3 keys to the Grizzlies’ NBA Playoff push

The return of JJJ

The Grizzlies have done fairly well this season, missing Jaren Jackson Jr., along with co-stars Ja Morant and Jonas Valanciunas being sidelined for 8 and 5 games, respectively. With Morant and Valanciunas back in the starting five, getting Jaren back will give the team some outside shooting and interior defense that it needs.

Currently, the Grizzlies are 26th in three-pointers made, 23rd in defensive rebounds, and 21st in blocks.

Last season, Jaren shot nearly 40% from three, shooting almost seven three-pointers a game, adding 1.6 blocks per game. It is evident that the Grizzlies could desperately use some help in ways that Jaren can make an impact, so his return will be mana from Heaven for this team.

With the return of JJJ, he will help space the floor with his ability to shoot, score inside, and strike fear in driving guards and big men with his length and shot-blocking ability. With the added disruption of shots, this should give the Grizzlies more fast break opportunities and the ability to make other teams force the outside shot.