GG Jackson makes summer league statement the Grizzlies can’t ignore

GG Jackson emerged as a polarizing figure for the Memphis Grizzlies starting in 2024, seizing consistent playing time after injuries to Ja Morant, Marcus Smart, and Desmond Bane. He averaged 14.6 points and earned NBA All-Rookie Second Team honors, then led the Grizzlies' summer league team to the championship game while securing All-Summer League First Team recognition. However, a broken foot sustained in an open run sidelined him until January 2025.

Upon returning, Jackson struggled to adapt to a Grizzlies squad contending in the Western Conference's top three—a stark contrast to his rookie-year role as a primary option on a losing team. These difficulties fueled internal frustration, raising questions about whether Memphis might part ways with him this offseason. Despite this, Jackson voluntarily rejoined the 2025 summer league to demonstrate his ongoing value to the franchise.

During the Grizzlies' rookie introduction, GM Zach Kleiman highlighted Jackson as the team's youngest player at age 20. He is 15 months younger than the next closest teammate on their summer league roster, which includes draft picks Cedric Coward, Javon Small, and Jahmai Mashack. Before his injury, fans debated Jackson’s potential as a starting small forward—a role eventually filled by All-Rookie First Team member Jaylen Wells after Jackson’s setback.

Jackson addresses Memphis’s longstanding need for a wing scorer, a void unmet since Rudy Gay’s 2013 trade. In summer league play, he’s averaging 23.5 points on 57.5% field-goal shooting (including 37.5% from three), echoing the promise he showed pre-injury. His current performance underscores why the Grizzlies should persist in developing him, as his unique skillset—critical for championship contention—could determine whether the franchise ascends to elite status. Jackson’s growth extends beyond on-court skills, encompassing improved mentality and approach to the game.