Purdue’s Matt Painter Explains Why Grizzlies Center Zach Edey Can Be NBA All-Star

Purdue’s Matt Painter Explains Why Grizzlies Center Zach Edey Can Be NBA All-Star

 

Zach Edey’s journey from college dominance at Purdue to an NBA roster spot with the Memphis Grizzlies has captured the attention of basketball fans and analysts alike. While some scouts remain skeptical about his NBA ceiling, his former college coach, Matt Painter, sees a much higher trajectory — even All-Star potential.

In a recent interview, Painter passionately defended Edey’s ability to succeed at the highest level. “People have always doubted Zach, and he’s proved them wrong every step of the way,” Painter said. “He’s not just big — he’s skilled, smart, and more athletic than people realize.”

At 7-foot-4 and nearly 300 pounds, Edey is an imposing physical presence. In college, he dominated with back-to-the-basket scoring, elite rebounding, and efficient shot-blocking, earning back-to-back National Player of the Year honors. Painter believes those skills will translate — especially in a league that’s seen a recent resurgence in dominant big men.

“Look at guys like Nikola Jokic and Joel Embiid,” Painter said. “The league is trending toward bigs who can pass, anchor defenses, and score efficiently. Zach can do all of those things — maybe not like Jokic, but in his own way.”

Painter emphasized Edey’s intelligence and adaptability as reasons for his potential stardom. “Zach’s basketball IQ is off the charts. He processes information fast and is incredibly coachable. He’ll learn the NBA game and adjust to its speed and spacing.”

Critics often question Edey’s mobility and whether he can defend in space, especially in pick-and-roll situations. Painter acknowledges the concern but counters with Edey’s steady improvement and work ethic. “People used to say he couldn’t stay on the floor in college. He ended up playing over 30 minutes a game and rarely fouled. He’s going to keep improving defensively — he’s already quicker laterally than he was two years ago.”

With the Grizzlies, Edey enters a strong developmental system alongside stars like Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. Painter sees the fit as ideal. “That Memphis organization knows how to develop players. Playing with Morant will open up so many easy looks for Zach. And with Jaren there, Zach won’t be asked to do too much on defense right away — just rebound, contest shots, and play his role.”

Painter also noted Edey’s underrated passing and decision-making as a reason he could thrive in an NBA offense. “He doesn’t force things. He makes the right play. If teams double him, he finds the open man. That’s a trait that gets you minutes — and respect — in the NBA.”

Ultimately, Painter’s belief in Edey stems from firsthand knowledge of his mindset. “Zach’s not satisfied with just making it to the league. He wants to be great. He puts in the work, he listens, and he’s relentless.”

While it may take time, Painter is confident in his former star’s NBA future. “People are going to be surprised. But I won’t be. Zach Edey can absolutely be an NBA All-Star — and I think one day, he will be.”