Many media pundits and sportsbooks are low on the Memphis Grizzlies entering this season, following their offseason trading of Desmond Bane. While Ja Morant's injury history raises the most concern for the team, the development of Jaren Jackson Jr., evolving into a superstar, is needed for the team to elevate into a championship contender.
Jackson Jr. has been a hot name this summer following a disappointing playoff performance that had others doubting his effectiveness. ESPN's Kendrick Perkins called him the most overrated player in the NBA in late April, but the Grizzlies disagreed as they prioritized signing him to a five-year, $240 million contract extension in July.