Watch: Jaren Jackson Jr. destroys Anthony Davis with a put back slam for Memphis Grizzlies
Memphis Grizzlies forward Jaren Jackson Jr. captivated fans in the game against the LA Lakers on Tuesday as he executed an emphatic putback slam over Anthony Davis.
The sequence occurred in the fourth quarter with the Grizzlies leading by 12 points.
Watch the video below:
OH MY JAREN JACKSON 🫣 (via @NBA) https://t.co/7Vks79QF2Y
The Grizzlies are currently second in the Western Conference and they've been playing like a championship team as of late. Their confidence and momentum has led them to outperform most of their opponents, including the Lakers, who were on a three-game win streak but without their leader, LeBron James.
Jaren Jackson Jr.'s foul troubles holding him back from being Defensive Player of the Year
The race for Defensive Player of the Year this season is led by the Grizzlies' big man Jaren Jackson Jr. Unlike last season, this year's race is headlined by three big men who specialize in protecting the rim. The two players who are in the mix with Jackson are Brook Lopez of the Milwaukee Bucks and Nic Claxton of the Brooklyn Nets.
Jackson leads the league in blocks with 3.2 per game this season. His defensive output was his ticket to being named an All-Star. However, one aspect he has struggled with is fouling. He has often landed in foul trouble in games, resulting in a reduction in minutes.
Jaren Jackson Jr. tonight:
15 PTS
7 REB
4 BLK
2 STL
2 3PM
W
Got in foul trouble early and still had 6 stocks. DPOY!!! https://t.co/PHgIRhFTvH
The one-time All-Defensive player is averaging 3.4 fouls this season. Last year, he averaged 3.5 fouls per game, but was still able to lead the league in blocks with 2.3.
It's impressive that he's been able to be a reliable rim protector for the team, despite being in constant foul trouble. In the 10 games prior to their game against the Lakers, Jackson averaged four fouls per game.
Also read: What is the Jaren Jackson Jr's stats inflating theory going viral: All you need to know