There is an increasing belief that the Grizzlies will move Jaren Jackson Jr. once a Ja Morant deal materializes
As Ja Morant's days in Memphis are likely numbered, there is a significant sense that Jaren Jackson Jr. could be the next one to follow.
Memphis Grizzlies / Schedule
According to Yahoo! Sports' Kelly Iko, there is an increasing belief that the Grizzlies star big man could be moved once a Morant trade has been finally completed.
"Given the level of production Memphis has seen from the likes of Cedric Coward, Zach Edey, Jaylen Wells and Cam Spencer, the organization desires a pivot to youth, sources say. In speaking with rival executives, there’s a growing thought that Jackson — while a stark contrast to Morant and despite Memphis’ insistence on him being a key part of its future — could be the next domino to fall at some point assuming a Morant trade is realized," Iko wrote.
Both Morant and Jackson Jr. served as the Grizzlies' centerpieces following the "Grit 'n' Grind" era of Marc Gasol, Zach Randolph, Tony Allen and Mike Conley Jr.
Since the two were united in 2019, they have led the Grizzlies to success. Memphis secured four postseason appearances and enjoyed a compelling 2021-22 outing in which they tied the franchise's all-time single-season record in wins (56) while making it to the Conference Semifinals.
But for the past couple of years, the Grizzlies have regressed from a competitive standpoint. As Morant struggled with injuries and demonstrated controversial conduct, Jackson didn't show significant growth.
After inking a five-year, $240 million max contract extension from the past offseason, the former Defensive Player of the Year is just averaging 18.5 points, 5.6 rebounds and 1.5 blocks while shooting 47.9 percent from the field this season.
As everybody continues to monitor the Morant trade front, Jackson Jr.'s future in Memphis also has to be observed.
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