In a significant move to strengthen their roster, the Memphis Grizzlies have locked in Jaren Jackson Jr. with a five-year contract extension worth $240 million. The announcement came during the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas, confirming the team’s dedication to Jackson as they aim for a deeper playoff run in the upcoming season.
Jackson’s Impact and Career Performance with Memphis
At just 23 years old, Jackson has proven himself as a vital contributor to the Grizzlies, delivering strong performances throughout the last season. He appeared in 74 games, averaging 22.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, two assists, 1.2 steals, and 1.5 blocks per game. His efficient shooting included 49 percent from the field and 38 percent from three-point range. Despite Memphis facing an early playoff exit, Jackson’s efforts on both ends of the court underscored his role as a key player and emerging leader.
Over five seasons with the franchise, Jackson has taken the court 407 times, maintaining averages of 18.5 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks over nearly 29 minutes per game. His postseason experience spans 27 games, where he has produced 15.7 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per contest. Selected fourth overall in the 2018 NBA Draft after an impressive freshman year at Michigan State, Jackson is now one of the highest-earning players on the team, expected to make close to $50 million annually under the new deal.
Grizzlies’ Strategy Focused on Competing in the Western Conference
This extensive contract extension for Jackson reflects Memphis’s clear intention to compete at a higher level in the highly competitive Western Conference. The team views Jackson as a cornerstone around which they can build a championship-caliber squad. His consistent contributions and defensive prowess provide optimism for the franchise’s prospects in upcoming seasons.
As Memphis continues to grow its competitive roster, Jackson’s secured future offers stability and leadership that are crucial for their ambitions to overcome past playoff disappointments and contend seriously for a conference title.