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NBA All-Star Weekend: Predicting Jaren Jackson Jr’s Rising Stars Challenge Output

By Christian Dudley

MEMPHIS, TN - FEBRUARY 12: Jaren Jackson Jr. #13 of the Memphis Grizzlies looks on during the game against the San Antonio Spurs on February 12, 2019 at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2019 NBAE (Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images)
MEMPHIS, TN - FEBRUARY 12: Jaren Jackson Jr. #13 of the Memphis Grizzlies looks on during the game against the San Antonio Spurs on February 12, 2019 at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2019 NBAE (Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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Memphis Grizzlies Jaren Jackson Jr NBA All-Star Weekend Rising Stars Challenge
Jaren Jackson Jr will be representing the Memphis Grizzlies during the Rising Stars Challenge at NBA All-Star Weekend (Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images) /

Take Two

Christian Dudley: “While it would be common to be conservative in predicting the stats of a 19-year-old rookie one one of the NBA’s biggest stages, this is Jaren Jackson Jr. that we are talking about. He is a freak prototype of a professional baller in today’s league — the unicorn type if you will.

I’m pulling for a big night from Jaren as the Memphis Grizzlies enter NBA All-Star Weekend as an underdog yet again. There is very little representation by the Grizz this year, but it could be a case of quality over quantity if Jackson Jr. goes off.

Prior to taking a wild guess on a stat line by Jaren Jackson Jr., it is important to note the high-scoring outcomes in recent years of the Rising Stars Challenge. For instance, last season saw a 155-124 final score with Team World being the victor. In 2017, the sum of points took a dip with a 150-141 win by the World.

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There could be some high-scoring individuals in this year’s Rising Stars Challenge, which absolutely has to be taken into account with any prediction. When considering Jaren’s advanced skill set for his age, 28 points is absolutely attainable considering his knack for gaining early post position, elevated accuracy on shots in the painted area, capability to run the floor, and stretch ability on long-range shot attempts.

As far as some of the intangibles are concerned, Jackson Jr. is not an over-the-top rebounder, plus he will be the guy that the guards often look to find in the offense, so I am going with six rebounds and two assists. Being as defense is his strong suit, three steals and six blocks is not outlandish to expect from the Grizzly rookie.

As fans of the Memphis Grizzlies have learned through 58 appearances by Jaren Jackson Jr. in the 2018-19 regular season, this guy is the real deal. He is the complete package. He has had some head-turning performances through the season’s first half, but this could be his new peak.

Next. Memphis Grizzlies: Analyzing the Jaren Jackson Jr, Jonas Valanciunas Pairing. dark

Regardless for the outcome, it will be interesting to watch Jaren simultaneously compete against the game’s best young frontcourt players. Though he is young, his talent is unquestionable. Plus, this should only be the very beginning for what could be an illustrious, NBA All-Star Weekend-filled career for the Michigan State product. Friday night will be fun for Grizz Nation.”

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