Utah Jazz forward Jaren Jackson Jr. will undergo surgery to remove a growth in his left knee, the team announced on Thursday. Following this procedure, Jackson will be sidelined for the rest of the 2025-26 NBA season, a source confirmed to ESPN.
Details on the Knee Condition and Discovery
The growth identified in Jackson’s knee is pigmented villonodular synovitis (PVNS), a rare condition detected through an MRI performed after he was traded to the Jazz from the Memphis Grizzlies on February 3. This medical finding prompted the decision for surgery during the upcoming All-Star break.
Performance and Trade Context
Jackson, a two-time NBA All-Star and 2023 Defensive Player of the Year, was averaging 19.4 points and 5.7 rebounds per game this season. In his first three outings with Utah, he posted 22.3 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 2.7 assists in about 24 minutes per game. The Jazz acquired him as part of a large eight-player trade before the deadline, which sent three first-round draft picks and several players, including rookie guard Walter Clayton Jr., to Memphis.
Contract Status and Team Outlook
Last summer, Jackson extended and renegotiated his contract, securing four more years and $205 million, including a $53.5 million player option for the 2029-30 season. Currently, the Utah Jazz hold an 18-37 record, placing them 13th in the Western Conference and eight games behind the nearest play-in spot.
Implications of Jackson’s Surgery for the Jazz
Jackson’s absence will impact Utah’s strategies for the rest of the year, particularly given his defensive presence and scoring ability. As the Jazz look to improve their standings, the focus will shift to next season and how quickly Jackson can recover and resume his role on the team.
