RUMBLING IN MEMPHIS: Lakers Closely Monitoring Jaren Jackson Jr. as Grizzlies Weigh Full Rebuild Following Bane Trade, Setting Stage for Potential Blockbuster Deal
The NBA offseason is rarely short on intrigue, but few rumors have stirred as much buzz as the whispers linking Jaren Jackson Jr. to the Los Angeles Lakers. Known for their relentless pursuit of star talent, the Lakers are once again circling the waters, this time around a franchise big man who could become the crown jewel of an evolving trade market. Jackson, just 25 years old, embodies the exact archetype of a modern big man — one who defends at an elite level, protects the rim, stretches the floor with his shooting, and has the agility to switch onto guards without hesitation. With the Memphis Grizzlies facing growing pressure to define their future after trading Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic, the situation surrounding Jackson has suddenly come into sharp focus across the league.
For Memphis, the 2024–25 campaign was a brutal reminder of how quickly the NBA landscape can change. Once seen as a rising Western Conference powerhouse built around a young core featuring Ja Morant, Desmond Bane, and Jaren Jackson Jr., the Grizzlies found themselves derailed by injuries, inconsistency, and disappointing on-court results. With Morant sidelined for most of the season and Bane’s contributions insufficient to keep Memphis in playoff contention, the front office was forced to reassess. The first domino fell when the franchise traded Bane to Orlando in a move that puzzled some but clearly signaled a shift. Was it a tactical retool designed to clear cap space and rework the supporting cast, or a full-scale rebuild aimed at reimagining the franchise from the ground up?
The answer remains ambiguous, but one thing is clear: rival teams have taken notice. That includes the Lakers, who are reportedly keeping a watchful eye on how Memphis proceeds. In a league where the elite big man can swing the balance of power, Jaren Jackson Jr. instantly becomes one of the most coveted potential trade pieces. The reigning Defensive Player of the Year finalist and former All-Star is the kind of talent who doesn’t become available often. If Memphis tips further toward a rebuild, the Lakers — never shy about big swings — are expected to be among the first to inquire.
From the Lakers’ perspective, Jackson represents more than just another talented addition. He represents an ideal fit next to two generational players in LeBron James and Luka Dončić. With Dončić reportedly close to joining the Lakers via a high-profile trade of his own, Jackson’s presence would balance the roster and give Los Angeles a legitimate Big Three to challenge for a championship immediately. Jackson’s shot-blocking prowess would mask some of Dončić’s defensive shortcomings, while his ability to space the floor from the corner or the top of the key would open lanes for both Luka and LeBron to operate. The Lakers have long lacked a true defensive anchor since the departure of Dwight Howard and the aging of Anthony Davis. Jackson, in many ways, checks every box.
League insiders believe that while no deal is imminent, groundwork is already being laid. The Lakers are reportedly exploring various trade frameworks involving a mix of young assets, future picks, and cap-friendly contracts that would satisfy Memphis’ rebuilding needs. Players like Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, and Jalen Hood-Schifino have been mentioned as possible components of such a deal, alongside multiple first-round picks. For Memphis, the decision would hinge not just on the offer’s value but on whether they truly intend to pivot away from competing in the near term.
The notion of parting with Jackson won’t be easy for the Grizzlies. Drafted fourth overall in 2018, Jackson has been a central figure in their growth from lottery dwellers to playoff contenders. His development on the defensive end — becoming one of the league’s premier shot blockers and a key communicator — has helped define the franchise’s gritty identity. Offensively, his three-point shooting, though inconsistent at times, stretches defenses in a way few centers can. Jackson is not just a star; he’s a culture setter. Trading him would be a profound signal that the Grizzlies are pressing reset, not just reshuffling pieces.
Still, Memphis may have no choice but to consider all options. With Ja Morant’s long-term health and availability in question, and with Bane now gone, building around Jackson alone may not make strategic sense. Waiting too long could also diminish his trade value if injuries or diminishing returns emerge. The Grizzlies’ front office, led by GM Zach Kleiman, is known for being forward-thinking and bold. If they believe now is the time to sell high and acquire assets to reshape the team’s timeline, Jackson could be moved while his value is near its peak.
Meanwhile, the Lakers are in a rare win-now moment, potentially the last of LeBron’s legendary career. With Dončić poised to usher in the next era in Los Angeles and with head coach JJ Redick bringing a modernized offensive vision to the table, the Lakers are hungry to load up. Adding Jackson would not only give them an elite defensive presence but also make them arguably the most well-rounded roster in the league. LeBron’s basketball IQ combined with Dončić’s offensive engine and Jackson’s defensive brilliance would be a nightmare matchup for any contender.
Off the court, the appeal of Los Angeles can’t be ignored either. Jackson, the son of former NBA player Jaren Jackson Sr., has always carried himself with a charismatic and polished demeanor, making him a natural fit in a big market like L.A. He would immediately become a fan favorite, not just for his on-court exploits but for his personality, which blends confidence with humility. The Lakers’ branding machine could easily turn Jackson into one of the faces of the franchise for the post-LeBron era.
Financially, the trade would require careful navigation, particularly with the new collective bargaining agreement imposing harsher penalties for teams operating above the second apron. However, the Lakers have proven adept at maneuvering through tight cap situations before. With Rob Pelinka and his staff reportedly working around the clock, a creative package that works for both sides is not out of the realm of possibility. That may include draft swaps, protected picks, or even a third team entering the fray to absorb contracts or supply additional assets.
As rumors swirl, fans from both cities are bracing for what could become one of the offseason’s biggest stories. In Memphis, the idea of losing a homegrown star stings, but so does stagnation. In Los Angeles, the thought of adding Jaren Jackson Jr. next to LeBron and Luka sparks visions of another golden era. Even NBA players are taking notice, with social media already abuzz over cryptic likes and emojis from stars who may know more than they let on.
Jackson himself has remained quiet publicly, but those close to him say he’s aware of the rumors and is keeping an open mind. He’s deeply connected to the Memphis community, having invested time and money into youth programs and charitable efforts across the city. Yet the opportunity to play on the biggest stage alongside legends and chase titles every year is a tempting prospect for any competitor. If Memphis gives the green light, Jackson may find himself in purple and gold sooner than anyone expected.
For now, the situation remains fluid. Memphis has not declared a rebuild, and Jackson remains on the roster. But with Desmond Bane already shipped out and Ja Morant’s timeline unclear, the writing may be on the wall. Every front office in the NBA knows that timing is everything, and the Lakers are rarely caught sleeping when a star becomes available. In a league dominated by movement, optics, and ambition, it’s often those who act first who win big.
The chessboard is set. Whether the Grizzlies decide to hold their position or embrace change could determine the course of multiple franchises. But if Memphis blinks, don’t be surprised if the Lakers are already on the line, ready to turn whispers into fireworks. Jaren Jackson Jr. may not be in L.A. yet, but the pieces are moving — and the league is watching.
