The Memphis Grizzlies are at a crossroads, and the league knows it. With Ja Morant reportedly on the trade block, front offices around the NBA are circling, wondering if Memphis might be willing to go even further and shake up its foundation. But if you're hoping Jaren Jackson Jr. is next in line, don’t hold your breath.
Despite the noise - including some speculative chatter from a former agent-turned-podcaster - the Grizzlies have shown no real interest in moving Jackson. In fact, all signs point to Memphis doubling down on the 2023 Defensive Player of the Year as a cornerstone of their future. He’s just 26, under contract through at least 2029, and offers the kind of two-way versatility that’s hard to come by in today’s game.
That hasn’t stopped teams from making calls, though. According to league sources, both the Detroit Pistons and Boston Celtics have reached out to express interest in Jackson. And on paper, it’s easy to see why.
Detroit has a promising young frontcourt with Jalen Duren and Isaiah Stewart, but they’ve been on the lookout for a big who can stretch the floor. Jackson fits that mold perfectly - since the start of last season, he’s been hitting 37.3% of his threes on five attempts per game. That kind of range from a shot-blocking big is rare, and it would add a whole new dimension to the Pistons’ offense.
Boston’s interest also makes sense. The defending champs lost Al Horford and Luke Kornet in free agency, and they dealt Kristaps Porzingis in a move that left a void in their frontcourt. Jackson could help fill that gap immediately, bringing elite rim protection and spacing to a team still in win-now mode.
But for now, Memphis appears committed to keeping Jackson in the fold - especially if Morant is on the move. Trading both stars would signal a full-scale rebuild, possibly centered around younger pieces like Cedric Coward, Zach Edey, and Jaylen Wells. That’s a direction the Grizzlies haven’t committed to yet, but it’s one that could come into clearer focus as the February 5 trade deadline approaches.
As for Morant, his market is complicated. Multiple teams - including the Heat, Bucks, Kings, Raptors, and Pelicans - have reportedly shown some level of interest.
But it’s not exactly a bidding war. According to league insiders, most of those clubs view Morant as a potential buy-low option rather than a centerpiece acquisition.
There’s been some buzz that Morant and his camp see Miami as an ideal landing spot, but the Heat are reportedly keeping their powder dry. Their eyes are on a bigger prize: Giannis Antetokounmpo, should he become available this summer. That dream scenario is influencing Miami’s approach to any deal that would cost them future flexibility - including one for Morant.
League-wide, interest in Morant has been described as “tepid,” and that seems to track. Sacramento doesn’t see him as a timeline fit and isn’t willing to part with draft capital.
Milwaukee is a long shot. And while some execs have floated the Nets or Rockets as dark horses, there’s no indication either team is seriously in the mix.
Morant’s current injury situation doesn’t help matters. He’s sidelined with a right calf issue and missed the NBA’s inaugural regular season game in Germany on Thursday. With rumors swirling about his desire to leave Memphis, the league is hoping he can suit up soon - especially with the Grizzlies set to play in London on Sunday.
“I know he has a tremendous following globally,” NBA commissioner Adam Silver said before Thursday’s game in Berlin. “And I wish he were able to play tonight. I’m still holding out hope he’ll be able to play when we’re in London on Sunday.”
The Grizzlies are keeping their cards close to the vest, but one thing is clear: the league is watching closely. Whether Memphis chooses to retool around Jackson or hit the reset button entirely, the next few weeks could shape the franchise for years to come.