The Utah Jazz will be without one of their most important frontcourt players for an extended stretch after star big man Jaren Jackson Jr. suffered a torn medial collateral ligament (MCL) in his right knee.
ESPN NBA insider Shams Charania reported Tuesday that Jackson is expected to miss six to eight weeks. The injury will not require surgery. The Jazz announced that Jackson will be re-evaluated in six weeks.
Jackson sustained the injury during Monday night’s 110–105 loss to the Memphis Grizzlies, exiting in the second quarter and not returning to the game.
The two-time NBA All-Star has averaged 16.3 points, 5.0 rebounds and 1.3 blocks through four games this season, providing Utah with an important scoring presence and rim protection.
Jackson’s absence creates another challenge for a Jazz frontcourt already dealing with injury concerns. Forward Lauri Markkanen also suffered a right wrist sprain against Memphis and was listed as day-to-day.
With Jackson sidelined for much of November and potentially into December, Utah will need other players to step up on both ends of the floor while its star forward-center works toward recovery.
Although avoiding surgery is encouraging, Jackson’s return will depend on his rehabilitation and the team’s medical evaluations.
