Grizzlies Pressed to Address Jaren Jackson Jr. Situation…
The Memphis Grizzlies are heading into a critical offseason with numerous uncertainties surrounding their roster. After a disappointing postseason sweep, the franchise appears poised for significant changes.
One major development already occurred when Memphis parted ways with former head coach Taylor Jenkins just prior to the playoffs. Tuomas Iisalo has since been appointed as the full-time head coach, as the organization seeks a measure of continuity. However, one of the most pressing matters facing the team is the future of star forward Jaren Jackson Jr.
Jackson Jr. is eligible for a substantial contract extension this offseason, yet there is speculation that the Grizzlies could opt to trade him instead. Fortunately for Memphis, Jackson Jr. was not named to any of the three All-NBA teams for the 2024–25 season—a development that significantly affects contract negotiations. Because of this omission, Jackson Jr. is now ineligible for a supermax deal, which would have guaranteed him a much larger payout.
As noted by Dan Favale of Bleacher Report, this outcome eases some financial pressure on the team. “Although the Grizzlies are no longer obligated to offer him 35% of the salary cap, they would still have faced pressure to provide 30%. Now, Memphis can shift its focus toward renegotiating and securing a more favorable extension,” Favale explained.
Should the team decide to retain Jackson Jr., the cost will be considerably lower than if he had earned supermax eligibility. However, this also levels the playing field for rival teams, who could now match any contract Memphis offers, making it easier for them to lure him away.
This past season, Jackson Jr.—a two-time All-Star—posted averages of 22.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, 1.2 steals, 2.0 assists, and 1.5 blocks per game. His on-court chemistry with Ja Morant is well documented, but the Grizzlies’ repeated struggles in the postseason may prompt the front office to reconsider its core roster.
The decisions Memphis makes this summer will be pivotal, and Jaren Jackson Jr.’s future will be at the heart of those deliberations. Whether through a contract extension, trade, or a move in next year’s free agency, Jackson Jr. is expected to draw significant interest from across the league.
