The Memphis Grizzlies' preseason hasn't been a walk in the park, but there's a silver lining: rookie Cedric Coward is rapidly becoming impossible to overlook. The team has faced a string of losses, but amidst the challenges, Coward is emerging as a bright spot. His journey to the NBA hasn't been straightforward, and his recent performance is a testament to his resilience.
Coward's final college season was cut short due to a shoulder injury, requiring surgery last year. He was only cleared to play recently, which makes his progress even more remarkable. His NBA debut against the Pistons showcased glimpses of his defensive prowess, but his offensive game needed some work. He scored a single point on a challenging 0-7 shooting performance.
However, the last two games have revealed why the Grizzlies, and many others, were so high on him during the draft.
Coward's Growth: A Game-by-Game Breakdown
Coward's development has been a gradual ascent. He received his first start against the Boston Celtics, where his shooting struggles persisted. He finished the game with 4-13 from the field and 0-5 from beyond the arc. However, the fourth quarter was a different story, with Coward scoring nine of his 15 points on 3-7 shooting.
His performance included six rebounds and two steals, demonstrating his defensive versatility. A key highlight was his ability to draw fouls, leading to easy points at the free-throw line, where he shot a perfect 7-7. This ability to get to the line is crucial, especially for a young player.
In his third game against the Atlanta Hawks, Coward, coming off the bench, started slowly, going 1-4 through the first three quarters. But the fourth quarter saw him explode for 13 points, showcasing his offensive potential for the second game in a row. He shot 6-7 from the free-throw line and even made his first three-pointer of the preseason.
What Does This Mean for the Grizzlies?
The Grizzlies have to be encouraged by Coward's performance, despite the initial shooting struggles. He has shown an ability to bounce back quickly from setbacks. This resilience is a valuable trait. And this is the part most people miss... Considering he hasn't yet played alongside key players like Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr., the future looks promising. Easier scoring opportunities will likely present themselves when these stars return.
Beyond the Stats: A Glimpse of What's to Come
Outside of Morant, the Grizzlies haven't had many players who consistently get to the free-throw line. But Coward, along with newcomer Ty Jerome, has shown a knack for using physicality to earn free throws. Now, Coward faces his first road games, a new test the team believes he's ready for.
But here's where it gets controversial... The team is hoping that his performance will continue to improve as he gets more experience.
What do you think about Coward's performance so far? Do you see him as a future star for the Grizzlies? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
