Grizzlies Receive Positive Injury Update on 6-Foot-6 Forward
The Memphis Grizzlies have received promising news about one of their top young forwards, Cedric Coward.
Last season, the Grizzlies secured the eighth seed in the Western Conference, making it past the play-in tournament but falling to the eventual champion, the Oklahoma City Thunder, in the first round. This led them to focus on the 2025 NBA Draft, where they traded up with the Portland Trail Blazers to secure the 11th pick. Their eyes were set on Washington State wing Cedric Coward. Despite having a chance to play for Duke, Coward chose to enter the draft after receiving positive feedback, eventually becoming a lottery pick.
Coward Cleared for All Activities
Coward missed the NBA Summer League due to a shoulder injury, which was reported on July 4. This left Grizzlies fans without the chance to see their new acquisition in action. However, they had plenty of time to watch his college highlights.
The good news is that Coward is now fully recovered and “100% cleared for all basketball activities.” He will be ready for training camp and is eager to get started after missing the Summer League. “It’s like letting the wolves out,” Coward said, expressing his excitement.
After his injury setback, Coward is now set to hit the court and prepare for the upcoming preseason games in early October.
How Coward Fits with Memphis
Known as a strong scorer, Coward averaged 17.7 points, 7 rebounds, and 3.7 assists for Washington State last season, shooting 40% from beyond the arc. This will be valuable, especially when paired with Ja Morant in a wing-side pick-and-roll. With Jaren Jackson Jr. either controlling the paint or stretching to the three-point line, Coward should complement these stars by filling the gaps where needed. While his immediate impact as a rookie may take time to materialize, the potential is clear.
NBA analyst Kevin O’Connor described Coward as an A-plus pick for the Grizzlies, suggesting he “might be the steal of the draft.”
Though the 21-year-old has yet to play an NBA game, his upside is evident. With the departure of Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic, Coward has an opportunity to compete for a starting spot and contribute on the wing. If given the right environment to develop, Coward could become a key piece of the Grizzlies’ core, helping push them toward contention.
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