5 Young players the Grizzlies should develop, 1 to give up on

Develop: G.G. Jackson

The 45th overall pick in 2023 got a surprising opportunity as a rookie. Nobody expected the 6’9 forward to play, but injuries opened up minutes. Jackson did not disappoint. The teenager scored 20 points in his first extended run and proved it was not a fluke.

Over his final 42 games, Jackson averaged 16.4 points and 4.5 rebounds in 28.7 minutes per game. He shot 43.4 percent from the field and 35.8 percent on his 3-point tries. Those were impressive numbers for a rookie second-round selection.

The 19-year-old must round out his game. He is strictly a scorer at this stage and may struggle to find a role if the Grizzlies are healthy this season. Memphis wants Ja Morant, Desmond Bane, and Jaren Jackson Jr. to take the majority of the shots, but the franchise may have uncovered a hidden gem in G.G. Jackson.

The 6’9 forward is set to make $6.5 million over the next three seasons combined. It is a bargain if he fills any consistent role for the franchise.

The Memphis Grizzlies have a plethora of young talent on their roster. Can they help the franchise get back into contention? Memphis believes they are one of the best teams in the West. The Grizz need the right pieces around their stars and getting these young players to fill the needed roles is the ideal scenario.