Jaren Jackson Jr. Erik Williams-Imagn Images

Grizzlies trade Jaren Jackson Jr. in blockbuster deal

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports | By Grey Papke | Last updated Feb 3, 2026 2:39 PM ET

The Memphis Grizzlies officially look like they’re blowing it up.

The Grizzlies traded forward Jaren Jackson Jr. to the Utah Jazz on Tuesday as part of an eight-player deal. Most notably, Memphis will receive three first-round picks as part of the trade.

There is nothing too surprising about the Grizzlies essentially giving up on their current core, but Jackson’s name did not heavily feature in trade rumors.

It appeared more likely that Ja Morant would be on the move, which could still happen.

BREAKING: The Memphis Grizzlies are trading star forward Jaren Jackson Jr., John Konchar, Jock Landale and Vince Williams Jr. to the Utah Jazz for Walter Clayton Jr., Kyle Anderson, Taylor Hendricks, Georges Niang and three future first-round picks, sources tell ESPN. pic.twitter.com/ax6oQpZx0S
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) February 3, 2026

Jackson, 26, has established himself as one of the NBA’s best big men. The former Defensive Player of the Year is averaging 19.2 points and 5.8 rebounds per game for Memphis this season, and will be paired with Lauri Markkanen in a frontcourt that can really stretch the floor.

The Jazz are just 15-35, so it is a bit surprising that they would be going for a big move like this. Jackson is under contract through 2029; however, the organization is clearly betting that it will be contending again by that point.

This article first appeared on Larry Brown Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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