Zach Edey 2024 NBA Draft: Player comparison & projected draft pick for Purdue big man
Zach Edey captured the nation's imagination when his Purdue team went deep in the NCAA Tournament, reaching their first Final Four since 1980. Edey, a 7"4' center, is one of the most accomplished college players in this year's draft, having won National Player of the Year in each of the previous two seasons.
In his four seasons at Purdue, Edey averaged 18.1 points, 9.6 rebounds and 1.7 blocks. In his final two seasons with the Boilermakers, he was as dominant as any big man in the NCAA.
His size and appearance have drawn obvious comparisons with Boban Marjanovic, although Edey is believed to have had a much higher ceiling than the veteran NBA star when he entered the league with the Spurs in 2015.
More optimistic projections compare Zach Edey to Jonas Valanciunas, who has carved out a decent career as a role player in the NBA.
Let's compare Zach Edey to Jonas Valanciunas ahead of the 2024 NBA Draft.
Zach Edey vs Jonas Valanciunas: Strengths
With his powerful offensive presence in the post, Edey's massive frame is complemented by an elevated sense for the game and agility, which help him stay available for interior feeds from his playmakers.
On the defensive end, Edey is a one-man wall who can stifle opposition bigs using his physicality and wear them down throughout the game.
These talents are similar to those of Valanciunas, who has made a name for himself owing to his touch around the post and strength on defense down low.
Zach Edey vs Jonas Valanciunas: Weaknesses
Much of Edey's weaknesses also stems from his massive size. He lacks the footwork elite offensive big men have and does not have enough athleticism to switch over to the crafty guard when put up against other shooting big men. He may be limited to 10–15 minutes of action when faced against centers who like to play away from the basket.
Jonas Valanciunas is shorter than Edey at 6'9 but even he has struggled in his NBA career to contain big men who can pick and pop.
Zach Edey's other NBA comparisons and draft projection
Along with Jonas Valanciunas and Boban Marjanovic, Zach Edey has drawn comparisons with Clippers center Ivica Zubac, former NBA champion Zaza Pachulia and even with eight-time All-Star Yao Ming.
Edey would be an ideal fit for the Denver Nuggets, who have struggled for years to find a backup for Jokic. Drafting and playing Edey would help the Nuggets stay afloat in the minutes that Jokic sits.
However, the Nuggets have the 28th overall pick and there is a possibility that Edey may be drafted at No. 19, as most mock drafts suggest.