The Grizzlies went 34-39 this season, and an injury to forward Jaren Jackson Jr. was a factor in the squad just falling short in their playoff push. But in good news as per the Memphis Commercial Appeal, Jackson has confirmed that he will be ready for next season:
Jackson also said his rehab is going well following a torn meniscus in his left knee that ended his season. He and Justise Winslow, who suffered a hip injury before the season restarted, have been working out together and both are ready for next season – whenever it starts.
The NBA hasn’t announced when the 2020-21 season will begin, but Jackson said it hasn’t changed his approach. The Grizzlies waited three months to resume this past season after it was suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic and waiting again won’t be a problem.
“It’s like when you put a kid in timeout and when he finally gets out of timeout, he’s just active in breaking more things than before,” Jackson said.
The vast majority of key Grizzlies players are signed at least through next season, so they don’t need to be particularly busy in free agency this offseason. Jackson as a rookie in 2018-19 put up 13.8 points and 4.7 rebounds per game, shooting 50.6% FG. Last season, his rebounding was almost the same, while his scoring raised to 17.4 PPG, on 46.9% shooting. But beyond stats, he’s the most essential Grizzlies player not named Ja Morant. And it’s good to hear he’s ready to roll when next season does tip off.
