The Golden State Warriors are in a tough spot this season, and with the trade deadline inching closer, the front office is clearly exploring ways to shake things up. One name that’s surfaced in recent chatter? Jaren Jackson Jr., the Memphis Grizzlies' 26-year-old big man and former Defensive Player of the Year.
On paper, Jackson checks a lot of boxes for what Golden State needs right now. He’s a 6-foot-10 forward with legitimate two-way potential-someone who can stretch the floor offensively and protect the rim defensively. That’s a rare blend, and it's exactly the kind of profile that could help address some of the Warriors’ most glaring issues: size, athleticism, and a reliable third scoring option behind Stephen Curry and (on his good nights) Klay Thompson.
Even in what's been a down year by his standards, Jackson is still putting up solid numbers-18 points, 5.3 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 1.2 blocks per game. He’s shooting nearly 48% from the field and just under 36% from deep, which is more than respectable for a big man. That kind of production, especially from someone who can space the floor and finish around the rim with both hands, could give the Warriors’ 21st-ranked offense a much-needed lift.
Defensively, there’s no question Jackson has the tools to make a difference. Golden State currently ranks 22nd in blocks per game, and while that’s not the only metric that defines team defense, it does speak to their lack of vertical presence around the rim. Jackson led the league in blocks in both 2022 and 2023, and if he can tap back into that form, he’d instantly raise the Warriors’ defensive ceiling.
But-there’s always a but-there are real complications here, starting with the financials. Jackson signed a four-year, $205 million extension with Memphis this past offseason.
That’s a hefty price tag for a player whose current production doesn’t quite match the contract. It’s not that Jackson isn’t valuable-he is-but committing that kind of money means you need him to be a cornerstone, not just a complementary piece.
That’s a big swing for any team, and especially for a Warriors squad already carrying several large contracts.
It’s also worth noting that the Grizzlies, for all their struggles this year, have actually performed better in stretches when Jackson isn’t on the floor. That’s a tough pill to swallow for a player in his supposed prime, and it may explain why Memphis could be open to moving him despite his age and pedigree.
Now here’s where things get tricky. To make the money work, Golden State might have to consider including Draymond Green in any potential deal.
That’s not just a basketball decision-that’s a locker room, culture, and identity question. Green has been the emotional heartbeat of this dynasty, and while his on-court impact has fluctuated, his value to the team goes far beyond the box score.
Trading him would be a seismic move, and it’s hard to imagine Curry or head coach Steve Kerr signing off on it lightly.
There’s also a scenario where the Warriors could land Jackson without parting ways with Green, which would create a formidable defensive duo in the frontcourt. But even then, Jackson’s contract looms large.
It’s the kind of financial commitment that forces a team to ask: is this guy the guy? Or just a guy?
Right now, Jackson feels more like the latter. And while his skill set is undeniably intriguing-especially for a team in need of a jolt-there’s enough risk tied to his deal and current form that a trade still feels like a long shot.
The Warriors are clearly looking for answers. Whether Jackson is the right one remains to be seen.