"Rudy Gay had just one wish on that stunning day in July when he signed a five-year, $84 million contract to remain with the Grizzlies.

The 6-8 forward wanted the NBA regular season to start the next day.

"So that I can prove to everybody that I can be better than what I have been," Gay said at the time.

The Grizzlies (3-4) will play their eighth game tonight when they host the Phoenix Suns at FedExForum. Albeit early into his fifth season, Gay clearly wasn't just using bravado the moment when expectations for his play swelled as much as his wallet.

Gay has started the season by equaling his personal best of seven consecutive 20-plus point games, which is a franchise record to open any season. The mark was held by Pau Gasol after he scored 20-plus points five times to start the 2002-03 campaign. Gay also is averaging career highs across the board in scoring (team-high 27.1 points), rebounds (6.9), assists (2.7) and steals (2.14).

Forget calling this a fast start. That's what Mike Conley and Darrell Arthur have put together so far.

Gay has taken a gigantic leap in his approach to the game, and level of efficiency and effectiveness.

"He's playing like a big-time player," Griz coach Lionel Hollins said. "He's taking control, getting the shots he wants, getting to the free-throw line. Especially since Zach (Randolph) has been out, Rudy did a good job of carrying us."

LeBron James, Kobe Bryant and Dwyane Wade are arguably among the top five players in the NBA. They also happen to join Gay as one of seven players (Monta Ellis, Stephen Jackson and Tyreke Evans are the others) currently ranked in the top 20 in both scoring and steals."