Just one day after inking Jaren Jackson. Jr to a lucrative extension, the Memphis Grizzlies might have to wait a bit before seeing a return on their investment.
The former Defensive Player of the Year will undergo a procedure to repair a right toe injury suffered during an off-site workout, Memphis announced Tuesday.
Jackson Jr. was participating in a live basketball run away from the Grizzlies’ facilities and suffered a turf toe injury, but is expected to make a full recovery.
Memphis added that they will provide a timeline for his return after surgery.
The news comes after Jackson and the Grizzlies reportedly agreed on a massive five-year, $240 million extension — which includes a player option for the 2029-30 season.
The 25-year-old Jackson, a first-round draft pick in 2018, earned his second All-Star selection last season when he established himself as one of the best two-way players in the NBA in recent years. He averaged 22.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, 1.5 blocks and 1.2 steals while shooting 48.8 per cent from the field and 37.5 per cent from long range.
According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, extending Jackson Jr. was a priority for the Grizzlies this off-season after they traded away guard Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic. With that earlier move, Memphis cleared $36.7 million off its books for the 2025-26 season.
In addition to signing Jackson Jr., the Grizzlies re-upped with depth forward Santi Aldama on a three-year, $52.5 million deal, securing their frontcourt for the next few seasons. Meanwhile, Memphis also added Ty Jerome on a three-year, $28 million deal to provide some much-needed guard and shooting depth.
Originally drafted by the Grizzlies fourth overall in 2018, he, along with guard Ja Morant, have established themselves as cornerstones for a Grizzlies team hoping to make a deep run in the Western Conference playoffs.
— with files from the Associated Press
