While Memphis' 2023-24 was a disaster, Jackson's season was a mixed bag. Without Ja Morant, Desmond Bane and Marcus Smart for nearly the entire campaign, Jackson averaged career highs in points (22.5), assists (2.3) and steals (1.2). However, his rebounding and shot-blocking took major steps back. His rebounds dropped from 6.8 per game in 2022-23 to 5.5 last year, while his blocks per game went from 3.0 to 1.6. Despite his size (6-foot-10), Jackson has never been a great rebounder, but the drop in defensive production is worrisome, as that was his main attraction in fantasy over the previous two seasons when he finished inside the top 30 in eight-category leagues. The Grizzlies returning to full strength in 2024-25 may help Jackson shift his focus back to defending the rim, but that would also mean his offensive numbers take a hit. There's always value in a player capable of hitting multiple threes and blocking multiple shots on any given night, especially in category leagues, but Jackson may never be a top-tier fantasy option.
