The first big surprise drops: the Grizzlies trade Jaren Jackson

The party’s officially starting. We’re just hours away from the NBA trade deadline, which closes on February 5 at 3:00 p.m. ET, and the next 48 hours could completely reshape the league. And we already have our first bombshell: Jaren Jackson Jr. is leaving the Memphis Grizzlies and heading to the Utah Jazz.

The move, first reported by Shams Charania, raised eyebrows across the league. It’s unclear whether Memphis is done dealing or if this is just the first domino in a bigger long‑term plan. And all of it unfolds while the franchise waits to see what happens with Ja Morant, whose departure feels inevitable — whether now or in the summer.

Memphis hit reset

Everything points to the Grizzlies officially entering rebuild mode, signaling the end of their previous project. Along with Jackson, Memphis is sending John Konchar, Jock Landale, and Vince Williams Jr. to Salt Lake City.

In return, the Grizzlies receive:

Memphis also sheds Jackson’s massive five‑year, $205 million contract, which runs through 2029 — or 2030 if he picks up his player option. That alone gives the franchise major financial flexibility moving forward.

What Utah gets: a defensive star in his prime

Jackson, 26, stands 6′10″ and carries a strong résumé. He made the All‑Rookie First Team in 2019, has led the league in blocks twice, earned two All‑Defensive First Team selections and another on the Second Team, made two All‑Star appearances, and won Defensive Player of the Year in 2023.

In Utah, he joins Keyonte George, Lauri Markkanen, and Walker Kessler, giving the Jazz a powerful core with short‑term upside. The only concern with Jackson has always been his durability — but when healthy, he’s a franchise‑level anchor.

Memphis loads up for the future

With this trade, the Grizzlies now hold 13 first‑round picks over the next seven years and created a $28.8 million trade exception, the largest in NBA history. The organization is clearly betting on youth and leaning into a long‑term rebuild.

Santi Aldama remains with the team — still the only NBA franchise he’s played for — and is expected to be part of the next phase.

The big unresolved question is Ja Morant. His days in Memphis appear numbered, but moving him won’t be simple given his off‑court issues and contract. Until that situation unfolds, here’s what we do know: The Jazz just landed a major talent, and the Grizzlies have officially hit the reset button.

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