The Grizzlies need leverage over other bidders and salary cap room to squeeze in Jaren Jackson Jr.'s looming All-NBA level contract.

When the Memphis Grizzlies took big man forward Jaren Jackson Jr with the fourth overall pick in 2018, the front office likely didn’t envision him potentially being the main reason they’re second in the Western Conference standings.

Drew Hill writes, “Former Defensive Player of the Year Jaren Jackson Jr. blocked two shots. He said before the game he was going to defend the full length of the court, then made good on that promise.