Jazz's Jaren Jackson Jr. Undergoes Knee Surgery, Recovery Ahead

The 26-year-old forward will miss the rest of the season after a growth was discovered in his left knee.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Utah Jazz forward Jaren Jackson Jr. underwent surgery on Tuesday to remove a growth in his left knee. The operation was performed by Dr. Travis Maak, and the team plans to begin Jackson's rehabilitation soon, with a follow-up evaluation scheduled in four weeks to assess his progress. Jackson was acquired by the Jazz in an eight-player deal with the Memphis Grizzlies on February 3rd, but his minutes had been medically restricted due to the knee issue.

Why it matters

Jaren Jackson Jr. was a key acquisition for the Jazz, who view him as a central figure alongside Lauri Markkanen in their future lineup. His recovery and return to the court will be crucial for Utah's plans as they aim to strengthen their roster and make a push in the playoffs.

The details

The growth in Jackson's knee was identified as pigmented villonodular synovitis, a localized mass requiring surgical removal. Due to this condition, ESPN reported last week that Jackson is expected to miss the rest of the season. Since joining Utah, Jackson has appeared in three games but had been limited in playing time, fueling speculation about the team's intentions. However, ESPN sources have clarified that his minutes were medically restricted.

  • On Tuesday, Jaren Jackson Jr. underwent surgery in Salt Lake City.
  • The operation was performed by Dr. Travis Maak.
  • The team plans to begin Jackson's rehabilitation soon.
  • A follow-up evaluation is scheduled in four weeks to assess his progress.

The players

Jaren Jackson Jr.

A 26-year-old forward for the Utah Jazz. He was acquired by the Jazz in an eight-player deal with the Memphis Grizzlies on February 3rd.

Dr. Travis Maak

The surgeon who performed the operation on Jaren Jackson Jr.'s knee.

Lauri Markkanen

A key player for the Utah Jazz, who the team views as a central figure alongside Jaren Jackson Jr. in their future lineup.

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What’s next

The team plans to begin Jackson's rehabilitation soon, with a follow-up evaluation scheduled in four weeks to assess his progress.

The takeaway

Jaren Jackson Jr.'s injury and recovery timeline will be a critical factor for the Utah Jazz as they look to build a strong roster and make a push in the playoffs. The team's ability to successfully rehabilitate Jackson and integrate him into their lineup will be key to their future success.