Memphis Grizzlies Rookie Watch - Cedric Coward

Cedric Coward’s path to becoming a member of the Memphis Grizzlies wasn’t the most direct or conventional. Growing up in Fresno, California, Coward moved on to attend Willamette University, a Division III school in Salem, Oregon. Coward’s average of 19.5 points and 12 rebounds drew the attention of Eastern Washington, a smaller Division I school from the Big Sky Conference. After two seasons of honing his craft with the Eagles, earning a spot on the All-Big Sky First Team, Coward finished his college career playing just six games for the Washington State Cougars before a shoulder injury ended his season. 

Averaging 17.7 points, 7 rebounds, and 3.7 assists in his shortened senior season, the Grizzlies' scouts had seen enough to warrant trading the 16th pick, a future first-round pick, and two future second-round picks for the 6’6”, 206-pound forward whom they hope can help the team return to the postseason. This type of investment indicates that the Grizzlies have a significant amount of confidence in the rookie to help fill the void left by Desmond Bane’s move to the Orlando Magic.

However, earning immediate playing time won’t be automatic for the rookie. With Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Jaylen Wells, Vince Williams Jr., and John Konchar all battling for minutes at the off-guard/small forward position, Coward must come into training camp as healthy as possible to avoid falling down the depth chart. 

It is likely that Tuomas Iisalo, who is entering his first full season as the team’s head coach, will use Coward as part of the second unit, taking advantage of his ability to play multiple positions. A 59% field goal rate and 38% clip from downtown, plus his willingness to crash the glass, make Coward a perfect fit for the Grizzlies’ pace-and-space system.

Realistic projections for Coward’s first year should be 15-17 minutes off the bench with 6-8 points, 3-4 rebounds, and a couple of assists. While the stats will be beneficial, what the Grizzlies will need most from the rookie is his energy, versatility, and grit, something that has been a calling card for Memphis’ team culture.