As the Memphis Grizzlies navigate the demanding holiday stretch of their schedule, one of the most encouraging developments has been the rise of rookie wing Cedric Coward. What began as a cautious, minutes-managed introduction to NBA life has quickly evolved into a meaningful rotation role. Tuomas Iisalo 's recent comments shed light on why the team is ramping up Coward's role just in time for the festive frenzy.

Iisalo's Ja Morant-less Grizzlies attempt to climb back into the Western Conference's top-six race is experiencing the usual mid-season bumps. In the midst of all the dismissed drama , Coward has earned the coaching staff's trust. The rookie has simply been undeniably good, exceeding expectations since returning from a long injury rehab.

“Ced has had a great start to the

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