Analyst doubtful over Purdue star Zach Edey's NBA stardom prospects: "Probably not unless he finds a time machine"

In an era where collegiate stars making the transition to the NBA stay at the NCAA level for a year or two at the most, back-to-back National Player of the Year Zach Edey is hoping to shatter that mold.

After becoming a focal point for the Purdue Boilermakers, even leading them to an NCAA Finals appearance in his final season, the 7-foot-4 Center declared for the 2024 NBA draft, but his draft stock remains in question.

One analyst from Rivals.com, Rob Cassidy, believes Zach has the potential to surpass everyone's expectations. However, he stands by the belief that the Canadian is coming into the league later than anticipated.

"Do I think Edey will be an NBA star? Probably not unless he finds a time machine to take him back to 2022, but he's capable of outperforming expectations."

In his final 2 seasons with the Boilermakers, Edey was at the peak of his powers, improving year upon year. After tallying 22.3 points per game and 12.9 rebounds to go along with 2.1 blocks per game in his junior year, he would improve to 25.2 ppg and 12.2 rebounds, while adding a career-high 2.2 bpg.

Where could Zach Edey end up being drafted?

With the NCAA tournament coming to a close in heartbreaking fashion for the tallest player in Big Ten History and Purdue as a whole, talks of the NBA draft soon began with the reigning National Player of the Year projected to go low in the draft.

While a list slew of reasons might have contributed to his low standing as a prospect, rumors have continued to swirl about specific teams having a liking for Edey since then. In particular, the Miami Heat are reportedly expected to ve a major contender for the Zach Edey crown. Heat fans, however, are split about him joining South Beach.

On his part, the most prominent reports have signaled that Edey would be most interested in joining the Memphis Grizzlies. The Grizzlies roster should be strengthened next season with the returns of Ja Morant and Steven Adams.

In Adams, Edey finds a 10-year NBA veteran with a similar playstyle which could serve to accustom him to the league and its physicality. While explaining his journey at the Draft Combine and how different it was from his time at Purdue, he revealed how a meeting with the team was in a play once the day's proceedings got over.

Where do you think Zach Edey will go in the 2024 NBA draft? Let us know in the comments below.