Grizzlies double down on Morant and Jackson Jr. with offseason overhaul
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MEMPHIS — The Grizzlies will open the 2025-26 season with a reshaped roster and long-term commitments to their two franchise pillars, Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr.
The front office moved quickly under the salary cap to renegotiate Jackson’s deal, boosting his 2025-26 salary to $35 million and tacking on a four-year, $205 million extension that keeps the 25-year-old forward under contract through at least 2029.
Memphis then sent Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic in a blockbuster trade that brought back veteran guard Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, multiple first-round picks and added flexibility with future draft capital. Two of those selections were packaged to climb to No. 11 in June’s draft, where the club chose 6-foot-8 forward Cedric Coward, viewed internally as an early contributor despite limited college experience.
Retaining depth remained a priority. Santi Aldama agreed to a three-year, $52.5 million contract, while Cam Spencer returned on a four-year, $10.4 million deal. The team also used its room exception to sign former Cavaliers guard Ty Jerome for three years and $27.7 million. Combined, the salaries of Caldwell-Pope, Jerome and Coward essentially replace Bane’s number while broadening roster versatility.
Morant, entering his seventh NBA season, stays at the center of the Grizzlies’ plans, with the retooled lineup designed to maximize the All-Star guard’s playmaking alongside Jackson’s two-way impact.
Frontcourt depth could be an early concern. With Jackson, rookie center Zach Edey and forward Brandon Clarke recovering from injuries, newly signed Jock Landale is expected to see increased minutes until the rotation returns to full strength.
Memphis has filled its 15 standard roster spots and three two-way slots, leaving only minor tweaks possible before training camp.
Source: Hoops Wire
