Grizzlies vs. Kings: Is Jaren Jackson Jr. Playing Tonight?

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated Nov 20, 2025 4:40 PM ET

Jaren Jackson Jr. has played in all 15 games for the Memphis Grizzlies thus far. However, the former Defensive Player of the Year’s status for Thursday’s game against the Sacramento Kings was suddenly put into question due to an ankle injury.

In Memphis’ last game, Jackson produced 18 points on 8-of-20 shooting, to go along with six rebounds, three assists and two triples. The Grizzlies, however, still suffered a 111-101 defeat against a Victor Wembanyama-less San Antoni Spurs side. That was Memphis’ fifth straight loss. Jackson and Co. have won just once in their last 10 games, and they enter Thursday’s contest against the Kings with a 3-12 record.

Memphis Grizzlies forward Jaren Jackson Jr. (13) is dealing with an ankle injury. © Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images

Is Jaren Jackson Jr. Playing Tonight?

Despite Jackson’s relatively strong start to the season, the Grizzlies have struggled mightily. They are currently 12th in the Western Conference.

As for Jackson, the two-time All-Star big man is averaging 17.9 points on 47.0% shooting, 5.3 rebounds, 1.5 assists and 1.3 blocks. He’s also knocking down 1.7 triples per game on a 36.8% clip.

Jackson, however, suddenly popped up on the injury report for Thursday’s game. He sustained the injury in Tuesday’s loss to the Spurs, and is now in danger of sitting out against the Kings.

As of writing, Jackson is listed as doubtful to play, which means that there's a significant chance that he will not be taking the court tonight. Memphis should make a final decision closer to the 8:00 p.m. ET tip-off.

If Jackson sits out, Santi Aldama will likely take over his spot in the starting lineup, with John Konchar potentially seeing an uptick in his usage rate as well.

It is also worth noting that Memphis will be without superstar guard Ja Morant. The two-time All-Star is nursing a right calf strain, which forced him to sit out the Spurs game. On Monday, the Grizzlies announced that Morant will miss at least the next two weeks.

As for the Kings, Domantas Sabonis has been ruled out due to left knee soreness, leaving Sacramento's frontcourt undermanned.

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

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