Grizzlies forward/center Jaren Jackson Jr. will be available to play on Friday in a showdown vs. the East-leading Cavaliers, the team announced today (Twitter link).
As William Guillory of The Athletic tweets, head coach Taylor Jenkins initially told reporters that Jackson, who has missed the past five games due to an ankle sprain, would be a game-time decision. The big man went through his pregame warmups without any setbacks, clearing the way for him to return to action.
Jackson was initially said to be “week-to-week” as a result of his sprained ankle, so the fact that he’s back just 10 days after that announcement is good news for the Grizzlies, who are battling for playoff position. The club is currently No. 2 in the Western Conference at 42-24.
While the Grizzlies played well during Jackson’s absence, winning four of five games, they’ll certainly be happy to have their leading scorer and defensive anchor back in the lineup. Memphis has a +9.0 net rating this season when the 25-year-old is on the court compared to a +1.4 mark when he’s not.
Jackson’s return also bodes well for his award eligibility. He needs to play at least 20 minutes in seven more games to meet the 65-game minimum and qualify for All-NBA and Defensive Player of the Year consideration. He’s considered a strong candidate for both awards, either of which would make him eligible for a super-max contract extension this offseason.
Grizzlies always manage the payroll and luxury tax perfectly.
If they offer 5 years $300 million contract to Jackson Jr. and 4 years $60 million to Luke Kennard, they are still like $20 million below the luxury tax between 2025-2028
That has always been Memphis’s downfall Always playing it safe with the money
I would have traded Bagley and Konchar for a larger expiring contract. Waive that contract. Sign two veterans on the bench that have championship experience. Or traded Konchar for a expiring contract
The road Cavs completely dominated the fully healthy Grizzlies, up 21 after 3 quarters and resting their starters in the 4th and no starter playing even 32 minutes.
Ja had 44 on 17-22 shooting and team highs 8 reb 7 ast, but it’s clear they’re a tier below the top team in the league this season.