Jaren Jackson Jr. successfully underwent surgery Tuesday morning to remove a localized pigmented villonodular synovitis (PVNS) growth in his left knee, according to an announcement from the Utah Jazz. The operation was performed in Salt Lake City by Dr. Travis Maak, the team’s lead orthopedic physician, following the discovery of the growth during an MRI administered as part of Jackson’s post-trade physical.
Recovery Timeline and Season Outlook
Jackson, 26, who was acquired from Memphis at the trade deadline, is set to begin rehabilitation immediately. The team plans to reexamine his condition in about four weeks. However, the Jazz anticipate that Jackson will miss the remainder of the NBA season, aiming for him to return fully healthy for the upcoming training camp this fall. Before being sidelined, Jackson played three games with Utah, averaging 22.3 points, 4.3 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 2.0 steals in 24 minutes per game.
Medical Perspective on PVNS and Team Adjustments
The pigmented villonodular synovitis condition is noncancerous but progressive, and according to information from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, it can lead to joint damage if left untreated. Surgery is generally required to excise the problematic tissue. After consulting multiple experts along with Jackson and his representatives, the compassionate decision was made to proceed with surgery to address the condition promptly.
With Jackson expected to be out for the season, second-year forward Cody Williams has stepped back into the Jazz’s starting lineup and is projected to maintain this role for the foreseeable future as the team adapts to Jackson’s absence.
Jaren Jackson Jr. Undergoes Knee Surgery https://t.co/ic9OPez5nH pic.twitter.com/Xyllw7NcjX
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) February 17, 2026
