Jaren Jackson Jr. made one thing clear about his time with the Grizzlies
The Utah Jazz they continue to build momentum after completing a blockbuster trade ahead of 2026 NBA trade deadline. Jaren Jackson Jr. addressed his departure from Memphis Grizzlies after an impressive debut in Salt Lake City.
Retrieved from Grizzly on February 3, Jackson scored 23 points in a 121–93 win over the Sacramento Kings on Wednesday. The game marked the first time in his NBA career that the 2022–23 NBA Defensive Player of the Year suited up for a team other than Memphis, adding to Utah’s aggressive push to reshape its roster for the postseason.
The trade sent Taylor Hendricks, Walter Clayton Jr. and three first-round picks to the Grizzlies. The move reshaped both franchises and sparked speculation about how Jackson felt about leaving the organization that drafted him fourth overall in 2018.
The Athletic’s Tony Jones shared what the Jazz are up to said about his time in Memphis, posting a response on his X (formerly known as Twitter) account after the game.
“I have nothing but love and respect for my time in Memphis and they know it”
The quote marked Jackson’s first significant public comment on trade. His message emphasized appreciation rather than frustration, offering clarity amid swirling narratives about the deal.
For Utah, that tone carries weight. Jackson now pairs with Lauri Markkanen as the Jazz position themselves in the Western Conference playoff race. Speaking respectfully of Memphis, he eliminates potential distractions and reinforces the professional locker room culture.
Meanwhile, the Grizzlies turn to youth and future draft capital, while the Jazz prioritize defensive versatility and scoring. Jackson’s 23-point outing highlighted his two-way impact and instant convenience on the court.
Early returns suggest Utah believes an aggressive gamble will pay dividends as the playoff picture begins to tighten.
Most importantly, Jackson’s comments close one chapter while opening another. He preserved his legacy with the Grizzlies while accepting a new opportunity in Utah. For the Jazz, that clarity strengthens team chemistry and public perception as the season progresses.
2026-02-12 06:00:00
