Jazz's Jaren Jackson Jr. to Undergo Knee Surgery After Trade

Injury discovered during post-trade physical will sideline the All-Star forward indefinitely.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Utah Jazz forward Jaren Jackson Jr. will undergo surgery during the NBA All-Star break after a post-trade physical revealed a growth in his left knee. Jackson, who was recently acquired from the Memphis Grizzlies in an eight-player deal, consulted with medical professionals and the team says they will provide an update on his return timeline after the procedure.

Why it matters

Jackson was a key part of the Jazz's recent trade with the rebuilding Grizzlies, so this injury is a significant setback for Utah as they look to integrate their new roster. The 2023 NBA Defensive Player of the Year was off to a strong start with his new team, averaging over 19 points per game in his first three contests.

The details

The growth detected in Jackson's left knee is a localized pigmented villonodular synovitis, a rare and often painful joint condition. He will undergo surgery during the All-Star break to address the issue, though the team has not provided a timeline for his return to the court.

  • Jackson was traded from the Memphis Grizzlies to the Utah Jazz on February 9, 2026.
  • The injury was discovered during Jackson's post-trade physical on February 10, 2026.
  • Jackson will undergo surgery during the NBA All-Star break in mid-February 2026.

The players

Jaren Jackson Jr.

A 24-year-old power forward who was recently traded from the Memphis Grizzlies to the Utah Jazz. He was the 2023 NBA Defensive Player of the Year.

Utah Jazz

An NBA team based in Salt Lake City, Utah that acquired Jaren Jackson Jr. in a recent eight-player trade with the Memphis Grizzlies.

Memphis Grizzlies

An NBA team based in Memphis, Tennessee that traded Jaren Jackson Jr. to the Utah Jazz as part of a larger eight-player deal.

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What they’re saying

“We are disappointed to learn of Jaren's injury, but our medical staff is working closely with him to ensure a full recovery. We will provide an update on his return timeline after the surgery.”

— Jazz Team Spokesperson (wbal.com)

What’s next

The Jazz will provide an update on Jaren Jackson Jr.'s recovery timeline after his surgery during the NBA All-Star break.

The takeaway

This injury is a significant setback for the Jazz, who were counting on Jackson to be a key part of their roster after acquiring him in a major trade. His absence will force the team to adjust their plans and find ways to fill the void left by the absence of the 2023 Defensive Player of the Year.