NBA Trade Deadline: Jaren Jackson Jr. Traded to Jazz in 7-Player Deal
Jan 26, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Memphis Grizzlies forward Jaren Jackson Jr. (8) reacts after a made basket against the Houston Rockets during the second quarter at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Erik Williams-Imagn Images
The Memphis Grizzlieshave officially traded their All-Star Jaren Jackson Jr. to the Jazz in a spectacular seven-player deal, according to ESPN sources. This major transaction, completed two days before the trade deadline, marks a decisive turning point for both franchises.
Memphis receives Walter Clayton Jr., Kyle Anderson, Taylor Hendricks, Georges Niang as well as three first-round draft picks. In addition to Jackson Jr., the Grizzlies also sent John Konchar, Jock Landale and Vince Williams Jr. to the Jazz.
A Complete Rebuild for Memphis
The move underscores a full-scale reset for Memphis. The Grizzlies now hold 13 draft picks over the next seven seasons, the most in the league, tied with Brooklyn Nets and Oklahoma City Thunder. The deal also creates a $28.8 million trade exception — the largest in NBA history, according to ESPN’s Bobby Marks — giving the front office added flexibility as the rebuild takes shape
BREAKING: The Memphis Grizzlies are trading star forward Jaren Jackson Jr., John Konchar, Jock Landale and Vince Williams Jr. to the Utah Jazz for Walter Clayton Jr., Kyle Anderson, Taylor Hendricks, Georges Niang and three future first-round picks, sources tell ESPN. pic.twitter.com/ax6oQpZx0S
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) February 3, 2026
Jackson Jr., 26 years old, a two-time All-Star, won the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award in 2022-2023. He has three years remaining on his five-year, $205 million contract, including a player option for the 2029-2030 season. This season, the 6’8″ power forward is averaging 19.2 points, 5.8 rebounds and 1.5 blocks in 45 games.
A Major Addition for Utah
The Utah Jazz (15-35) are counting on Jackson Jr. to strengthen their frontcourt alongside Walker Kessler, Kyle Filipowski and potentially Lauri Markkanen. The Finnish star, eighth-leading scorer in the league this season, was widely mentioned in trade rumors but could ultimately form a formidable duo with Jackson Jr.
This acquisition fits into the Jazz’s rebuild strategy, which now has a promising core with third-year point guard Keyonte George, rookie Ace Bailey and now Jackson Jr. to structure the franchise’s future.
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