Memphis Grizzlies: Jaren Jackson Jr.’s return leaves time for playoff push

Memphis Grizzlies F Jaren Jackson Jr.’s return is finally coming to fruition

Earlier in the year, the narrative surrounding Jaren Jackson Jr.’s return was heavily based on the idea that he would be returning around the conclusion of the NBA All-Star break. At that point in time, this was the only information available. A not-so-confident general time frame of when he might return.

Even when it was announced in late March that JJJ’s return would come in late April, it didn’t seem very real. At least, for most Grizzlies fans, they knew better than to get excited about a future timetable.

The last time fans got excited, they were let down by a series of injury reports that saw JJJ as “OUT,” followed by an announcement that he wouldn’t return until late April. It seemed like another extension on an injury that already had an excessive recovery time.

But this time, it was real.

Now that he has actually shown up as doubtful on the injury report, it turns his return into a real thing. Jaren Jackson Jr. playing basketball in the 2020-21 season is no longer folklore — he’ll actually be coming back. And he’ll be coming back soon.

But how will his return affect the Memphis Grizzlies’ chances at making a push toward the NBA Playoffs? Here’s how.