Jaren Jackson Jr. Faces Pressure to Perform as Grizzlies Struggle

The Memphis Grizzlies faced a significant challenge on March 4, 2024, as they competed against the Denver Nuggets without key players Ja Morant and Zach Edey. This game underscored the expectation placed on Jaren Jackson Jr., who recently received a contract extension that includes a lucrative $52 million salary in its final season. Despite these high expectations, Jackson Jr. struggled to make an impact, leaving fans and analysts questioning his performance during critical moments.

Jackson Jr. was unable to carry the Grizzlies against the formidable Nuggets and their star player, Nikola Jokic. His performance was marked by a disappointing team-worst rating of -27 during his time on the court. While he managed to grab six rebounds, which is slightly above his average, he missed seven of his eight three-point attempts. This lack of production is concerning, especially given the significant salary associated with his new contract.

The game reflected a broader issue for the Grizzlies, as they found themselves relying on the contributions of less experienced players. Jock Landale shone during the match, scoring 26 points and securing 10 rebounds in just 30 minutes, helping to keep the team competitive with a mere -1 rating while he was on the floor. Landale’s performance came on a minimum contract of under $3 million, raising questions about the reliance on a player earning significantly less than Jackson Jr.

With Jackson Jr. underperforming, the Grizzlies also saw strong showings from Cam Spencer and Santi Aldama, further highlighting the disparity in contributions among the team’s players. For a team with championship aspirations, this situation is far from ideal. While discussions surrounding the Grizzlies have largely centered on Morant’s recent struggles, it is crucial for the team’s success that Jackson Jr. begins to fulfill his potential consistently.

Looking ahead, the Grizzlies will face the New Orleans Pelicans on March 6, 2024. This matchup presents a unique challenge for Jackson Jr., as he will likely contend with Zion Williamson and promising rookie Derik Queen. The Grizzlies will need Jackson Jr. to step up, particularly if Edey remains sidelined due to injury. For Memphis to thrive amid adversity, their star player must elevate his game and deliver the performances expected of him.