Memphis Grizzlies: 3 reasons not to panic about Jaren Jackson’s recent struggles
The Memphis Grizzlies are playing fantastic basketball as of late, earning wins over the Lakers, Suns, Spurs in Nets in consecutive games.
Grizzlies superstar Ja Morant has been playing at an All-Star level since returning from injury, even earning Western Conference Player of the Week for the week of Dec. 27 through Jan. 2.
The Grizzlies went 3-0 during the week and Morant averaged 34.7 points, 6.7 rebounds, 4.7 assists and 1.33 steals in 34.0 minutes while shooting 55.7% from the field (39-70 FG) and 80.0% from 3-point range (12-15 3P), according to a press release from the team.
The only strange part about this streak has been the play from the perceived number two player, Jaren Jackson, Jr. He’s been struggling to find ways to make an impact on offense since Morant’s return from injury.
Should Memphis Grizzlies fans be worried about recent play from Jaren Jackson?
Bench players like Brandon Clarke, Killian Tillie and Xavier Tillman have all had multiple games in which they’ve outplayed Jackson. Heck even Steven Adams, who we all had very minimal expectations at the beginning of the season, has been a boon for the team.
Jackson has had a difficult time finding ways to be productive with Morant on the floor, which is a worrisome trend.
Take a look at Jackson’s statistics this season:
- Before Morant’s injury (18 games): 14.9 ppg, 5.6 rpg, 40% field goal, 35% from three (39-114)
- In Morant’s absence (11 games): 19.1 ppg, 4.7 rpg, 48% field goal, 33% from three (20-61)
- Since Morant’s return (7 games): 14.1 ppg, 5.7 rpg, 31.3% field goal, 22% from three (8-36)
It’s still early in the season, but there is no question that Jackson is still trying to find his footing as direct support to Morant.
Jaren is totally capable of playing at the level we all expect him to— we saw flashes of it when Morant was out:
- 26 pts and 7 rbs vs Dallas
- 25 pts and 6 at rbs at Toronto (4 for 7 from three)
He’ll get there.