The start of the season has been filled with drama for the Memphis Grizzlies. What that could hypothetically do is open up the perfect opportunity for the Phoenix Suns to make a move for Jaren Jackson Jr., should he become available.
As of Wednesday afternoon, Memphis holds just a 3-5 record, and there's already been talk about moving some of the main guys in their core. With the way things have been going, possibly even Ja Morant or Jaren Jackson Jr. could be available if this current trajectory continues. That could create an ideal scenario for the Suns to capitalize on.
One of Phoenix's biggest roster holes at the moment is in the frontcourt. They have plenty of guys currently rostered at the center position, but the Suns could use another power forward. Jackson's ability to space the floor, anchor the paint, and guard multiple positions defensively would make him a very solid fit next to Devin Booker, as well as Mark Williams in the paint.
Jackson Jr. could fit in nicely in The Valley
On offense, Jackson can stretch to the corner or operate as a pick and pop threat, which would in turn open up lanes for Booker, Dillon Brooks or others to drive and attack. On defense, he'd be able to cover for others' defensive lapses while giving Phoenix another deterrent at the rim without clogging up the spacing. Jaren is still young enough and offers enough at both ends of the floor to really elevate this Suns team.
A lot of people see Phoenix as a team in limbo right now. Losing players like Kevin Durant in the offseason can tend to have that effect, but it doesn't have to stay that way for long with how the league is currently set up. There are plenty of ways to elevate your team and get back into contention in short order, with one of the most attractive options being capitalizing on your rivals' misfortune.
That's precisely the situation the Suns have in front of them with the Grizzlies' current problems. Jaren Jackson Jr. is a proven needle-mover, and he could really help turn Phoenix's current situation around in a hurry should the organization find a way to trade for him. If the Grizzlies decide to go in a new direction, the Suns would be wise to throw their hat in the ring.