In Memphis they are at a difficult crossroads. The Grizzlies started the season in a very compromised position: with all the forecasts against and the absence of Jaren Jackson Jr. due to an injury that dragged from the Orlando bubble.
However, the bears have completed their second season breaking the previous molds. After falling in the final match for him play-in against Portland last season, in this they have once again emerged as a dangerous rival and are aiming again at the same format with the aim of trying to sneak into the playoff battle.
This time the merit is even greater: the team barely strengthened during free agency, rivals already knew its potential and Jackson Jr.’s injury has only allowed him to play nine games since his return. Things, however, are now a bit different.
The Grizzlies have managed without him thanks to a remarkable collective performance in which the second unit is almost as important as the first, maintaining a very high pace during the 48 minutes. Chemistry, thus, is vital for the proper functioning of the team. And the reinstatement of Jackson Jr., still good news, has not been full so far: three wins and six losses in his recent appearances.
In addition, his history of injuries in the three years he has been in the NBA worries, and a lot, to the board. Three campaigns in which he has already added a total of 101 absences for one reason or another. Thus, the offices have begun to question its long-term continuity in the project, according to journalist Ian Begley.
The Grizzlies exercised the option present in their contract last December rookie. Thus, the interior is guaranteed its 2021-22 campaign under an amount of 9.2 million. However, he can become a restricted free agent in the summer of 2022, at which point the franchise may not be willing to match any offers received.
(Cover photo by Nic Antaya / Getty Images)
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