GG Jackson II continues to be a major bright spot despite the Grizzlies struggling mightily since the new year. With the Grizzlies entering the first offseason of their rebuild, there are difficult decisions to make with roster construction. Despite this fact, the Grizzlies cannot make the obvious mistake of trading GG Jackson II this summer.
It has been an incredible bounceback third season for GG Jackson II with the Grizzlies. Previously selected 45th overall in the 2023 NBA Draft, Jackson II burst onto the scene as a rookie and ended up landing on the NBA All-Rookie Second Team despite the Grizzlies being ravaged with injuries.
Unfortunately, his second season was challenging, and he struggled to regain his rhythm after returning from a Jones fracture in his right foot suffered before the season. However, Jackson II had a strong Summer League campaign and showed major signs of growth as a player.
After spending some games with the Memphis Hustle early in the season, GG Jackson II earned more opportunities with the Grizzlies and has thrived since. Given his strong performances, the Grizzlies should not just avoid the idea of trading him, but they should also offer him an extension this summer.
His improvements can certainly translate to winning
First, before diving into other improvements, GG Jackson II has given the Grizzlies a very valuable scoring punch as of late. Since the February 9 loss to the Golden State Warriors, GG Jackson II has scored in double-digits every game. Per game, Jackson II is averaging 17.5 points, 5.3 rebounds, 1.9 assists, and 1.4 stocks since the All-Star break.
However, his improved skillset is why he deserves to stick around long-term. GG Jackson II is improving as an off-ball scorer and is making a leap as a perimeter defender. His defensive playmaking has been a valuable asset for a team that has been very undermanned since the trade deadline. Most importantly, one of the most significant areas that differentiates GG Jackson II from other players on the team is how strong of a finisher he is at the rim.
Jackson II's ability to contribute in a team setting paired with his significant upside should not be something the Grizzlies willingly move on from as they begin to rebuild.
The Grizzlies would instantly regret trading him
One of the ideas that is being floated around as of late is to include GG Jackson II in any possible Ja Morant trade package. This is a bad idea for multiple reasons. First, GG Jackson II is still just 21 and has shown arguably the most upside of any of the Grizzlies' young wings. Second, Ja Morant's trade value is the lowest it has ever been, and it would even be more logical to attach draft capital.
For example, even a 2027 first-round pick (via Lakers) in what is projected to be a weaker draft class would be a better asset to include in any Ja Morant trade. The Grizzlies need high-caliber offense from their forwards, and sacrificing a young GG Jackson II who has yet to play his best basketball would be counterproductive to the rebuild.
The Grizzlies have plenty of key decisions to make with the roster this offseason. But GG Jackson II has made one major decision for the team much easier. This summer is the perfect time to reward his development and offer him an extension.