Jaylen Wells Injury Update: Grizzlies Rookie Faces Tough Road Ahead Following Scary Fall Against Hornets
Jaylen Wells fell during a tough game against the Hornets. The Memphis Grizzlies rookie jumped to dunk and then hit the floor hard. Doctors now say he broke his right wrist, got a concussion, and cut his face. He must sit out the rest of the season. Before his fall, he played all 79 games. He scored 10.4 points, grabbed 3.7 rebounds, and made 1.7 assists every game. His shots came in at 42.5% from the floor and 35.2% from long range.
The injury happened in the second quarter of a clear win, 124-100, over the Hornets. Hornets guard KJ Simpson bumped into him by mistake. As Wells jumped, Simpson undercut him. Wells landed harshly. After the game, Simpson posted on social media, saying, “I know we already spoke and are good friends, but I just wanted to express how deeply sorry I am. I would never purposely do that to anyone. I’m just extremely sorry.” Wells replied, "Much love brother." Simpson added, “Especially with the talent J has. I know he’s gonna be special. I’m just blessed to know he’s an even better person with an amazing story. Again, I can’t say it enough — I’m really sorry to J and his family.”
The Grizzlies now have a record of 47-33. They have two games left in the regular season. They sit as the No. 7 team in the Western Conference. If the playoffs began today, they would face the Minnesota Timberwolves in a play-in game.
With Wells out, rookie Zach Edey must step up. Edey brings 9.3 points and leads the team with 8.2 rebounds per game. He also blocks 1.3 shots on average. His play will be key as the Grizzlies prepare for the postseason.
The Memphis organization and its fans now rally behind Wells. They hope he recovers quickly and returns fully to the game.
