Utah Jazz bigs vs Jaren Jackson, Jr is a battle worth watching

The Utah Jazz’s Rudy Gobert and Derrick Favors have a date set with No. 4 overall pick Jaren Jackson, Jr. in the first of what could be many epic battles.

Just like the rest of the Utah Jazz nation, my summer was spent anxiously waiting to see what Donovan Mitchell and the rest of the band had in store for us this season. If I am being honest, though, there are a handful of players on teams around the league that I’ve been watching with equal interest.

Chief among them is Memphis Grizzlies big man and No. 4 overall pick Jaren Jackson, Jr. The Jazz play host to Jackson and the Grizz on Monday night.

Ahead of the 2018 NBA Draft, I opined that Jackson could eventually become the best player of his class. And through two games, he hasn’t disappointed.

The 19-year-old currently boasts averages of 17 points, six boards, two steals and 1.5 blocks per game. He’s also shooting 56 percent from the field and 40 percent from distance on 2.5 attempts per contest.

Those numbers may be buoyed by his 24-point night against the Atlanta Hawks on Friday, but there’s no doubting his talent. And with Grizz forward JaMychal Green out 4-6 weeks with a broken jaw, he should have ample opportunity to become a fast fixture in the Memphis frontcourt.

Regardless, he’ll have his hands full with the likes of Rudy Gobert and Derrick Favors.

Gobert and Favors are both off to strong starts this season offensively, combining for 29 points per game on over 70 percent shooting. He may be big, athletic and mobile, but Jackson could have a tough time stopping the seasoned vets.

Likewise, both Jazzmen will act as major blockades when they’re paired with JJJ. As a team, the Jazz have yet to find their groove defensively; look for Favors and Gobert to  spearhead a bounce-back effort against the Grizz.

Still, it’s going to be a battle; the first in what should be a long line of epic showdowns. For his part, Grizzlies coach JB Bickerstaff thinks his rookie is equal to such challenges.

Said Bickerstaff, via the Commercial Appeal —

"“We’ve been together a short amount of time but in no situation have I seen a moment that’s been too big for him,” Grizzlies coach J.B. Bickerstaff said. “He’s never been too hype. He’s never been too low. Whatever it is that’s in front of him, he just attacks it head on and for a guy who just turned 19 years old to do that already speaks to his character.”"

If you ask me, that sounds like a proper foil for our twin towers.

Nevertheless, I expect D-Faves and the Stifle Tower to fire the opening salvo in what could be a years-long battle.

The Jazz and the Grizz will tip things off at the Viv at 7 PM MT.