Grizzlies’ Wells Suffers Season-Ending Injury Before Playoffs

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Memphis Grizzlies starting guard Jaylen Wells suffered a broken right wrist during a game against the Charlotte Hornets on Tuesday, likely sidelining him for the remainder of the season just as the team approaches the playoffs.

Wells sustained the injury after a midair collision while attempting a fast-break dunk. The incident occurred when he was undercut by Hornets guard KJ Simpson, who was subsequently assessed a Flagrant 2 foul after a review of the play.

The 6-foot-7 rookie was on the court for about eight minutes before medical personnel placed him on a stretcher and transported him to a local hospital. Interim coach Tuomas Iisalo reported that Wells demonstrated movement in all extremities prior to his hospitalization.

“It puts everything into perspective. Seeing Jaylen down there, he’s an incredibly tough kid and has had a great season,” Iisalo said. “We just hope for the best.”

Despite the seriousness of the situation, Wells was reportedly alert enough to inquire about the game’s score while being treated. His father, Fred Wells, mentioned that his son was experiencing pain in his face, jaw, and back.

The injury happened following a pass from Ja Morant, which Wells successfully caught before going up for the dunk. The impact of the foul caused him to lose balance, leading to an awkward landing that resulted in a hard fall to the court.

“It’s tough. I threw the pass and turned around for our touchdown celebration,” Morant said. “When I got there, the first thing I saw was blood, and I’ve got a weak stomach. We’ve just got to stay with him and keep praying for him. It’s next man up.”

The game was delayed for 23 minutes as both teams warmed up again. Simpson, upon realizing the severity of the collision, immediately bent down to check on Wells and was visibly upset as medical staff attended to him.

Wells had completed his rookie season thus far without missing a game, starting 74 of 79 contests. Before the injury, he averaged 10.5 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game. The Grizzlies, fighting for position in the crowded Western Conference playoff race, emerged victorious that night but face challenges ahead without Wells.

Information from The Associated Press was utilized in this report.