Memphis Grizzlies’ star player, Jaren Jackson Jr., is on the edge of making history with a prospective supermax contract extension. The reigning Defensive Player of the Year (2022-23 season) is on track to potentially securing one of the most lucrative contracts the NBA has ever witnessed.
ESPN’s Bobby Marks recently highlighted the conditions required for Jackson to be eligible for this historic contract. By clinching the Defensive Player of the Year award once again this coming season, Jackson could find himself at the negotiation table in 2025, discussing a massive five-year deal amounting to a staggering $318 million.
This possibility isn’t difficult to believe considering Jackson’s recent performances. His contributions to the Grizzlies in the last regular season were nothing short of remarkable, averaging 18.6 points, 6.8 rebounds, and an impressive defensive record with 3 blocks and 1 steal per game.
Jaren Jackson Jr. is eligible for a 5-year, $318M Supermax extension if he wins DPOY again next season, per @BobbyMarks42 pic.twitter.com/rEabZilsVR
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) September 17, 2023
Currently, Jackson Jr. has a 4-year / $104,720,000 contract with the Grizzlies, which he signed last year, setting a substantial base for what could potentially be a record-breaking financial leap in his career.
Jaren Jackson Jr. in the center of emerging supermax contract trends
In the middle of what might be a groundbreaking moment for Jackson, it is worth noting the recent trends in the supermax contract landscape. Just this offseason, Boston Celtics’ Jaylen Brown signed a deal securing his stay with the team for an additional five years. This $304 million contract came without a player option but introduced a trade kicker, according to reports by ESPN and The Athletic.
Jaylen Brown, who is set to earn $28.5 million in the 2023-24 season, strengthened his position with the Celtics following a career-best season where he recorded an average of 26.6 points and 6.9 rebounds per game. This performance not only earned him a place in the second-team All-NBA but also made him eligible for a supermax extension that could have been worth $295 million over five years.
Jaylen Brown’s supermax extension with the Celtics could reach up to $304M, per ESPN.
$70M in the final year 🤯 pic.twitter.com/gjlxITgrFS
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) July 15, 2023
As Jackson Jr. steps into a crucial phase in his career, the spotlight will undoubtedly be on his performance in the upcoming season. His defensive prowess, as reflected by his standing in the 99th percentile in block percentage and 87th percentile in steals percentage, speaks volumes about his capabilities.
Will Jaren Jackson Jr. redefine the benchmark for NBA contracts? Only time will tell, but one thing is clear – the stage is set for a historic moment that could potentially reshape the financial dynamics of the league.
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