The spotlight is shining brighter than ever on the Memphis Grizzlies as they navigate the treacherous waters of the NBA playoffs.
Their first-round matchup against the Oklahoma City Thunder has already delivered drama, though not the kind Memphis fans hoped for.
After suffering a humiliating 51-point defeat in Game 1, criticism has come swift and harsh.
Among the loudest voices in the aftermath was ESPN analyst Kendrick Perkins, who zeroed in on one player in particular – Jaren Jackson Jr.
“I believe in Ja Morant, but I don’t believe Jaren Jackson, Jr. […] He is the most overhyped player in this league. He’s not even a top 10 big in my eyes,” Perkins declared during a recent segment of ESPN’s NBA Today.
“[Jaren Jackson Jr.] is the most overhyped player in this league. He’s not even a top 10 big in my eyes.”@kendrickperkins wants to see more from the Grizzlies’ All-Star in the playoffs 👀 pic.twitter.com/PVgBUuf89C
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) April 21, 2025
Perkins didn’t stop there. Despite Jackson’s impressive resume, which includes an All-Star selection and a Defensive Player of the Year award, the former NBA champion questioned whether the Grizzlies’ big man truly deserves his accolades.
According to Perkins, Jackson consistently falls short in pivotal moments when his team needs him most.
The criticism focused particularly on Jackson’s performance in the paint. Perkins argued that a player of Jackson’s stature should dominate both offensively and defensively, especially in rebounding situations.
Instead, Perkins pointed out how Jackson struggles against mismatches and lacks aggression near the basket, areas where elite bigs typically excel.
For his part, Jackson seems to be taking the criticism in stride. Rather than deflecting blame after the blowout loss, he acknowledged the need for improvement.
The Grizzlies forward committed to studying game film, determined to make the necessary adjustments before the series continues.
NEXT: Ja Morant Sends Clear Message After Blowout Loss To Thunder
