Cedric Coward Says Kevin Durant Has Become a Mentor: 'I Talk to Him a Lot' Memphis Grizzlies rookie Cedric Coward has described Kevin Durant as a mentor figure in his first NBA season, crediting the veteran forward for offering guidance and emphasizing the importance of persistence. Coward, the 11th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, shared his experiences with R.org, highlighting how Durant has become a frequent post-game confidant and source of wisdom. The two regularly exchange insights after games involving the Grizzlies and Durant’s team, with Coward expressing confidence that opportunities to learn from other stars like LeBron James and Stephen Curry will arise in the future. Coward’s relationship with Durant has centered on the theme of perseverance, a message he believes has been instrumental in his development. The 22-year-old forward, who averaged 13.6 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 2.8 assists in 62 games this season, noted that Durant’s perspective on the game has helped him navigate challenges. “Honestly, just keep going, no matter what happens,” Coward said. “No matter if you have frustrations with losing, good games or bad games, the work will show above everything.” He added that Durant’s enduring passion for basketball has been a key factor in his success, warning that losing love for the game can lead to decline. Coward, who has drawn comparisons to Kawhi Leonard and Jalen Williams for his shooting mechanics and defensive versatility, acknowledged the pressure of being likened to elite players. However, he stressed the importance of maintaining his individual identity while learning from the best. “There’s only one of each,” he said, referencing Leonard and Jalen Brown. “But at the same time, a lot of people will tell you that it’s a copycat league.#lebron_james #kevin_durant #memphis_grizzlies #stephen_curry #cedric_coward
Celtics, Grizzlies injury reports show one team will be extremely depleted The Boston Celtics will enter Friday’s matchup against the Memphis Grizzlies with a full roster, barring the absence of center Nikola Vucevic, who is set to miss his seventh consecutive game. Meanwhile, the Grizzlies face significant challenges due to a wave of injuries, leaving them severely understaffed. Vucevic, who fractured his right ring finger on March 6, is expected to return to the court between March 27 and April 3. The Celtics initially projected his recovery to take three to four weeks, and with the regular season concluding on April 12, there is potential for him to rejoin the team in time for the postseason. Tatum, meanwhile, has remained available for the past two weeks, having missed just one game since his return to the lineup. The forward has averaged 20.7 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 4 assists per game, serving as the Celtics’ second-leading scorer. The Grizzlies, however, have struggled with injuries throughout the season, with multiple key players sidelined. Among the affected roster members are Kentavius Caldwell-Pope (right pinky finger), Zach Edey (left ankle), Scotty Pippen Jr. (right big toe), and Santi Aldama (right knee). Additionally, Brandon Clarke (right calf strain), Jahmai (left ankle sprain), and Ja Morant (left elbow UCL sprain) are all out. Taj Gibson (right foot soreness) and GG Jackson (left knee soreness) are listed as doubtful for Friday’s game. The Celtics’ current form contrasts sharply with the Grizzlies’ struggles. Boston enters the matchup on a three-game winning streak with a 46-23 record, while Memphis has lost eight of its last 10 games and holds the West’s 11th-best record at 24-44. The teams last met in November, with Boston securing a 131-95 victory.#boston_celtics #jaylen_brown #memphis_grizzlies #nikola_vucevic #cedric_coward
