Memphis Grizzlies: How Jaren Jackson Jr.’s return will help Ja Morant

Memphis Grizzlies PG Ja Morant hasn’t had as much room to work in the paint

Something that isn’t as quantifiable on the stat sheet as 3-point percentage that the Grizzlies have struggled with is the spacing down low. With Jackson Jr. out, Memphis sacrificed a lot of their 3-point shooting abilities.

It’s not such a direct impact, but it’s noticeable if you’ve watched every Grizzlies game so far this season.

Ja Morant has had little to no room to work in the paint. Rather than attack the basket, he often kicks the ball out or forces a pass to an unprepared Jonas Valanciunas. It’s nobody’s fault, just something that happens when you don’t have enough threatening players in the paint.

Opposing teams know that if they can close down the area near the basket, the Grizzlies won’t be able to consistently score the basketball. But JJJ’s return will heal this.

WIth JJJ back, there will be two noticeable changes in the paint. First of all, he can move out to the perimeter to create more space down low. If Jackson doesn’t sneak out to the perimeter, opposing big men have to stay disciplined and guard him. This will create plenty of space for Morant to find easier finishes in the paint.

Ja Morant has already been dangerous as a driving scorer, so you can imagine what he’ll be capable of once his co-star returns.