What looked like a lost Memphis Grizzlies season has suddenly found its purpose. Two straight wins that featured strong play from Vince Williams Jr., GG Jackson and others have boosted the energy around Grizzlies basketball.

Now, the remainder of this regular season won’t feel like as much of a drag. Of course nothing will top seeing Ja Morant, Desmond Bane and Jaren Jackson Jr. all healthy again, but Jackson’s scoring outbursts and Williams’ stat-sheet stuffing ability are enough to hold it down for now.

Memphis (20-36) has 26 games remaining this season. Bane, Jackson and Brandon Clarke should all return this season. Marcus Smart still has a splint on his right hand, and he’ll be re-evaluated once that is removed.

These next 26 games will be important to determine the long-term outlook for the Grizzlies.

Here are some of the biggest keys for Memphis remaining this season.

GG Jackson’s defensive growth

GG Jackson has been one of the Grizzlies’ most impressive players over the past month, but he still has only one start in his first 23 games played. The main reason is defense. Scoring comes natural to the 6-foot-9 forward, but coach Taylor Jenkins is challenging him to grow as a defender.

Jackson has all of the natural gifts to be an impact defender. His progress is less about ability and more about understanding concepts and tendencies.

Scotty Pippen Jr.’s health

Scotty Pippen Jr. can play. When he’s been on the floor, the Grizzlies point guard has produced. He’s averaging 10.8 points and 5.3 assists. The big question going forward on him is health.

Pippen will miss at least the next three weeks due to a lower back injury. He’ll be re-evaluated in early March before a return to play designation is given.

Finding more point guard depth is an area the Grizzlies need to address long term. With Derrick Rose’s injury concerns and Marcus Smart fitting in much better in off-the-ball scenarios, the Tyus Jones replacement hasn’t been found yet.

Or maybe he has. Pippen playing down the stretch would give Memphis a clue if he could be the next player on a two-way contract who gets promoted.

STANDING OUT: GG Jackson, Vince Williams Jr. breakouts have become silver linings in Grizzlies' season

Who is next?

Look at the rest of the season like open tryouts. It’s not hard to figure out who at least four of the starters are projected to be next season. Factor in the already established depth pieces and there’s not a lot of playing time to go around. Lamar Stevens, Ziaire Williams, Yuta Watanabe and Trey Jemison are among the players who could solidify themselves.

Stevens has stood out early in his tenure with his physical defense and scoring ability. Jenkins likes those kind of players.

And don’t forget about Jake LaRavia. His career has been hindered by injuries to this point, but he’s getting close to being back. This is a big stretch for him to show his value.

This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: GG Jackson's defense and other Grizzlies storylines for rest of season