The first major domino of the 2026 NBA trade deadline has fallen.
Per ESPN’s Shams Charania, the Grizzlies and Jazz orchestrated a massive eight-player trade on Tuesday afternoon. Among the names and draft picks swapping sides, Jaren Jackson Jr. is the headliner. The two-time All-Star, now headed to Utah, is one of basketball’s premier two-way threats.
In addition to Jackson Jr., the Jazz will receive role players John Konchar, Jock Landale and Vince Williams Jr. In return, the Grizzlies are adding Walter Clayton Jr., Taylor Hendricks, Georges Niang, Kyle Anderson and three future first-round picks.
Utah (15-35, 13th in West) doesn’t fit the mold of a buy-now club. However, there’s a solid offensive nucleus in Salt Lake City between forward Lauri Markkanen and guard Keyonte George. Where the Jazz struggle is on defense; they are allowing an NBA-worst 127.0 points per game.
By acquiring Jackson Jr., a former Defensive Player of the Year, Utah’s roster immediately becomes more balanced. Through 45 games, the big man is putting up 19.2 points, 5.8 rebounds, 1.5 blocks and 1.0 steals. JJJ is currently making over $50 million per year through the 2028-29 season, with a player option in ’29-30. Konchar, Williams Jr. and Landale, if nothing else, offer solid depth. The first two can be kept under team control through the 2026-27 season.
As for the Grizzlies (19-29, 11th in West), this is a clear sign that the franchise is rebuilding. Injuries, off-court issues, and inconsistent performance have plagued a group once seen as Western Conference contenders. Although a change needed to be made, most fans assumed point guard Ja Morant would be the one leaving town.
Memphis will get the following draft compensation from the Jazz, per NBA insider Jake Fischer:
- Utah’s most favorable ’27 first-round pick (CLE/MIN/UTA)
- Lakers ’27 first-round pick
- Suns ’31 first round pick
In addition, the Grizzlies will get four players back in return. The most promising name headed to Memphis is Walter Clayton Jr. A champion last season with Florida, the rookie has shown flashes. Over 45 games, he’s posted 6.8 points, 2.0 rebounds and 3.2 assists. The guard will have more opportunity for playing time on a now-barren Grizzlies roster. Another former first-round pick, Taylor Hendricks, offers some upside as well.
