Noting three key Grizzlies players to fill GG Jackson's shoes

Amid high hopes heading to the 2024-25 season, the Memphis Grizzlies couldn't catch a break as GG Jackson suffered a brutal foot injury.

The Grizzlies announced that Jackson broke his fifth metatarsal in his right foot after landing awkwardly in a recent pick-up game in Dallas. The injury will require the 19-year-old urgent surgery to repair the damage, which means he'll get sidelined during the initial portion of the upcoming season to recover.

Losing Jackson to start the new season is a gut-wrenching blow for Memphis. The promising All-Rookie Second Team member offers multiple possibilities for the Grizzlies on both ends. His looming absence critically depletes the team's bench depth, which is already underwhelming on paper.

After this unfortunate event, the Grizzlies have no choice but to apply a 'Next man up' mentality. Thankfully, they have plenty of considerable personnel who can seize increased responsibilities due to Jackson's inactivity.

John Konchar

John Konchar naturally plays the swingman role, but he is capable enough to handle the physicality at the four as well.

Jitty is often praised in Memphis for his toughness and dirty work. His energy is already enough to redeem at least what will be Jackson's loss from aggressiveness. He's a great rebounder at his position and can give the Grizzlies some great looks in offense and defense. His scoring average might not be productive enough per 18.1 minutes of play, but he can solidly fill the things outside of the stat sheet that the Grizzlies can only expect out of his exposure.

Jake LaRavia

LaRavia endured a challenging run for himself in his first two seasons in the NBA because of injuries. But when healthy, he can easily showcase his capabilities to perform productively for the Grizzlies.

In 38 games last season, the second-year forward averaged 10.8 points and 3.7 boards for 23.0 minutes. And in the team's previous Summer League outing this year, he was impressive with what he can do on the court. He can lead the scoring, play defense, and take over when needed.

Jackson's unavailability offers Jake an excellent chance to continue proving himself in the eyes of the Grizzlies, and he's certainly ready to take a bold step up once he gets the nod from coach Taylor Jenkins.

Santi Aldama

Santi Aldama is already established in the Grizzlies' rotation out of what he can bring. However, considering the circumstances and uncertainty about his future with the team, Jackson's injury offers a blessing in disguise, allowing him to pursue an ideal next contract for his budding career.

Aldama has enjoyed a heck of a year for himself. He had a career season last 2023-24 for Memphis by averaging 10.7 points, 5.8 boards, and 2.3 assists, followed by a strong showing upon leading Spain in the 2024 Olympics. His feel for the game improved dramatically as a promising big man who can stretch the floor and be an instant offensive spark plug.

The 23-year-old is still set to be one of Memphis' leaders in its bench unit. However, with a more significant load about to welcome him with GG out for several weeks, he has to make the most out of it to convince the Grizzlies that he deserves a rookie scale extension before the Oct. 21 deadline.

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