Memphis Grizzlies fans were able to let out a collective sigh of relief following updates from Jaylen Wells and his dad on social media.
On Tuesday night, Wells suffered a scary-looking injury during the Grizzlies’ game against the Charlotte Hornets at Spectrum Center in Charlotte, N.C. The Memphis rookie rose up for what appeared to be an uncontested dunk with about a minute left in the second quarter. Hornets guard KJ Simpson undercut Wells from behind, which led the latter to crash violently onto the hardwood (video here).
The 21-year-old was eventually taken off the floor in a stretcher and transported to a nearby medical facility. Wells’ father, Fred Wells, went on X to share an update on his son’s condition. Jaylen was alert enough to be curious about how his team performed against the Hornets without him. The Grizzlies beat the Hornets 124-100.
“Jaylen is awake and alert,” wrote Fred. “Wanted 2 [sic] know the score! Swollen wrist. Face, jaw and back pain. About to get X-ray and CT.”
Jaylen even felt well enough to post on his own social media accounts. He posted a selfie on his Instagram story with a two-word caption.
“Go Grizz,” Wells’ caption read.
Jaylen Wells on Instagram: pic.twitter.com/vwjhGh7iDL
— Drew Hill (@DrewHill_DM) April 9, 2025
Wells has arguably been the biggest steal of the 2024 draft. The second-round pick has averaged 10.5 points and 3.5 rebounds for a postseason-bound Grizzlies team. The Washington State alum even won the Western Conference Rookie of the Month award in November.
The 6’7″ swingman has played in all 79 of Memphis’ games so far this season. He earned his first start only five games into the year and has held onto his place in the starting lineup ever since.
