Jaren Jackson Jr. linked to the Pistons, the Celtics are trading amid Ja Morant’s uncertain future

As the NBA trade deadline approaches next month, uncertainty about the future of Ja Morant has set Memphis Grizzlies under increased spotlights across the league. In that background, a star ahead Jaren Jackson Jr. has also emerged in recent reports as a potential trade target for multiple teams, including Detroit Pistons and the Boston Celtics.

HoopsHipe’s Michael Scotto reported Friday that he is in Memphis remains committed to the build-up around Jackson, outside interest has continued to grow as the Morant trade talks continue.

“Amid I Morant In trade talks, Jaren Jackson Jr. remains the player the Memphis Grizzlies want to build with, according to an ESPN report,” Scotto wrote. “However, that stance hasn’t stopped various teams around the league from registering interest in Jackson Jr., including the Detroit Pistons and Boston Celtics, league sources told HoopsHipe.

Scotto added that Jackson’s contract only increases his appeal around the league.

“Looking forward, Jackson Jr. is owed $205 million over the next four seasons, including a player option for the 2029-30 season,” Scotto wrote. “Having an All-Star prospect and defensive-caliber player under team control during his prime will appeal to many teams around the league. If Morant is indeed traded before the deadline, expect more teams to call Jackson Jr. more heavily.”

Pistons, Celtics pursue Jaren Jackson Jr. as Grizzlies face growing uncertainty

Jackson, 26, continues to be one of the Grizzlies’ most reliable two-way contributors during a difficult season for the franchise. The former Defensive Player of the Year is averaging 18.8 points, 5.5 rebounds, 1.9 assists and 1.5 blocks per game while shooting 48.2 percent from the field and 36.8 percent from three-point range in 38 games. He is logging 30.5 minutes per contest as Memphis has jumped out to a 17-23 start.

Despite the outside interest, the Grizzlies have consistently viewed Jackson as a cornerstone alongside Morant. However, league executives are increasingly watching Memphis’ direction as the trade deadline nears, with the possibility that Morant’s move could reshape the organization’s long-term outlook.

For now, Jackson remains focused on the field. Memphis will continue their international streak on Sunday against the Orlando Magic at 12:00 PM ET on Prime Video in London, United Kingdom. Next match Lost Thursday 118-111 to Orlando in Berlin, Germanya game in which the Grizzlies surrendered a 20-point lead.

Meanwhile, potential suitors remain active in the Eastern Conference. Detroit (29-10) hosts the Indiana Pacers (9-32) on Saturday at 7:00 PM ET, while Boston (25-15) hosts the Atlanta Hawks (20-23) on Saturday at 7:30 PM ET. The Celtics are also scheduled to travel to Detroit next Monday for an 8:00 PM ET matchup on NBC Peacock.

As the deadline nears, Jackson’s name is expected to remain prominent in league conversations, especially if Memphis’ direction becomes clearer in the coming weeks.