Memphis & Salt Lake City, United States
News Desk | Sports Coverage
The Memphis Grizzlies have traded two-time All-Star forward Jaren Jackson Jr to the Utah Jazz as part of a significant eight-player transaction ahead of the NBA’s Feb. 5 trade deadline, sources confirmed. The deal, reported Wednesday evening by ESPN insider Shams Charania, reshapes rosters in both the Western Conference and signals a broader shift for Memphis’ long-term strategy.
Jaren Jackson Jr, 26, a former NBA Defensive Player of the Year and three-time All-Defensive honoree, was sent to Utah along with teammates John Konchar, Jock Landale and Vince Williams Jr. in exchange for Walter Clayton Jr., veterans Kyle Anderson and Georges Niang, young forward Taylor Hendricks and three future first-round draft picks, according to league sources.
The Utah Jazz, struggling near the bottom of the standings this season, are hoping the addition of Jackson’s two-way presence can help fortify their defense and accelerate a return to postseason contention around star big man Lauri Markkanen. For Memphis, the move marks a continuation of a roster teardown that began with coaching changes and the offseason trade of Desmond Bane, as the franchise recalibrates toward youth and asset accumulation.
Jaren Jackson Jr, who was averaging around 19.2 points, 5.8 rebounds and 1.5 blocks per game this season before the trade, is in the third year of a multi-year contract that includes a lucrative player option in the 2029-30 season. Memphis entered the 2025-26 campaign with hopes that he and fellow star Ja Morant could lead sustained success, but inconsistent results and injuries have clouded that trajectory.
The Grizzlies’ front office indicated in multiple statements over the past week that it was actively exploring roster changes ahead of the deadline, with league executives confirming that the organization remains open to further trades, including potential offers involving Morant.
The Jazz have not yet released a formal statement on Jackson’s arrival or outlined his role in their rotation, but coaches and team officials are expected to address the acquisition during Thursday’s scheduled media availability. Both franchises will continue to navigate trade talks through Thursday’s deadline. The story is developing.
ALSO READ: Jill Biden Former Husband Indicted On Murder Charge In Delaware Case
