The Memphis Grizzlies' All-Star forward was rewarded for having his best two seasons of his career with a five-year, $240 million contract extension this summer. However, almost immediately after the deal was announced, the organization announced that Jaren Jackson Jr. sustained a turf toe injury in his right foot that required surgery.
He underwent surgery on July 2nd, and it was revealed that he would be reevaluated in 12 weeks, which would mean an update on his status is expected around September 24th. With that timing coming less than a week before media day and the start of training camp, Jackson Jr. could have an opportunity to return to the court before the start of the season if everything goes well.
However, there is potential that he has to miss the start of the season, and with a team that takes the conservative route with injuries, it's expected. If Jaren has to miss any regular season time, the team will have to rely on the following players to step up in his absence.
1. Santi Aldama
The 6'11" multi-positional forward has been getting the call to start in place of Jaren Jackson Jr. since the beginning of the 2022-23 season. That season saw Jackson Jr. miss the first 14 games after offseason foot surgery, and a then-second-year Santi Aldama stepped in to provide 18 points and 11 rebounds in his first career start.
He has improved since then and became a Sixth Man of the Year candidate last season before a mid-season calf injury slowed his progress. He also received an extension with the Grizzlies this summer, after securing a three-year, $52.5 million deal before testing the waters of restricted free agency. The Grizzlies believe he is a part of their core, so he will be asked to step up if Jackson Jr. isn't ready to start the season again.
2. GG Jackson II
The third-year forward had a good rookie year campaign, but suffered a broken foot injury that set him back during his second season. Immaturity issues also transpired off the court due to his lack of playing time down the stretch of the season, which had many wondering if the Grizzlies would prioritize him as part of their future.
However, new head coach Tuomas Iisalo has vowed to get the best out of the talented forward as his potential is something that can't be ignored. GG Jackson will be in competition for the starting small forward position this season, but if Jaren Jackson Jr. has to miss time, he will likely garner backup power forward minutes with his 6'9" frame.