Rivals Circling Memphis Grizzlies Star Jaren Jackson Jr

Merlin sees multiple teams circling Memphis center Jaren Jackson Jr. as Ja Morant’s future with the Grizzlies hangs in the balance. Opposing front offices are expected to inquire about the 26-year-old, with "numerous rival executives have been whispering about Jackson all season." Memphis has even begun entertaining offers for Morant, while Jackson remains an elite two-way big, averaging 18.6 points, 5.6 rebounds and 1.4 blocks, and hitting 36.7 percent from three. Merlin intuits a crossroads. Teams like Toronto and Atlanta could be natural fits for Jackson because he is the 2023 Defensive Player of the Year and adds modern spacing. If Memphis opts to rebuild around youth, Jackson becomes the primary trade asset. Expect escalating chatter and targeted calls as the Feb. 5 trade deadline approaches.