Jaren Jackson Jr. available to make 2021 debut vs. Clippers Wednesday

Update: Jackon is available for the first time this season. He’ll come off the bench and will have a minutes restriction. It’s doubtful that he’ll see more than 20 or 25 minutes.

Memphis Grizzlies PF Jaren Jackson Jr. hasn’t played in an NBA game since he tore his meniscus last season, but he could make his 2020-21 debut this week. The NBA’s Tuesday injured report listed Jackson as questionable ahead of the Grizzlies’ Wednesday matchup against the Los Angeles Clippers. Memphis is a fringe playoff team and could use one of its best young talents down the stretch in the regular season.

Jackson, 21, averaged 17.4 points and 4.6 rebounds per game last year while shooting 46.9% from the field and 39.4% from three. The third-year forward’s offensive versatility could improve a Memphis frontcourt that’s featured Kyle Anderson at power forward for a large chunk of the season. Memphis’s frontcourt is banged up ahead of Wednesday and could use all the help it can get.

Jonas Valanciunas has been ruled out for Wednesday because of the NBA’s concussion protocol. Dillon Brooks is questionable with thigh soreness.