Grizzlies Risk Losing Jaren Jackson Jr After Ja Morant Drama

Tim MacMahon suggested the Grizzlies are moving to rebuild "around Jaren Jackson Jr.," but league chatter wonders if Jackson is on the same page. Jackson signed a five-year, $240 million extension this summer despite toe surgery, has appeared in 37 of 39 games, and is averaging a career-low 18.5 points. With Ja Morant limited by injuries and likely to be moved, Memphis faces a real roster pivot. Merlin sees a team at a crossroads. Investing heavily in Jackson gives the Grizzlies a defensive anchor and clear identity if he embraces it. If chemistry or health falter, Memphis may shop pieces before the Feb 5 deadline. The upcoming trip to Berlin vs Orlando will be a small test of which path the club prefers.