The Memphis Grizzlies are navigating a pivotal stretch in their franchise timeline, and while Ja Morant’s name continues to circulate in trade chatter, the message coming out of Memphis is clear: Jaren Jackson Jr. isn’t on the table.
Despite the swirl of speculation and teams making their interest known, league sources consistently report that Memphis is intent on keeping Jackson and building around the 26-year-old big man. That hasn’t stopped teams from calling-most notably the Pistons and Celtics-but so far, the Grizzlies aren’t budging.
And it’s easy to see why Jackson draws attention. He’s not just a shot-blocking force on defense-he’s also evolved into a legitimate floor-spacer, knocking down over 37% of his threes on solid volume across the past two seasons. That kind of two-way versatility is hard to come by, especially in a league increasingly reliant on bigs who can stretch the floor.
For Detroit, the fit makes a lot of sense. They’ve got a young frontcourt with Jalen Duren and Isaiah Stewart, but neither offers the kind of offensive spacing Jackson brings. The Pistons have been actively seeking a big who can open up the floor, and Jackson checks that box.
Boston’s situation is even more pressing. After losing Al Horford and Luke Kornet in free agency and moving Kristaps Porziņģis, there’s a clear need up front. A player like Jackson could slide in and immediately stabilize the Celtics’ interior, giving them rim protection and spacing in one package.
Still, despite the interest, there’s no indication Memphis is seriously entertaining offers. Jackson is locked in through at least 2029, and unless something seismic happens-like a Morant trade that triggers a larger reset-the Grizzlies seem committed to keeping him in the fold.
Speaking of Morant, his situation is murkier. According to league sources, teams like the Heat, Bucks, Kings, Raptors, and Pelicans have expressed interest, but it’s more of a “buy-low” curiosity than a full-court press. The market hasn’t been hot, and that’s not surprising given the circumstances.
Morant is currently sidelined with a right calf injury and missed Thursday’s game in Germany. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver has expressed hope that Morant will be available for Sunday’s game in London, citing the league’s desire to showcase its stars on the global stage. But even if he suits up, it won’t necessarily shift the trade dynamics.
The tone around the league remains cautious. ESPN previously described Morant’s market as “tepid,” and that sentiment still holds. Teams are intrigued, but they’re not rushing in with blockbuster offers.
So where does that leave Memphis? In something of a holding pattern.
They’re listening on Morant but not pushing him out the door. They’re holding firm on Jackson, treating him as a foundational piece.
One situation is fluid. The other, for now, is firmly rooted.
As the February 5 trade deadline approaches, the Grizzlies are a team to watch-not because they’re guaranteed to make a move, but because they’re at the crossroads of two very different paths. One centered on stability. The other, uncertainty.