Memphis Grizzlies: Why JJJ’s massive contract extension is a bargain

The Memphis Grizzlies and star forward Jaren Jackson, Jr. have come to terms on a long-term, lucrative extension, according to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski.

Jaren Jackson, Jr. and the Grizzlies have agreed to a 4-year deal with a contract valued at $105 million, making him one of the most lucrative signings in franchise history.

The deal was struck just hours before a 6 PM ET deadline, at which point negotiations would have to be put on pause until the conclusion of the 2021-22 NBA season.

The Memphis Grizzlies are getting a bargain with Jaren Jackson, Jr.’s new contract extension

There has been considerable debate among Memphis Grizzlies fans whether or not the team should extend Jaren Jackson right now and if they did, should it be for a max-level contract?

Jackson’s 2018 NBA Draft classmates that have gotten their rookie contract extensions have been far more expensive than what the Grizzlies will be paying Jackson.

Michael Porter, Jr. of the Denver Nuggets re-signed with the team for five years and a contract valued at $207 million, according to NBA.com.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder recently signed for five years and $172 million.

Wendell Carter, Jr. of the Orlando Magic just signed a deal for four years and $50 million but doesn’t have the same level of productivity or ceiling as Jackson.

The fact that the Memphis Grizzlies have secured Jackson for around $100 million is a great deal. There are worries that he won’t be able to produce at the level he was pre-injury and pre-surgery, but during the 2021 NBA preseason, Jackson began to squash those worries.

In the last preseason game of 2021, Jackson erupted for 29 points and drilled 7 three-pointers, all while pulling down 7 rebounds and dishing out 2 assists.

The Memphis Grizzlies kick off the 2021-22 regular season Oct. 20 at 8 PM ET.