The debut of the Memphis Grizzlies’ first-round pick is imminent, as he has been conspicuously absent from the bench during summer league play.
Coward joined the Grizzlies in Las Vegas on July 14 to play the rest of the summer league.
The Grizzlies determined that it was better for Coward to continue healing his shoulder in Memphis before arriving to summer league, despite his “mixed feelings” regarding the choice, according to the No. 11 overall pick in the 2025 NBA draft.
He was scheduled to arrive on July 13, but even that was postponed due to a flight delay.
“I’ve been gone too long,” Coward told the Commercial Appeal. “I’m glad I was able to finally make it.”
“I wanted to come and be around the team, but at the same time, I’m here now and that’s all that matters,” he later added.
The Grizzlies have two more scheduled summer league games.
Coward was considered doubtful to play heading into summer league, and that hasn’t changed.
“No, I don’t think we’ll see him (play) during the summer league,” Grizzlies coach Tuomas Iisalo said on July 12.
When Coward was introduced by the Grizzlies, he stated that he feels like he could play.
He reiterated that point again, but the rookie forward seems to have a better understanding of the steps he’ll take before getting game action.
Grizzlies general manager Zach Kleiman said Coward needed to go through contact drills before being cleared to play.
Coward only did 1-on-0 work during his pre-draft workouts.
“It’s definitely still a process that’s ongoing,” Coward said. “To make sure you’re building strength and to make sure you can hit the gas pedal right away into flooring instead of easing in. Honestly, it’s gotten a lot further along than anticipated.”
For now, Coward will have to settle for watching his teammates, and he’s done a lot of that. Coward said he’s watched every minute of every game.
Memphis will be back in action on July 15 against the Golden State Warriors (9:30 p.m., NBA TV).
“I watch and see how I would fit in there and see what I can contribute to the the team,” Coward said. “Honestly, I just love the energy we play with too.”
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