Memphis Grizzlies Rookie Jaylen Wells Out for Season After Terrifying Fall
Memphis Grizzlies rookie Jaylen Wells, a standout perimeter defender and Rookie of the Year contender, will miss the remainder of the 2024-25 season after sustaining a broken right wrist, concussion, and facial laceration during a harrowing fall in Tuesday’s game against the Charlotte Hornets. The incident, which left the arena in stunned silence, occurred when Wells was undercut mid-air by Charlotte’s KJ Simpson while attempting a fast-break dunk.
The Incident Wells caught an outlet pass from Ja Morant in the second quarter and elevated for a two-handed dunk when Simpson, trailing the play, inadvertently made contact, causing Wells to lose balance and land violently on his right side. His head struck the court near the baseline, prompting an eight-minute on-court medical evaluation before he was stretchered off with his neck immobilized. The game was delayed for 23 minutes as players from both teams watched in concern. Simpson was ejected after officials ruled the contact a Flagrant 2 foul.
Injury Details and Impact Initial fears of spinal damage were alleviated after scans revealed no neck fractures. However, the 21-year-old forward’s injuries—particularly the wrist fracture—require extended recovery time, sidelining him for the Grizzlies’ playoff push. Wells had been a ironman for Memphis, starting 74 of 79 games and averaging 10.4 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.7 assists while shooting 35.2% from three. His defensive versatility made him a linchpin for the Grizzlies, who now face a critical void in their rotation.
Reactions and Recovery Teammates and fans rallied around Wells, with social media flooded by relief that the injuries weren’t career-threatening. "Considering how bad it looked, this is the best version of bad news," one Reddit user noted. The Grizzlies confirmed Wells is expected to make a full recovery by next season.
Rookie Season Cut Short Wells, the 39th overall pick from Washington State, exceeded expectations, earning Western Conference Rookie of the Month honors twice and a Rising Stars Game selection. His absence deals a blow to Memphis’ playoff aspirations, but his resilience—a hallmark of his rookie campaign—has the franchise optimistic for his return.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.