Coach Tuomas Iisalo trusts Jaren Jackson Jr.'s scoring will rebound. Jackson's defensive impact and playmaking create opportunities for teammates, fueling the Grizzlies' defensive surge.
Jaren Jackson Jr.’s scoring numbers have dipped noticeably in recent games, but the Memphis Grizzlies aren’t treating it as a red flag. Through 22 games this season, Jackson has averaged 17.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.9 assists — production aligned with his typical offensive role. Over his last four outings, however, he has averaged just 9.8 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 2.8 assists, including a six-point performance with three steals against the Trail Blazers on Sunday.
Despite the decline, coach Tuomas Iisalo made clear he sees no cause for concern. Iisalo pointed first to Jackson’s defensive impact, which remains central to Memphis’ identity.
“It’s always about finding a good balance,” Iisalo said. “The biggest thing that he is doing is defensively. With (Jackson Jr.) and (Edey) together on the floor, it’s not a surprise we’re keeping opponents to very low scoring numbers. They’ve been tremendous.”
Jackson’s scoring slump has coincided with Memphis’ best defensive stretch of the season. His versatility allows the Grizzlies to toggle between coverages, while rookie center Zach Edey anchors the paint. That pairing has contributed to Memphis ranking among the league’s top defensive teams over the past 10 games.
Iisalo emphasized that Jackson’s offensive value extends well beyond shot totals. “There are several components there that make (Jackson Jr.) a great player,” Iisalo said. “He is a very good player on the perimeter, very good player on the inside, it’s just a matter of time before (his stats) are up again.”
In recent games, Jackson has served more as a facilitator and screener, drawing defensive attention that frees teammates for clean scoring opportunities. His three first-quarter assists against Portland reflected that shift, and his reads helped Santi Aldama, Cam Spencer and others find rhythm within the offense.
Iisalo acknowledged how Jackson’s gravity continues to shape Memphis’ spacing.
“Jaren has been great in providing flow for us offensively, being more of a screen and someone who draws attention,” Iisalo explained. “When you look at how the other guys are scoring, it is because of the attention that (Jackson Jr.) is drawing in those lineups.”
His ability to attract double teams has also created easier finishes for Zach Edey in their shared minutes.
“We have a guy who draws automatic double teams and a lot of the time (Jaren Jackson Jr.) is playing with (Zach Edey),” Iisalo explained. “He can find him at the front of the rim. I think, for example, (against the Trail Blazers) after the first quarter, Jaren already had three assists because he is finding the open guys.”
While the Grizzlies will ultimately need Jackson’s scoring to rebound as the schedule toughens, the staff believes the underlying process remains strong. His shot profile hasn’t changed dramatically, and the expected return of Ja Morant should improve spacing and lighten Jackson’s offensive burden.
For now, Memphis views his slump not as a setback but as a natural stretch within a larger role — one that continues to influence winning in ways that extend well beyond points per game.