Jaren Jackson Jr., Lauri Markkanen Injury Updates, Latest News and Return Timelines for Jazz Stars

After having his 2025-26 season cut short by knee surgery, Utah Jazz center Jaren Jackson Jr. has suffered another setback.

The Jazz announced that Jackson suffered a torn MCL in his right knee and will be sidelined for six to eight weeks. ESPN's Shams Charania and Tim MacMahon reported that he will not require surgery. The team also announced that veteran forward Lauri Markkanen is considered day-to-day with a wrist injury.

Jackson exited Monday night's game against the Memphis Grizzlies with 10:04 remaining in the second quarter after injuring his right knee. He had six points, three rebounds and two assists in 10 minutes as the Jazz went on to suffer a 110-105 loss. Markkanen also left the game early after injuring his wrist in the first quarter.

Through Utah's first three games, Jackson averaged 19.7 points and 5.7 rebounds. He was also limited to three games with the Jazz last season after being acquired from the Grizzlies at the trade deadline due to his season-ending knee surgery.

Jackson was once regarded as one of the best two-way big men in the league, earning Defensive Player of the Year honors in 2023. However, he's developed a reputation for being injury-prone, appearing in 70 or more games just twice in his nine-year career.

Without Jackson in the lineup, Jaxson Hayes, Kyle Filipowski and Mo Bamba will be Utah's options at center. Hayes missed Monday's game with a shoulder injury, and Bamba filled in nicely with 14 points, seven rebounds and four blocks.

The Jazz (1-3) will try to get used to life without Jackson when they face the San Antonio Spurs (1-2) on Wednesday.