4 Grizzlies who could be surprise starters in 2024-2025

GG Jackson

Rounding out the list is arguably the player that has shown up and shown out most in recent memory in reigning rookie phenom, GG Jackson.

After being drafted 45th overall in the 2023 NBA draft, expectations for Jackson were tempered, knowing that second-round players usually spend a fair amount of time in the G-League or see meager minutes in regular season blowout games.

However, the situation for Jackson couldn't have been any different.

After a slew of injuries to key rotational players had left the Grizzlies roster decimated, the young forward was called up from the Memphis Hustle and found himself logging regular minutes of action right from the jump.

During the 2023-2024 regular season, the 19-year-old played in 48 games and started in 18, while averaging 14.6 points per game along the way. For a fresh second-round pick, this in itself proved to be mightily impressive.

The highlights for Jackson would continue to pile up, as smooth footwork, crafty ball handling, and a soft touch around the rim led to a plethora of attention-grabbing moments which, excitingly enough, extended into this past July's Summer League.

Jackson perfectly encapsulates the energy and grit that fuels Memphis and has proven that he can be an optimal sparkplug for the offense.

Listed at 6-foot-9, the sophomore will likely find himself splitting minutes with other frontcourt staples looking to contribute, but the idea of inserting him into the starting lineup boasts serious intrigue.

While there is always room for improvement, Jackson's willingness to put an immense amount of energy and focus into every minute on the floor portrays him as a strong potential defensive player.

To go along with his natural athleticism and strength, the former second-rounder will be able to learn from two former Defensive Player of the Year winners in Marcus Smart and Jaren Jackson Jr., and potentially blossom into a fierce 3-and-D contributor himself.

While the potential of the Grizzlies frontcourt remains limitless, seeing GG Jackson inserted into a lineup containing Jaren Jackson Jr. and Zach Edey would create a potentially ferocious defensive shadow for other teams to attempt to overcome.