Memphis Grizzlies: 3 reasons not to panic about Jaren Jackson’s recent struggles

Jaren Jackson has had some bright spots this season

With all the new faces on the team and players going in and out of Health & Safety protocols, there should be some leeway given to the 22-year old. How many G-League guys has he had to play with now? I’ve lost count since a new one is added every few days.

We should focus on the small victories and be glad that Jackson has played in 96% of the team’s games this season. He’s remained health so far this season (knock on wood).

He’s shown us flashes of what he’s capable of in Morant’s absence, he just needs more time to learn how to play with the soon-to-be All-Star.

He’s been spectacular on defense this season, currently ranked third in the NBA in total blocks this season (69). He trails only Myles Turner of Indiana and Rudy Gobert of Utah.

Jackson’s fouls per game number is starting to dip as well. In the month of October, he averaged 3.7 fouls per game. That number dipped to 3.4 per game in November. At the end of December, his fouls per game number is down to 3.3 per game.

He had five fouls or more in just three December games which is a step in the right direction.