Grizzlies’ Jaren Jackson Jr. Trade: Impact on Ja Morant and NBA Draft
The recent trade between the Memphis Grizzlies and the Utah Jazz has set the stage for a pivotal shift in both franchises. The Grizzlies have traded 2023 NBA Defensive Player of the Year, Jaren Jackson Jr., in exchange for a substantial offer that includes three future first-round picks and a package of players that could reshape their roster.
Trade Details
On February 3, 2026, the Grizzlies finalized a significant deal with the Jazz. The details of the trade are as follows:
- Grizzlies Receive:
- Walter Clayton Jr.
- Kyle Anderson
- Taylor Hendricks
- Georges Niang
- Three future first-round draft picks
- Jazz Receive:
- Jaren Jackson Jr.
- John Konchar
- Jock Landale
- Vince Williams Jr.
This trade is notable for the Grizzlies as they aim to rebuild. The 28.8 million dollar trade exception created in this deal is the largest in NBA history, showcasing the potential for future trades.
Impact on Ja Morant’s Future
Ja Morant has been integral to the Grizzlies’ success since he was drafted second overall in 2019. However, with Jackson’s departure, questions loom regarding Morant’s future in Memphis.
Despite being a franchise centerpiece, Morant has struggled this season, averaging 19.5 points per game. The uncertainty surrounding his relationship with the organization has fueled speculation about a potential trade.
Possible Outcomes for Morant
Two primary scenarios could play out for Morant following this trade:
- Rebuild Around Morant: The Grizzlies might choose to retain Morant and use their newfound draft capital to support him. This strategic move could prioritize building a young, competitive roster around Morant.
- Trade Morant for Future Assets: Alternatively, Memphis could look to trade Morant, capitalizing on his value before he becomes a free agent in 2028. This would allow the franchise to dive fully into a rebuild phase by acquiring further assets.
Grizzlies’ Draft Capital
With the recent trade, Memphis now possesses an impressive collection of 13 first-round picks over the next seven years. This trajectory sets them up alongside teams like Brooklyn and Oklahoma City for the most draft capital in the NBA.
The picks include:
- 2026: Own 1st-round pick; more favorable pick between Magic and Suns
- 2027: Own pick; top-4 protected from Lakers; most favorable from Cavaliers, Timberwolves, or Jazz
- 2028: Own 1st-round pick
- 2029: Own pick; top-2 protected swap with Magic
- 2030: Own pick; unprotected from Magic
- 2031: Own pick; unprotected from Suns
- 2032: Own 1st-round pick
This trade not only impacts the Grizzlies’ current roster but sets a clear direction for their future, dependent on how they choose to navigate the Morant situation. Filmogaz.com will continue to track the developments as Memphis adapts to this new phase.