The Grizzlies got Ja Morant to agree to a max, potentially super-max, contract extension.
But Memphis’ young core won’t begin next season intact.
Jaren Jackson Jr. will miss the start of the year.
Event the short end of that timeline will he Jackson missing the start of the regular season.
The Grizzlies and Jackson can afford to be patient.
Memphis has a good team with, most contributors returning, strong chemistry. The Grizzlies want to peak in the playoffs and can take their foot off the gas a little in the regular season. Memphis has the depth to survive Jackson’s absence with Steven Adams, Brandon Clarke, Xavier Tillman, Jake LaRavia and David Roddy.
Jackson has the security of a large contract extension kicking in this year.
Still, health remains a concern for the 22-year-old. For the Grizzlies to reach their potential, they’ll need the sweet-shooting, smothering-defensive big on the floor.
