NASHVILLE ― Memphis Grizzlies coach Tuomas Iisalo isn’t a fan of making wholesale changes just for the sake of change.
Despite a mostly new roster and the Grizzlies opening training camp Sept. 29 at Belmont University’s Crockett Center,the approach remained familiar.
Well, there was one major difference.
The Grizzlies opened training camp with a two-a-day, practicing in the afternoon before returning later for a second session in the evening.
The first practice focused more on installation and creating what Iisalo called “clarity” for the new players. The second practice was more intense and faster-paced, featuring transition work, scrimmaging and defense. Both sessions lasted a little more than an hour, Iisalo said.
It was something the Grizzlies
weren’t able to do last season. With more players healthy and available, Memphis is taking advantage of the extra bodies.
“The biggest difference for us is the health situation at this moment,” Iisalo said. “Last year we had a lot of injuries going into the season at our bigs and our point guards. Really the players who give a lot of structure to the game were missing. This year we’re in a much more fortunate situation, which I would hope helps us in the preparation.”
Coming out prepared
Talk early in camp last season centered on the Grizzlies’ fast-paced philosophy known as “speed kills.”
Things aren’t slowing down this season.
Memphis still plans to center its identity around creating advantages through an up-tempo style of play on both ends of the floor.
Iisalo noted that the players arrived at camp in better shape than they did last season. Scotty Pippen Jr. agreed, pointing out how several Grizzlies players participated in optional workouts leading up to camp with an emphasis on playing fast.
“We knew we had to be in tip-top shape, just knowing on both ends of the floor we’re going to have to play hard and play fast,” Pippen said.
Zach Edey’s practice limitations
Grizzlies center Zach Edey has been fully cleared, but that doesn’t mean the team will immediately throw him into every portion of practice.
Edey participated in the afternoon session before being limited in the evening practice.
During the media viewing portion of the evening session, Edey was seen working on hook shots around the rim. He is not yet fully cleared to participate in two-a-days, but he is expected to practice Sept. 30.
“He’s a very tough individual and someone who is always looking to push through,” Iisalo said. “That’s not always in his or the team’s best interest. We’ve talked a lot about trust and communication with him and making sure we’re on the same page.”
“It will take some time for him and has taken some time,” Iisalo later added. “His commitment has been incredible. His summer, the amount of work he’s put in with our medical staff has been really admirable. He’s put himself in a really good situation.”
Cam Boozer’s first taste
Cam Boozer got his first taste of official Grizzlies practices Sept. 29.
He’s already experienced many of the firsts that come with being an NBA rookie, but the first practice was another milestone.
Boozer is expected to play a major role for the Grizzlies this season. He has worked out with teammates in unofficial settings, but Sept. 29 marked his first opportunity to practice with the full roster.
“It was just fun to get out there and compete, get everyone in the gym together,” Boozer said. “It was a lot of fun. Hopefully we continue to have a really competitive practice throughout the week and get ready for the preseason.”
Damichael Cole is the Memphis Grizzlies beat writer for The Commercial Appeal. Contact Damichael at damichael.cole@commercialappeal.com. Follow Damichael on X, formerly known as Twitter, @DamichaelC.
This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: Grizzlies make adjustment, limit Zach Edey in first training camp action
