Despite being plagued by injuries this season, the Memphis Grizzlies sit third in the Western Conference with a 21-10 record. They look like a strong contender capable of challenging other top teams in the playoffs. With key players returning from injury, such as Ja Morant Marcus Smart, and Zach Edey, who is making an immediate impact as a rookie, the Grizzlies are off to a fantastic start. A big part of their success has been the outstanding play of Jaren Jackson Jr., who has flown under the radar.
Jaren Jackson Jr. is Key to the Grizzlies’ Championship Aspirations
Jaren Jackson Jr. has had an elite season on both sides of the ball. He’s averaging 21.5 points per game with a field goal percentage of 50.1. What he’s doing on both sides of the court has made him a serious candidate for being an All-Star and Defensive Player of the Year.
Valuable Experience Gained Last Season
Jaren Jackson Jr. had a unique opportunity last season to become the number one option on the Grizzlies due to Ja Morant’s suspension and the injuries they suffered. It turned out to be a valuable experience for him, allowing him to realize his potential and how impactful he could be with a more aggressive mindset. His ability to attack the basket has improved dramatically in the past season.
He attacks the paint with layups and floaters, using both hands to finish. Jackson also shoots a respectable 35 percent from three-point range. This combination of skills makes him a versatile and challenging player to defend. He excels in pick-and-roll and pick-and-pop situations. Additionally, his ability to pump fake and finish at the rim makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses.
Offensive Growth and Evolution
In the past, Jackson Jr.’s value as a defensive player was much more significant than his offensive contributions. However, in the past couple of seasons, he has taken his offensive game to another level. He is now averaging 7.7 more points per game compared to his rookie season. Once seen as primarily a defensive cornerstone, he has transformed into one of the most elite two-way big men in the league.
Defensive Dominance Continues
As the 2022-23 Defensive Player of the Year, JJJ’s defensive dominance is well-known. This season, he averages 1.6 blocks per game, ranking 8th in the league. He also averages 2.5 steals per 48 minutes, which is an impressive statistic for a big man. Moreover, he ranks 10th in defensive win shares. His length and athleticism make him an excellent pick-and-roll defender. Overall, JJJ’s one-on-one defense and basket protection are critical to the Grizzlies’ success.
A Balanced Frontcourt for the Grizzlies
With Jaren Jackson Jr., Zach Edey, Santi Aldama, Jay Huff, and Brandon Clarke, the Grizzlies boast a balanced and deep frontcourt. Each player brings a unique skill set that complements the others. This well-rounded talent is a key reason for the Grizzlies’ success, and it all starts with JJJ’s star play.
A Contender for the Western Conference Crown
The Memphis Grizzlies will be major contenders in the Western Conference playoffs this season due to their depth and talent. Jaren Jackson Jr.’s growth as the team’s primary option last season further strengthens their playoff hopes. While they aren’t being praised in the mainstream media, the Grizzlies check all the boxes as a legit title contender.
