If the Memphis Grizzlies are serious about resetting their roster, the rest of the league should be paying attention-especially the Atlanta Hawks.
Memphis has a clear path to stockpiling assets, but it's not going to happen through Ja Morant. His trade market is quiet, and for good reason.
But if the Grizzlies really want to shake things up and build for the future, moving Jaren Jackson Jr. might be the play. And if that door opens, the Hawks should be first in line.
Now, Atlanta hasn’t exactly been itching to make a splash for a big man midseason. But Jackson isn’t just any frontcourt piece.
He’s a two-time All-Star, a versatile defender, and a perfect long-term fit next to rising star Jalen Johnson. This isn’t just about adding talent-it’s about building a foundation.
Let’s break down why this potential move makes so much sense for the Hawks, both in the short term and beyond.
A Frontcourt Fit That Makes Sense-Right Now
Atlanta isn’t one move away from dominating the East-but in a conference that’s wide open, they don’t have to be. What they do have is a budding star in Johnson, and when the right pieces are around him, the Hawks have looked like a team that can do real damage.
Take, for example, the lineups featuring Johnson alongside Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Kristaps Porzingis. That trio has outscored opponents by 8.4 points per 100 possessions, according to NBA.com. That’s elite territory-only the reigning champion Oklahoma City Thunder have posted a better net rating this season.
Now imagine swapping Porzingis for Jackson: a younger, more switchable defender who can still stretch the floor and protect the paint. Jackson brings all the upside of a modern big-rim protection, floor spacing, and mobility on the perimeter-but adds more consistency and long-term value.
And this version of Jackson? He’s not even at last year’s level yet.
Just a season ago, he was putting up 22.2 points per game, hitting 2.0 threes at a 37.5% clip, and swatting 1.5 shots a night. That production earned him both an All-Star nod and a spot on the All-Defensive Second Team. If a change of scenery-especially to a more competitive, better-structured team-helps him rediscover that form, the Hawks could be unlocking a game-changer.
A Long-Term Play With Serious Upside
The beauty of a Jackson trade for Atlanta is that it doesn’t have to be a “win-now or bust” move. He’s just 26 and under contract through at least the 2028-29 season. That’s a rare combination of age, production, and contract control-exactly the kind of player you want to build around.
Even if the Hawks don’t make a deep playoff push this season, Jackson would be a core piece moving forward. He complements Johnson’s game in all the right ways, whether it’s spacing the floor, finishing above the rim, or anchoring the defense.
He can guard multiple positions, switch onto guards, and still be a force inside. That kind of versatility is invaluable in today’s NBA.
And here’s the kicker: Atlanta might not even have to part with their top trade chip-Zaccharie Risacher-to make it happen. If they can land Jackson without giving up the French phenom, this becomes a no-brainer.
The Bottom Line
Jaren Jackson Jr. checks every box for the Hawks. He helps them compete now, fits their timeline for the future, and doesn’t require them to mortgage their most valuable asset. That’s a rare opportunity-and one Atlanta shouldn’t pass up if Memphis decides to make him available.
In a league where windows open and close fast, the Hawks have a chance to add a high-impact player who fits their identity and future. That’s the kind of move that can change a franchise’s trajectory.