After news broke of his massive contract extension, the Memphis Grizzlies announced that Jaren Jackson Jr. would require offseason surgery.
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MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE - FEBRUARY 25: Jaren Jackson Jr. #13 of the Memphis Grizzlies reacts after a three point basket against the Phoenix Suns during the first half at FedExForum on February 25, 2025 in Memphis, Tennessee.
The Memphis Grizzlies have made it clear they are trading Ja Morant by placing him on the trade block, but another All-Star on the roster may be out soon too. Reports have indicated that Memphis will listen to offers on Jaren Jackson, even though he’s not someone they’re actively shopping. Opposing teams around the league would offer more for Jackson than Morant due to stronger defense and Morant’s decline this season.
NBA insider Mike Scotto shared that two Eastern Conference contenders have interest in making a play for Jackson:
“Jackson Jr. remains a player the Memphis Grizzlies want to build with, according to an ESPN report. However, that stance hasn’t stopped various teams across the league from registering interest in Jackson Jr, including the Detroit Pistons and Boston Celtics, league sources told Hoops Hype.”
Scotto and Hoops Hype named both the Boston Celtics and Detroit Pistons as teams hoping to acquire Jackson if the Grizzlies listen to offers. Both teams currently hold the top two seeds in the Eastern Conference, despite the third-place New York Knicks being the betting favorite to make the NBA Finals. Most upper-tier East teams should be looking to improve their rosters with the conference wide open this season.
Why Boston Would Want Jaren Jackson
The Celtics have had a great season so far to remain a threat in the East, but most expected them to take a few steps back this year. Jayson Tatum was expected to miss most of the season due to injury and has yet to return to the lineup. Boston also traded veteran starters Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis for better cap flexibility moving forward.
Jackson would be the perfect replacement for Porzingis as a shot blocking big man with incredible athleticism. The Celtics are looking for a defensive center or power forward to join the core of Tatum and Jaylen Brown. Jackson is a two-time All-Star and could fit exactly what they desire.
Boston’s draft picks are rarely impressive due to their strong regular season play, and they lack young prospects on the roster. Memphis would have to settle for role players and hope that future draft compensation will benefit them by the time those picks are transferred.
Why Detroit Would Want Jaren Jackson
Detroit is arguably the biggest overachieving team in the NBA so far. Most forecasted the Pistons to have a guaranteed playoff spot, but they’ve been the top Eastern Conference seed for most of the season.
Improvement is still needed for Detroit to make the most out of their regular season greatness and compete for an NBA Championship by the postseason. Michael Porter is one name on the Pistons’ rumored wish list, but Jackson makes even more sense.
The front court of Jackson and Jalen Duren would give Detroit a strong advantage over other teams in the postseason. Pistons management would likely have to send multiple first round draft picks and a younger talent like Jaden Ivey. The price may be worth it since the East is there for the taking with no dominant teams.