Jaren Jackson Jr. Faces Pressure Amid Grizzlies’ Struggles
The Memphis Grizzlies are grappling with a slew of injuries as the season unfolds, yet one of their star players, Jaren Jackson Jr., has largely managed to stay on the court. Having participated in 25 of the team’s 27 games, Jackson is averaging 17.8 points and 5.2 rebounds per game. Unfortunately, this marks his lowest scoring output since the 2021-22 season.
Concerns About Jackson’s Performance
Despite his availability, concerns about Jackson’s contributions have surfaced. Analyst Grant Hughes highlighted the disappointment surrounding Jackson’s performance this year. “Twenty-six is way too early for an age-related decline, and Jaren Jackson Jr. has missed just two games this season, suggesting he’s healthy,” Hughes noted. “Still, he’s been one of the more disappointing star-level players in the league, which creates additional challenges for a Memphis team running short on reliable cornerstones.”
These struggles are particularly concerning given the context of his teammate Ja Morant’s situation. Morant has missed significant playing time and has struggled with his shooting, particularly from beyond the arc, where he’s hitting under 20%. While Morant’s issues might seem more pressing, the Grizzlies made a hefty investment in Jackson, giving him a five-year, $205 million extension. This decision underscores the expectation that he would emerge as a foundational piece for the franchise, especially amidst uncertainty surrounding Morant’s future.
Jackson’s Recent Performances
In light of these mounting expectations, Jackson’s performance has shown signs of both promise and inconsistency. In a recent matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves, he delivered a standout performance with 28 points and 12 rebounds, helping secure a vital road victory. Prior to that, he put up an impressive 31 points against the Los Angeles Clippers, contributing to another win.
However, Jackson’s ability to adapt to playing alongside Zach Edey has been a work in progress. With Edey frequently in and out of the lineup due to his own injuries, Jackson has faced challenges in maintaining his rhythm and effectiveness. The Grizzlies are leaning heavily on him to step up offensively, particularly with both Edey and Morant sidelined.
Looking Ahead for Memphis
As the Grizzlies prepare for their next game against the Washington Wizards, scheduled for 7 p.m. CT at the FedEx Forum, the stakes are high. Jackson’s potential to elevate his game could prove critical for Memphis as they navigate this tumultuous stretch. Fans will be tuned in to see if he can build on his recent performances and solidify his status as a reliable star during these challenging times.
