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Cedric Coward has emerged as one of the top rookies with the Memphis Grizzlies, and coach Tuomas Iisalo has been encouraged by his development this season.
Coward is averaging 13.4 points, 6.4 rebounds and 2.8 assists while shooting 34.34% from 3-point range in 51 appearances this season with the Grizzlies. He is fourth among all first-year players in scoring and double-doubles (7).
The 6-foot-6 forward was highly touted out of Washington State because of his overall skill set, versatility and length, boasting a 7-foot, 2 1/4-inch wingspan. Those characteristics have enabled him to affect games at a high level for the group.
"I mean, at his size, he is able to do some intriguing things," Iisalo said. "He is a good on-ball creator. You’ll see him go full court, get the rebound, which he is very good at for his position, (and) push down in three seconds. He’ll get to the rim on the other end and finish. Athletically, defensively, he makes some really rare plays for a 2-guard where he is coming from the weakside and blocking centers that are trying to finish inside. (He) also has a developing skill set as a 1-on-1 defender."
Coward became a full-time starter for the team in November and held that position until dealing with a right knee injury that has cost him 11 out of the last 15 games. He has showcased his versatility and poise at a high level, helping deliver productive outings.
The 11th overall pick on Dec. 30 became only the fifth rookie in franchise history to record at least 25 points and 15 rebounds in a game, joining the likes of Pau Gasol, Marc Gasol and Shareef Abdur-Rahim. He is one of two rookies with multiple 15-rebound games this season.
Coward has fit in well with the Grizzlies this season and has earned the trust of his teammates and coaches. He has stepped up and will look to close out the year on a high note.
Note: Ky Carlin of Sixers Wire contributed to this story
This article originally appeared on Rookie Wire: Grizzlies news: Cedric Coward commended for 'intriguing' skill set
Continue reading...
Coward is averaging 13.4 points, 6.4 rebounds and 2.8 assists while shooting 34.34% from 3-point range in 51 appearances this season with the Grizzlies. He is fourth among all first-year players in scoring and double-doubles (7).
The 6-foot-6 forward was highly touted out of Washington State because of his overall skill set, versatility and length, boasting a 7-foot, 2 1/4-inch wingspan. Those characteristics have enabled him to affect games at a high level for the group.
"I mean, at his size, he is able to do some intriguing things," Iisalo said. "He is a good on-ball creator. You’ll see him go full court, get the rebound, which he is very good at for his position, (and) push down in three seconds. He’ll get to the rim on the other end and finish. Athletically, defensively, he makes some really rare plays for a 2-guard where he is coming from the weakside and blocking centers that are trying to finish inside. (He) also has a developing skill set as a 1-on-1 defender."
Coward became a full-time starter for the team in November and held that position until dealing with a right knee injury that has cost him 11 out of the last 15 games. He has showcased his versatility and poise at a high level, helping deliver productive outings.
The 11th overall pick on Dec. 30 became only the fifth rookie in franchise history to record at least 25 points and 15 rebounds in a game, joining the likes of Pau Gasol, Marc Gasol and Shareef Abdur-Rahim. He is one of two rookies with multiple 15-rebound games this season.
Coward has fit in well with the Grizzlies this season and has earned the trust of his teammates and coaches. He has stepped up and will look to close out the year on a high note.
Note: Ky Carlin of Sixers Wire contributed to this story
This article originally appeared on Rookie Wire: Grizzlies news: Cedric Coward commended for 'intriguing' skill set
Continue reading...
