Jaren Jackson Jr. struggles as Grizzlies fall to Nuggets without Morant
Jaren Jackson Jr. entered the season with high expectations, particularly following the Memphis Grizzlies’ decision to extend his contract through 2029. The deal, valued at $52 million for the final year, reflects the organization’s belief in his potential as a franchise cornerstone. However, the pressure is now on Jackson to step up, especially in light of Ja Morant’s absence from the lineup due to suspension.
A Tough Night Against the Nuggets
On Monday night, the Grizzlies faced a formidable opponent in the Denver Nuggets, led by the reigning MVP, Nikola Jokic. Despite the absence of Morant and a brief exit from rookie Zach Edey due to a head injury, Memphis managed to stay competitive. Yet, Jackson’s performance fell short of the star-level play required to lead his team in such challenging circumstances.
Jackson’s struggles were evident throughout the game. He logged a game-worst plus-minus of -27 in just under 29 minutes of play. While he contributed 16 points on 7-of-16 shooting, his inability to connect from beyond the arc was glaring. Jackson missed seven of his eight three-point attempts, a stark contrast to the shooting prowess he is known for. Additionally, he pulled down only six rebounds—just above his season average—further highlighting the disconnect between his performance and the expectations set for him.
Impact of Injuries on Team Dynamics
The Grizzlies entered this matchup needing a strong performance from Jackson, especially in light of their current injury woes. With Morant sidelined, the team looked to Jackson to elevate the roster and provide the leadership necessary to secure a win. However, the ball movement seemed stagnant, and the overall chemistry on the court appeared disrupted when Jackson was involved, as noted by observers.
As Memphis continues to navigate the challenges posed by injuries and absences, the focus will remain on Jackson to deliver the kind of standout performances that justify his contract extension. The Grizzlies need their star player to adapt and thrive under pressure if they hope to maintain competitiveness in the West.
