The Grizzlies overcame a 21-point deficit to defeat the Chicago Bulls and improve their record to 2-1 in the 2024 NBA preseason. The expected absences of Ja Morant, Jaren Jackson Jr. and Marcus Smart were joined by Desmond Bane, Santi Aldama and Luke Kennard due to a layoff.

Brandon Clarke returned but didn't make the starting lineup, playing just 13 minutes as the team fielded a starting lineup of Scotty Pippen Jr., John Konchar, Jaylen Wells, Jake LaRavia and Zach Edey. What followed was a mixed bag, but the team's performance sparked some interest among their 2024 draft picks.

The team finally got Zach Edey more involved in the offense and he showed off some of the skills that made him a dominant force in college. Edey shot 5-10 from the field and finished with 15 points and eight rebounds, including five offensive rebounds. He also blocked three shot attempts on defense to showcase his ability to protect the paint.

In particular, it was the hook shot that got the fan base excited, as he acted almost automatically every time he had the opportunity to throw his protector into the basket, and his position to rebound the basketball on missed shots was after the last one An unforgettable sight. Accidents of the season in this area. The next step will be for the team to find ways to utilize these skills once the roster reaches full strength.

The Grizzlies may have found a gem in second-round rookie Jaylen Wells. He's a true all-rounder, especially from the three-point line, and showed some playmaking ability as he finished second on the team with six assists. He also led the team in scoring with 24 points on 50% shooting, including the game-winning three pointer with 9.1 seconds left.

He makes a strong case for cracking the rotation sooner than expected if he maintains this level of development and comfort in the NBA game. He's the perfect compliment to fill the three-and-D role, available for minutes while Vince Williams Jr. remains out.

The Grizzlies recorded another 21 turnovers, increasing their preseason total to 66 in three games (an average of 22 per game). No matter who is on the field, whether they are the primary players, the backup players, or the back-squad players, the Grizzlies officially have a turnover problem in this new offensive system that needs to be addressed quickly.

In the last two friendlies, the team's main focus must be on losing possession, as opening the season with two away games could be very dangerous territory for a slow start.