Home
Memphis Grizzlies star forward Jaren Jackson Jr. dropped his reaction to Rich Paul's trade idea that linked him to the LA Lakers for Austin Reaves.
Jaren Jackson Jr. reacts on Rich Paul's trade idea
On the "Game Over" Podcast, on Thursday, Paul, CEO of Klutch Sports, said that the Lakers should aim for Jackson Jr. from the Memphis Grizzlies by offering Reaves in exchange. The 2023 NBA Defensive Player of the Year, as per Joe Vardon of "The Atletic," did not consider the suggestion initially, as he laughed it off because he did not even think the comments were credible.
“There’s just a lot of podcasts,” Jackson said. “At first, I didn’t think it was real. You have to figure out if it’s real, usually now, and I’m not as versed technology-wise as these people younger than me. I was figuring out if it’s AI, deepfake, all that stuff. That’s all I had, I didn’t really have much of a reaction.”
On his "Game Over" podcast with Max Kellerman, Paul made several comments regarding the team's roster and direction. He said that he doesn't think they are actually good enough to be title contenders. He also said that their front office needs to select a clear direction for the season and make upgrades in the roster, floating the mock trade involving Reaves for Jaren Jackson Jr.
No reaction from LeBron James on Paul's comments
LeBron James maintained a distance from Paul's statement. In addition, it has been claimed that the Lakers organization is not happy with the kind of commentary from Paul on his podcast.
Ja Morant's ordinary season
On the other hand, Memphis won't want to trade for Jackson Jr. They are looking to construct their team around him with the future of Ja Morant remaining uncertain. The former Michigan State star is averaging 18.8 points, 5.5 rebounds, 1.9 assists and 1.5 blocks per game for the Grizzlies.
Next challenge for Jaren Jackson?
Jaren Jackson stays committed to the Grizzlies, having rejected Rich Paul's idea. His side still considers him as a crucial piece of their squad even as they face significant changes, especially around Morant.
His stand and Memphis' have not stopped multiple teams around the league from showing interest. The Boston Celtics and Detroit Pistons are reportedly among the franchises that have shown interest in him. He penned a 5-year, $205,000,000 veteran extension contract with the Memphis Grizzlies, as per Spotrac, keeping him in Memphis till the 2030-31 season.
ADVERTISEMENT
