as a freshman. The Fresno, CA, native then transferred to Eastern Washington, earning First Team All-Big Sky honors in 2024. While not quite on the same eye level as Giannis, the Grizzlies believe Coward has the tools to develop into a similar force on the court. Advertisement Averaging 17.7 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 3.7 assists in just six games before a shoulder injury cut short a lone season at Washington State (2024-25) was enough to convince Kleiman to commit. Cedric Coward's intangibles entice Grizzlies Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports At 6-foot-6 with a 7-foot-2¼-inch wingspan, Cedric Coward possesses a physical profile that screams versatility, a hallmark of Antetokounmpo's game. His combine measurements were eye-popping: the 11th-longest wingspan overall, the third-quickest three-quarter sprint among guards, and the third-highest standing vertical leap. These attributes allow Coward to guard multiple positions, disrupt passing lanes, and finish above the rim in transition, much like a young Giannis did as he developed into a Defensive Player of the Year. Advertisement Coward's wingspan and lateral quickness are disruptive, giving Tuomas Iisalo someone capable of switching across positions and challenging shots at the rim (1.7 blocks per game). This defensive versatility (0.9 steals per game) mirrors Antetokounmpo's ability to anchor Milwaukee's defense, and Memphis believes Coward can develop into a similar two-way force alongside stars like Ja Morant, Jaylen Wells, and Jaren Jackson Jr. Of course, comparing any prospect to Antetokounmpo comes with caveats. Giannis' combination of size (6-foot-11), athleticism, and playmaking is nearly unprecedented. Coward, at 6-foot-6, lacks the same physical dominance. The Grizzlies would argue Coward's measurables match Pascal Siakam, OG Anunoby, Mikal Bridges, Jalen Williams, and Scottie Barnes, too, though. Still, the limited sample size at Washington State raises questions about consistency against top competition. Advertisement Additionally, his ball-handling and decision-making in the halfcourt need refinement. Coward forced too many drives before landing at Washington State and struggled against overly physical defenders. Defensively, while his tools are elite, his discipline and consistency must improve to reach Antetokounmpo's level of impact. However, these weaknesses are not unlike the rawness Giannis displayed early in his career. The Bucks had patience and trusted the development system to turn Antetokounmpo into a superstar. Tuomas Iisalo is being tasked to do the same with Coward. Thankfully, with Ja Morant entrenched as the team's dynamic playmaker, Coward's offensive game has room to grow in an ideal environment. Cedric Coward's upside is obvious James Snook-USA TODAY Sports Offensively, Coward's game also draws parallels to Giannis' early career. The newest member of the Grizzlies dished out 3.7 assists per game at Washington State (1.9 career), highlighting a budding playmaking instinct. Coward's tape is full of flashy transition corner-three finds and smart entry passes. Advertisement Posting 40% three-point shooting and 72% field-goal percentage marks over 72 college games is downright astonishing. Zach Edey did not finish as well as Coward at the rim. Fellow Washington State alum Klay Thompson was not as proficient (39.8% 3PA) beyond the arc. There is a scoring versatility here that, while not as explosive as Giannis' paint-dominating style, offers a modern All-Star skill set with room to grow. The Grizzlies have every reason to envision Coward evolving into a multifaceted offensive threat, much like Giannis did as he added playmaking and shooting to his arsenal. A role is ready for the 2025 NBA Draft pick as well. Trading up to draft Coward is an obvious attempt to replace Desmond Bane's two-way impact with even greater upside in a younger, longer, cheaper asset. Late bloomers who defy expectations, leveraging their unique physical profiles and relentless work ethic, are gold to NBA front offices. Cedric Coward is far from a finished product, but his rare blend of size, athleticism, and two-way upside gives him a pathway to stardom. Advertisement EVP Zach Kleiman sees shades of Giannis Antetokounmpo, who transformed from a raw prospect into a two-time MVP in the rookie's game for good reason. If Coward develops even a fraction of that potential, then the Grizzlies would have snagged the steal of the 2025 NBA Draft for a pittance of a price. Related: Grizzlies GM admits Desmond Bane trade is 'great' for Magic Related: Malika Andrews makes 'Colin Cowherd' gaffe for Cedric Coward pick
Yahoo
a day ago
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Grizzlies NBA mock draft roundup: Who will Memphis take with No. 16 pick?
The NBA season ended only a couple of days ago, but it's already time for the 2025 NBA Draft. The Memphis Grizzlies ended the 2024-25 season without a first-round draft pick, but general manager Zach Kleiman traded Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic for Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, four first-round picks and a pick swap. Advertisement One of those first-round picks is the No. 16 selection in this year's draft, which begins June 25 (7 p.m. CT, ESPN) and continues with the second round on June 26 (7 p.m. CT, ESPN) at Barclays Center in New York. Memphis now has a chance to add a first-round pick to its roster in what's considered a deep draft. The Grizzlies have plenty of assets now, so that pick could be packaged as part of another trade. If Kleiman decides to keep the pick, there are plenty of places he could go. Here's a roundup of some recent NBA mock drafts. The Grizzlies also have the No. 48 and No. 56 picks in the second round of the draft. ESPN: Cedric Coward, Washington State If the Grizzlies pick Coward, it'll be the second straight year they've taken a player out of Washington State. It worked out in 2024, when Jaylen Wells went from a second-round pick to a finalist for NBA Rookie of the Year. Advertisement Coward began his career at Division III Willamette before transferring to Eastern Washington, and then Washington State. He averaged 17.7 points, seven rebounds and 3.7 assists in six games last season before suffering a season-ending shoulder injury. The 6-foot-6, 206-pound guard originally entered the transfer portal and committed to Duke but elected to stay in the draft. USA TODAY: Joan Beringer, KK Cedevita Beringer plays professionally in Slovenia. A 6-10, 230-pound big man, he would give the Grizzlies another piece on the interior. That will be a point of emphasis throughout the offseason because they could use more depth behind Zach Edey, who will miss the start of the season as he recovers from ankle surgery. Advertisement Though Beringer wouldn't be expected to contribute right away, he's an intriguing option for the future. The Athletic: Liam McNeeley, UConn The Grizzlies went with a UConn wing in Cam Spencer in the 2024 draft, and they could do the same with McNeeley in 2025. McNeeley has a higher ceiling because of his scoring ability, which he showcased throughout his season with the Huskies even as he battled injuries. McNeeely — who played high school basketball with projected top pick Cooper Flagg — averaged 14.5 points and six rebounds per game in 2024-25. He's listed at 6-7 and 210 pounds. CBS Sports: Liam McNeeley, UConn CBS Sports also has McNeeley heading to Memphis. Advertisement Reach sports writer Jonah Dylan at or on X @thejonahdylan. This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: Grizzlies NBA mock draft roundup: Who will Memphis take with No. 16 pick?
Yahoo
a day ago
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Memphis Grizzlies NBA Summer League schedule 2025: Games, times, TV in Salt Lake City, Las Vegas
The NBA has released the full schedule for the Memphis Grizzlies and all teams for the 2025 Las Vegas Summer League games. Scheduling for the Grizzlies' Salt Lake City Summer League games already had been announced. Advertisement The Grizzlies will play four games in Las Vegas, starting on July 11, before having a chance to advance to the semifinals and championship game. Summer league play in Vegas runs July 10-20. Memphis will play the Boston Celtics on July 11; Portland Trail Blazers on July 12; Golden State Warriors on July 15; and Atlanta Hawks on July 17. All Las Vegas games will be televised. As usual, Memphis will begin its run in Utah at the Salt Lake City Summer League with three other teams. The Grizzlies will play three games in Utah before heading to Las Vegas. The games in Utah won't count against their tournament record for Las Vegas. The Grizzlies play the NBA champion Oklahoma City Thunder on July 5; Utah Jazz on July 7; and Philadelphia 76ers on July 8. Advertisement Summer league will be the first chance Grizzlies fans can see 2025 draft picks Cedric Coward, Javon Small and Jahmai Mashack. Coward, a first-round pick at No. 11 overall, is still "TBD" for summer league due to a shoulder injury from last season, Grizzlies general manager Zach Kleiman said. Coward said he feels healthy, but the Grizzlies want to see him practicing with contact before being cleared for games. Memphis hasn't announced its summer league team, but there are several names from the current roster who could be included. Jaylen Wells and GG Jackson are among the current players who have expressed interest in playing summer league games. Cam Spencer also could be included after playing sparingly this past season. Advertisement Former first-round pick Zach Edey had hoped to play in summer league, but his ankle injury will keep him out. Here is the full Grizzlies summer league schedule. Full Grizzlies Las Vegas, Salt Lake City Summer League schedule All times Central Salt Lake City July 5: Grizzlies vs Oklahoma City Thunder (6 p.m.) July 7: Grizzlies vs. Utah Jazz (8 p.m.) July 8: Grizzlies vs. Philadelphia 76ers (6 p.m.) Las Vegas July 11: Grizzlies vs. Celtics (3 p.m., NBATV) July 12: Grizzlies vs. Blazers (9:30 p.m., ESPN2) July 15: Grizzlies vs. Warriors (9:30 p.m., ESPN+) July 17: Grizzlies vs. Hawks (5 p.m., NBATV) Damichael Cole is the Memphis Grizzlies beat writer for The Commercial Appeal. Contact Damichael at Follow Damichael on X, formerly known as Twitter, @DamichaelC. This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: Memphis Grizzlies Las Vegas NBA Summer League schedule 2025 released
Reuters
29-03-2025
- Sport
- Reuters
Grizzlies GM: Taylor Jenkins fired due to 'urgency' of season
March 29 - Memphis Grizzlies general manager Zach Kleiman said Saturday that the decision to fire coach Taylor Jenkins was "in the best interest of the team." The timing of Jenkins' dismissal, announced Friday, came as a surprise with the Grizzlies battling for playoff position in the Western Conference. Memphis is 44-29 and beginning a key three-game homestand against the Los Angeles Lakers, Boston Celtics and Golden State Warriors. It was the short time remaining between now and the end of the season that led Kleiman to fire Jenkins, who said repeatedly that the decision was his alone. He offered very few specifics into how he came to that decision, however. "Urgency is a core principle of ours," said Kleiman, who spoke for just over two minutes. "So, (I) decided to go on with the move." The Grizzlies haven't acted with urgency. They were in second place in the Western Conference on Feb. 27 with a 38-20 record. Since then, they are 6-9 to dip in the standings and put a home-court advantage in a first-round playoff series in jeopardy. Entering action Saturday, the Grizzlies and the Lakers had identical records to stand tied for fourth place in the conference. The top six are guaranteed playoff berths, with the top four rewarded with home-court advantage. Kleiman said the team was not notified in advance and no players influenced his decision. "I'm focused on how we operate. I'm responsible for everything. I'm responsible for coaching. I'm responsible for the roster. I'm not trying to absolve myself of anything. I'm excited to see what this team can do the rest of the way," Kleiman said. "This is the conclusion I came to that this is in the best interest of the team and we push forward with this group." Assistant coach Tuomas Iisalo is serving as interim head coach, and Kleiman said he will watch how Iisalo can lead the team. "There's realistic expectations. There's not going to be time to install a bunch of things this time of year," Kleiman said. "My expectations are clarity of direction and we'll see what we can do." After this homestand, the Grizzlies will have six games remaining, including road games against teams currently in solid playoff position -- the Denver Nuggets and Detroit Pistons. Three other games are against teams battling for a play-in spot.
