Memphis, TN – The Memphis Grizzlies will be without forward Santi Aldama for the remainder of the 2025-26 NBA season. The Spanish player will undergo an arthroscopic procedure on his right knee, the team announced Monday, bringing an end to a promising campaign for the 25-year-old.
The timing of the surgery comes as the Grizzlies navigate a challenging season, already eliminated from playoff contention. Aldama’s absence allows him to focus on recovery during the offseason, a decision that aligns with the franchise’s current rebuilding phase. The team confirmed Aldama will also receive an orthobiologic injection to address discomfort in his right knee.
Aldama, a key figure in the Grizzlies’ future plans, was one of the few remaining players from the previous roster following a series of recent trades. The franchise has signaled a commitment to a complete rebuild, and Aldama is expected to be a central part of that process. He signed a contract extension last summer, demonstrating his desire to remain with the organization long-term, following in the footsteps of Spanish basketball legends like Pau Gasol, Juan Carlos Navarro, and Marc Gasol who have donned a Grizzlies uniform.
In 43 games played this season – 11 as a starter – Aldama averaged 14.0 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 2.9 assists, all career highs. He shot 48% from the field and 35% from three-point range, establishing himself as a valuable contributor in the Grizzlies’ rotation. His increasing role within the team underscored his potential as a cornerstone player for years to reach. Still, Aldama has been sidelined since February 4th, appearing in only 10 games in 2026, prompting the decision to undergo surgery.
The Grizzlies, currently 23-43, sit 11th in the Western Conference and are eight games out of the play-in tournament. The team is increasingly relying on players from the G League to fill out the roster as they evaluate talent for the future. Meanwhile, the organization continues to address the situation surrounding Ja Morant, with his future with the team remaining uncertain. [1]
Aldama’s injury and subsequent surgery represent a setback for both the player and the team. However, with a clear path forward for the franchise’s rebuild, and Aldama’s commitment to the organization, the hope is that he will return fully healthy and ready to contribute to a brighter future for the Memphis Grizzlies.
The forward’s development has been closely watched by NBA analysts, and his ability to stretch the floor with his shooting while also providing interior defense makes him a valuable asset in the modern NBA. His versatility allows him to play both power forward and center, adding to his appeal as a long-term building block.
The arthroscopic procedure is intended to address the underlying issue causing the discomfort in Aldama’s knee, and the orthobiologic injection is designed to promote healing and reduce inflammation. The recovery timeline will be determined following the surgery, but the team is optimistic that Aldama will be fully recovered in time for the start of the 2026-27 season.
Aldama’s journey to the NBA began in Las Palmas, Spain, where he started playing basketball at the age of three, inspired by his father, Santiago Aldama, and uncle, Santi Toledo, both professional basketball players. [2] He honed his skills at Canterbury Academy before playing college basketball at Loyola (Maryland), where he earned first-team All-Patriot League honors in 2021. He was then drafted 30th overall by the Utah Jazz in the 2021 NBA draft before being traded to the Grizzlies.
The Grizzlies will continue to evaluate their roster and explore options for improving the team through the draft and free agency. The focus will be on building a sustainable contender around young players like Aldama, when healthy, and other emerging talents. The team’s front office faces a significant challenge in navigating the rebuilding process, but they remain committed to bringing success back to Memphis.
Aldama’s absence will undoubtedly be felt on the court, but the Grizzlies are confident that they can weather the storm and emerge stronger in the years to come. The team’s next game is against the Chicago Bulls on Monday, and Aldama will be unavailable for that contest. [3] Updates on Aldama’s recovery will be provided as they become available.
What’s Next: The Memphis Grizzlies will continue their season without Santi Aldama, focusing on player development and evaluating their roster. Fans can stay updated on team news and Aldama’s recovery progress through the official Grizzlies website and social media channels.
