The Memphis Grizzlies announced on Friday that their talented big-man Jaren Jackson Jr. had surgery earlier this week to address a stress fracture in his right foot. As a result, Jackson will be sidelined for four to six months.
According to the Grizzlies, Jackson is expected to make a full recovery.
This represents some unwelcoming news for the Grizzlies, who hoped to take another step forward in 2022-23 after reaching the Conference Semifinals this past season. Jackson was a major reason why Memphis got that far in the first place, emerging as one of the best defenders in the league.
The Michigan State had his most accomplished campaign as a pro in 2021-22 after struggling to stay healthy in previous seasons. Jackson averaged 16.3 points, 5.8 rebounds, 1.1 assists, and league-leading 2.3 blocks per game. He also received NBA All-Defensive First Team honors.
Jackson will most certainly miss the start of the new NBA season according to the current timeline. In the worst-case scenario, he might not make the court at all before 2024. The latter seems like the most likely outcome since the Grizzlies certainly have the talent to afford to be patient with Jackson and not rush him back.
