Just hours after locking in a massive five-year, $250 million NBA extension, Jaren Jackson Jr. is headed for the medical table.
The Memphis Grizzlies announced Tuesday that Jackson suffered a turf toe injury during an off-site basketball session and now requires a procedure. While the team expects a full recovery, the timeline for his return remains unclear, a worrisome development considering the timing.
Grizzlies Secure Jackson—Then Get Hit with Bad News
The 25-year-old former NBA Defensive Player of the Year was set to be the centerpiece of Memphis’ future. Drafted fourth overall in 2018, Jackson averaged 22.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, 1.5 blocks, and 1.2 steals last season, earning his second career All-Star selection. He helped lead the Grizzlies into the playoffs via the play-in, although they were swept by eventual champions Oklahoma City Thunder.
Jackson’s new deal, worth about $48 million per year, had just been finalized when the injury news broke. Further casting a shadow over what should have been a celebratory moment for Memphis fans.
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Injury Hits During Major Free Agency Moves
Jackson’s injury wasn’t the only shake-up in the NBA this week. The Milwaukee Bucks waived Damian Lillard after his Achilles injury. However, they stretched the remaining $112.6 million on his contract over five years. Meanwhile, Myles Turner inked a $107 million deal with the Bucks.
Over in Oklahoma City, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander secured the biggest bag of all. A four-year, $285 million extension, setting the new bar for the highest annual salary in NBA history.
With free agency in full swing and injuries already reshaping rosters, the NBA offseason is anything but quiet.
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