Jaren Jackson Jr. Inks $240M Extension: Is He Worth the Max?

By Edcel Panganiban July 02, 2025 05:43

Jaren Jackson Jr. recently agreed to a five-year, $240 million supermax extension with the Memphis Grizzlies, a deal that will keep the 25-year-old forward under contract through the 2029-30 NBA season. This commitment makes him one of the highest-paid players in the league and underscores Memphis’s belief in Jackson as a foundational piece alongside Ja Morant. But the question remains: Is Jackson worth the max?

Jackson’s on-court production over the past few seasons provides a strong case for the Grizzlies’ investment. In the 2024-25 season, he posted career-best averages of 22.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, 1.5 blocks, and 1.2 steals per game, while shooting an efficient 48.8% from the field and 37.5% from three-point range. His defensive impact is especially notable, having earned the 2023 Defensive Player of the Year award and leading the league in blocks during the 2021-22 and 2022-23 seasons. Jackson’s ability to protect the rim and switch onto multiple positions makes him a rare two-way big man in today’s NBA.

Memphis’s front office views Jackson as a cornerstone. General Manager Zach Kleiman emphasized, “Jaren’s versatility on both ends of the floor and his leadership make him indispensable to our long-term vision.” His synergy with Ja Morant has been a driving force behind the Grizzlies’ recent playoff appearances, including their 48-34 record in 2024-25 and consistent contention in the Western Conference.

However, Jackson’s injury history raises some concerns. Just a day after signing the extension, he suffered a turf toe injury during a “live basketball run” away from the team’s facility, requiring surgery. While the Grizzlies expect a full recovery, Jackson has only played 70 or more games twice in his seven NBA seasons, which could impact his availability moving forward. Durability is a key factor when evaluating max contracts, especially for players whose game relies heavily on mobility and defensive agility.

Financially, the $240 million deal, which includes a player option for the final year, is a significant commitment but not unprecedented for a player of Jackson’s caliber. The contract averages about $48 million annually, reflecting the rising salary cap and the premium placed on elite defensive big men. Jackson narrowly missed out on a supermax extension worth $345 million by not making an All-NBA team, but this deal still ranks among the largest in NBA history.

Critics argue that while Jackson’s defensive prowess is elite, his offensive game, though improved, is not yet at the level of other max-caliber forwards who dominate scoring. Supporters counter that his unique skill set and impact on team defense justify the investment, especially given the scarcity of players who can anchor a defense and stretch the floor.

Jackson himself expressed gratitude and confidence in the deal, stating, “I’m honored to continue my journey with Memphis. This city and this team have believed in me, and I’m committed to helping us reach the highest levels.”

Jaren Jackson Jr.’s $240 million extension is a calculated bet by the Grizzlies on a versatile, two-way star entering his prime. His defensive dominance and improving offensive game make him a valuable asset, but injury concerns temper expectations. If he stays healthy, Jackson’s contract could prove to be a steal in a market that increasingly rewards multifaceted big men. Memphis is banking on that outcome as they build toward sustained contention in the Western Conference.