NBA Experts Reveal Major Prediction for Memphis Grizzles Star

Can Memphis Grizzlies star Jaren Jackson Jr. repeat as Defensive Player of the Year?

After winning the NBA's Defensive Player of the Year award last season, Memphis Grizzlies star Jaren Jackson Jr. is predicted to win it again next season. In ESPN's latest prediction panel, Jackson was named the favorite to win Defensive Player of the Year next season, which would make him the first player to win it consecutive years since Rudy Gobert in 2018 and 2019.

Jackson is a very versatile defender for the Grizzlies. One of the best rim protectors in basketball, Jackson can also slide with smaller players much better than most big men. Playing the bulk of his minutes at the power forward position, Jackson often plays next to another big, which gives the Grizzlies two interior defenders.

Adding to his versatility, Jackson can also play as the lone big, which gives the Grizzlies a lot of lineup versatility as well. Players like these are rare, especially with the evolution of Jackson's offensive game. A rising star in the league, Jackson made the All-Star team for the first time in his career last season, which was a very nice honor in addition to his Defensive Player of the Year campaign.

The Grizzlies will be very reliant on Jackson next season, especially for the first 25 games while Ja Morant serves his suspension. Looking ready for another leap forward, this should be a big year for the Grizzlies star.

Related Articles

Memphis Grizzles GM Gets Honest About Current Roster

Warriors and Lakers Expected to Show Interest in Former Grizzlies Star

NBA Rookie Reveals Advice from Ja Morant and Other Stars