Gregory

Jackson

Aldama dealt with a left shoulder issue in October, and it’s popping back up. If he is forced to miss Sunday’s game, GG Jackson and Olivier-Maxence Prosper could return to the rotation to make up for Aldama’s absence.

Jackson was unavailable for Friday’s loss to the Lakers, but his absence had a limited impact on the Grizzlies’ rotation. That will likely remain the case on Sunday, even with the Grizzlies suspending point guard Ja Morant for a game due to conduct detrimental to the team.

Initially questionable for Friday’s game, Jackson has been ruled out due to an illness. His absence does not impact fantasy basketball, as he isn’t guaranteed to be in the rotation when healthy.

Jackson underwent surgery in early July to address a turf toe injury in his right foot. While he’s still on track to miss the beginning of the regular season, Friday’s announcement by the Grizzlies is a step in the right direction. Jackson is expected to return in four to six weeks, so he may not miss much time during the regular season. With Zach Edey (ankle) and Brandon Clarke (knee) out, the Grizzlies will rely even more on Santi Aldama to begin the season, with GG Jackson potentially having more opportunities to prove himself.

Jackson has had no issues scoring in Summer League. He has 47 points and six triples through two games, and at the end of this one, he hit a shot at the buzzer that would have forced overtime if his foot wasn’t on the line. It was an anti-climactic finish at the replay monitor, but it was still another impressive scoring night from Jackson.

Jackson had a strong rookie season but he only was available to play in 29 games in year two. It was a subpar second year, but the 20-year-old is entering his third season in the NBA as a high-level scorer. It isn’t surprising that he is scoring like this in Summer League, and it should continue as long as they choose to include him in the rotation.

Jackson was away from the Grizzlies for Game 1, but he will be available on Tuesday. Jackson played a total of two minutes in Memphis’ two play-in games, but he may have played a large role on Sunday if he was available due to the lopsided score. His return likely won’t level for the playing field for Game 2.

It’s unknown how long Jackson will be away from the Grizzlies, but he will not be available for Game 1 on Sunday. His absence does not significantly impact the Grizzlies, as GG has not played consistent rotation minutes.

The Grizzlies have rested their entire starting five and a few key reserves for Sunday’s game, as they’re locked into Tuesday’s 7 vs. 8 matchup in the play-in tournament. Of the five starters, Williams and Jackson offer the highest ceilings for active fantasy leagues, but Stevens, Bagley and Spencer are worth a look in deeper formats.

Aldama and Kennard will sit on Sunday like a slew of other key Grizzlies players. Cam Spencer, Lamar Stevens, and GG Jackson will get an opportunity to shine on Sunday against Dallas.