Memphis Grizzlies: 3 critical goals going into the NBA playoffs

Memphis Grizzlies NBA playoffs goal No. 1: Find more minutes for Jaren Jackson Jr.

Jackson is a really adaptable stretch five who changed his role with the team when Valaciunas came into the squad. Jackson grew from his solid rookie year, increasing his numbers in almost every basic statistical category.

He was even shooting the 3-ball at 39.4 percent on 6.4 shot attempts per game which is a really nice number for a 6’11” center. It allows Valanciunas to do what he does best, bully players inside, getting rebounds and points in the paint.

However, it all came crashing down when Jackson tore his meniscus in the bubble. There is no telling what he could have helped the team achieve had he stayed healthy. Since coming back, Jackson has missed time through injury management, playing just nine games.

However, if he is going to help the team this year, he needs to play hard over the next few games to get his legs back under him. He is also shooting the 3-ball at 29.4 percent which is going to be fixed by Jackson getting shots up during games. Obviously, the Grizzlies need to manage him to keep him healthy so a balance needs to be found to help the team.