Grizzlies' Pippen Jr. and Aldama Out for Season After Surgeries

Memphis players to miss remainder of 2026 NBA season due to injuries

Mar. 17, 2026 at 11:33pm

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The Memphis Grizzlies announced that guard Scottie Pippen Jr. and forward Santi Aldama will both miss the rest of the 2026 NBA season after undergoing successful surgeries on Tuesday. Pippen had an operation on his right big toe, while Aldama had a procedure and injection to address discomfort in his right knee.

Why it matters

The Grizzlies have struggled this season, losing eight straight games and falling nine games back in the race for the final play-in berth in the Western Conference. The extended absences of Pippen and Aldama are a further blow to the team's playoff hopes, especially with star Ja Morant also missing significant time due to injury.

The details

Pippen had a similar toe procedure in October and didn't make his season debut until last month, averaging 11.4 points in 10 games. Aldama was averaging 14 points and 6.7 rebounds per game before his injury.

  • Pippen and Aldama underwent their surgeries on Tuesday, March 17, 2026.
  • Pippen had a previous toe surgery in October 2025.

The players

Scottie Pippen Jr.

A guard for the Memphis Grizzlies who will miss the remainder of the 2026 NBA season after undergoing surgery on his right big toe.

Santi Aldama

A forward for the Memphis Grizzlies who will miss the rest of the 2026 season after having a procedure and injection to address discomfort in his right knee.

Ja Morant

The star player for the Memphis Grizzlies who has missed the last 25 games with a left elbow injury.

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What’s next

The Grizzlies will look to finish the season strong despite the loss of Pippen and Aldama, with the hope that Ja Morant and the rest of the team can rally to make a late push for the playoffs.

The takeaway

The Grizzlies' injury woes have been a major factor in their struggles this season, and the loss of Pippen and Aldama for the remainder of the year is a significant blow to their playoff aspirations. The team will need to rely on their depth and other key players to try to overcome these setbacks.