The Memphis Grizzlies are reportedly considering a major trade involving Jaren Jackson Jr., linked to a potential move to the New York Knicks before the start of the 2025-26 <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/basketball/nba/”>NBA season. This development follows Memphis’ offseason trade of shooting guard Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic, which has fueled speculation about other roster changes.
The New York Knicks recently reached the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time in 25 years and seem to be looking to strengthen their frontcourt, making Jackson a potentially attractive target.
A Hypothetical Trade Proposal Between Memphis and New York
A mock trade scenario under discussion would send Jaren Jackson Jr. to the Knicks in exchange for power forward OG Anunoby and two first-round draft picks. This swap involves exchanging starting big men from each team’s lineup.
The Knicks might opt to include a bench player, possibly shooting guard Miles McBride, along with a single first-round pick instead of two picks to Memphis. However, preserving New York’s bench depth by trading two first-round selections appears to be the preference in this proposed deal.
How Jaren Jackson Jr. Could Improve the Knicks’ Defense
New York’s frontcourt features Karl-Anthony Towns, a strong offensive center but one who has been criticized for defensive shortcomings. Jackson, on the other hand, won the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award for the 2022-23 season and has twice led the league in blocks per game.
According to Sai Mohan from Heavy Sports,
The Knicks ranked in the bottom half of the league in most defensive metrics last season, including points allowed in the paint and points allowed off pick-and-roll coverages,
adding,
A lot of those deficiencies were due to Towns’ inability to defend well.
Bringing Jackson aboard could address New York’s rim protection issues and bolster a defense that struggled in key areas last season.
Why Memphis Might Consider Trading Jaren Jackson Jr.
Last season, the Grizzlies reached the playoffs but were swept in the first round by the Oklahoma City Thunder. Memphis has since traded away its 26-year-old starting shooting guard, Desmond Bane, signaling possible further roster moves.
Although Bane’s departure might be just the first step, no one would be surprised if bigger changes followed, including a potential trade involving Jackson. If Memphis chooses to rebuild, Jackson and starting point guard Ja Morant stand out as the team’s prime trade assets to attract significant returns.
Impact on Fantasy Basketball and Player Roles
Beyond defense, Jackson has been a consistent scorer and rebounder, valuable traits for fantasy basketball managers. Still, his offensive role might diminish somewhat with the Knicks, as Karl-Anthony Towns is New York’s primary offensive center.
Last season, OG Anunoby was the Knicks’ third-leading scorer, averaging 18 points and 4.8 rebounds on 13.9 field goal attempts per game. Meanwhile, Jackson posted 22.2 points and 5.6 rebounds with 16.4 shot attempts per game in Memphis.
Should Memphis acquire Anunoby, he might see increased opportunities, especially if the Grizzlies also decide to move on from Ja Morant, potentially opening a pathway for Anunoby to become a focal point.
Potential Consequences for Both Teams Moving Forward
If completed, this trade would represent a strategic reshaping of Memphis and New York’s core rosters before the 2025 season, with the Knicks enhancing their defensive presence and the Grizzlies acquiring valuable draft assets and a versatile forward.
The move could strengthen New York’s chances of building upon their recent postseason success, while Memphis may look to retool around new personnel and future prospects. Both franchises’ decisions regarding key players like Jackson and Morant will be pivotal in shaping their competitive outlook.