The Utah Jazz made one of the most shocking moves of the NBA trade deadline this year. The team sent multiple players and first-round picks to the Memphis Grizzlies in exchange for big man Jaren Jackson Jr.
The hope is that Jackson gives the Jazz another reliable scorer and helps the team crawl out of the basement. However, that won’t be happening this season, as Jackson recently received some unfortunate health news.
Jaren Jackson Jr. Having Surgery and Could Miss Remainder of the Season
Since being acquired by the Jazz, Jackson has played in three games and is averaging 22.3 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 2.0 steals. The Jazz has won two of the three games Jackson has played in.
However, it was reported on Thursday that Jackson is dealing with a pigmented villonodular synovitis (PVNS) growth in his left knee that will require surgery. The operation will reportedly take place over the All-Star break.
Breaking: Jaren Jackson Jr. will undergo surgery to remove a localized pigmented villonodular synovitis (PVNS) growth in his left knee, the Jazz announced.
The procedure will take place in the coming days over NBA All-Star break. pic.twitter.com/0yVdhzIOAH
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) February 12, 2026
Jazz insider Andy Larsen added that the team is not “giving a timetable,” but fellow NBA insider Chris Haynes says Jackson is likely out for the season.
Jazz officially announce Jaren Jackson Jr. will undergo surgery for a knee tumor. They’re not giving a timetable, but Chris Haynes is saying likely out for the season.
— Andy Larsen (@andyblarsen) February 12, 2026
It’s unfortunate for Jackson, as he had been playing so well since arriving in Utah. The Jazz discovered the tumor during Jackson’s post-trade physical and went through with the trade anyway, so the hope is that this won’t be a long-term issue.
If Jackson doesn’t play again, he’ll end his season averaging 19.4 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 2.0 assists in 48 games with the Grizzlies and three with the Jazz.
Jazz Hoping To Keep Lottery Pick in 2026 NBA Draft
The Jazz have been much improved compared to last season, but the team may not want to be TOO good just yet.
The reason is that the team owes a top-eight protected first-round pick to the Oklahoma City Thunder, meaning if the Jazz land with the ninth pick or later in the lottery, it heads to the Thunder. Currently, the Jazz have the sixth-worst record in the NBA, and if the season ended today, the team would likely keep the pick.
Now, the hope has to be that Jackson is fully healthy for next season when the Jazz should be ready to compete. Jackson will form an intriguing frontcourt combination with Lauri Markkanen and Walker Kessler.
