Grizzlies Lose Another Player to Season-Ending Surgery

Memphis forward Santi Aldama to miss remainder of 2025-26 NBA season after knee procedure

Mar. 17, 2026 at 10:41pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Memphis Grizzlies have suffered another major injury blow, as forward Santi Aldama will miss the rest of the 2025-26 NBA season after undergoing a successful arthroscopic procedure and receiving an orthobiologic injection to address discomfort in his right knee. Aldama, who was enjoying a career-best season, joins several other Grizzlies players on the sidelines as the team's playoff hopes continue to fade.

Why it matters

The Grizzlies have been decimated by injuries this season, with Aldama's season-ending surgery the latest setback. The team is currently 11th in the Western Conference standings, 9.5 games out of the Play-in Tournament picture, making it highly unlikely they'll reach the postseason. Aldama's absence will create more opportunities for younger players like GG Jackson and Olivier-Maxence Prosper, but the Grizzlies' struggles highlight the challenges of navigating an NBA season with key players sidelined.

The details

Aldama, 25, last played in a game on Feb. 4 against the Sacramento Kings. He was having a career-best season, averaging 14.0 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game in 43 appearances, including 11 starts. The Grizzlies' decision to have Aldama undergo the procedure now rather than waiting until the offseason suggests they have accepted their long-shot playoff hopes and want to ensure he's fully healthy for the 2026-27 campaign.

  • Aldama last played in a game on February 4, 2026.
  • Aldama underwent a successful arthroscopic procedure and received an orthobiologic injection on March 16, 2026.

The players

Santi Aldama

A 25-year-old forward for the Memphis Grizzlies who was enjoying a career-best season before being ruled out for the remainder of the 2025-26 campaign due to a knee injury.

GG Jackson

A young player for the Memphis Grizzlies who is expected to see increased minutes following Aldama's season-ending injury.

Olivier-Maxence Prosper

Another young player for the Memphis Grizzlies who will likely receive more playing time with Aldama sidelined.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“'Grizzlies forward Santi Aldama underwent a successful arthrosporic procedure and receive an orthobiologic injection today to address discomfort in his right knee. He will miss the rest of the 2025-2026 season and is expected to be healthy for the start of the 2026-2027 season.'”

— Brett Siegel, ClutchPoints reporter (ClutchPoints)

What’s next

The Grizzlies will continue to evaluate their roster and playing rotation as they look to finish the season strong despite the numerous injuries they have faced.

The takeaway

The Grizzlies' injury woes have been a major storyline this season, and Aldama's season-ending surgery is the latest blow. While it's a disappointing development, the team's decision to have him undergo the procedure now rather than waiting suggests they are focused on ensuring he is fully healthy for the 2026-27 campaign rather than chasing a long-shot playoff berth this year.