SALT LAKE CITY, April 8, 2025 – Utah Jazz guard Jordan Clarkson will miss the remainder of the 2024–25 NBA season after undergoing a medical procedure to treat persistent plantar fasciitis in his left foot. The team announced on Thursday that Clarkson had been declared out for the final nine games as he begins his recovery and rehabilitation.
Recurring foot discomfort has affected Clarkson’s 2024–25 season, pushing him in and out of the Jazz roster since the All-Star break. Earlier this season, he missed 10 consecutive games in January and seven straight contests from late November through early December due to flare‑ups of the same condition. Rather than continue to play through the discomfort, Clarkson opted for a surgical intervention to provide long-term relief.
A Season of Highs and Lows for Jordan Clarkson
In his sixth season with Utah, Clarkson appeared in just 37 games, averaging 16.2 points, 3.7 assists, and 3.2 rebounds in 26.0 minutes per contest. His shooting efficiency dipped to a career-low 40.8 percent from the field, reflecting the pain and inconsistency that plantar fasciitis can bring. Nevertheless, Clarkson remained a key offensive option whenever he took the floor, knocking down an average of 2.3 three-pointers per game.
The 32‑year‑old veteran is under a two‑year, $28.38 million contract extension that runs through the 2025–26 season, with a salary of $14.2 million due next year. His absence leaves a significant scoring void for a Jazz team that has struggled throughout the season. Utah’s current record of 16–57 places them on pace for the worst finish in franchise history, underscoring the challenges the club faces on multiple fronts.
Why is Jordan Clarkson under surgery now?
Plantar fasciitis—an inflammation of the thick band of tissue running across the bottom of the foot—can be debilitating for basketball players, whose sport demands constant running, jumping, and quick direction changes. After conservative treatments failed to provide lasting relief, Clarkson and the Jazz medical staff determined that a more definitive solution was necessary.
“Jordan has shown tremendous courage battling this injury all season,” Jazz head coach Will Hardy said. “We’re hopeful that this procedure will allow him to return stronger and pain-free next season.”
Impact on the Utah Jazz
Clarkson’s unavailability has compounded Utah’s struggles. The team’s offense has lacked consistency, and rotations have been shuffled as the coaching staff searches for reliable scoring options. Role players such as Talen Horton‑Tucker and Kelly Olynyk will likely see increased minutes down the stretch, while the Jazz front office may explore additional roster moves to bolster depth.
Clarkson’s leadership and veteran presence will be missed off the court in the locker room. Known for his infectious energy and ability to connect with teammates, Clarkson has been a clubhouse favorite since joining Utah in 2018.
When Will Jordan Clarkson Return?
While the timeline for Clarkson’s comeback has not been publicly detailed, NBA medical experts suggest a typical recovery period for this type of foot procedure ranges from 4 to 6 months. If Clarkson’s rehabilitation progresses without setbacks, fans could realistically anticipate his return during the 2025–26 preseason or at the start of the regular season in October.
Clarkson himself remains optimistic. In a statement released by the team, he expressed gratitude for the organization’s support and his eagerness to get back on the court. “I’m committed to doing everything I can to come back stronger,” Clarkson said. “I appreciate the patience of our fans and can’t wait to help the Jazz compete again.”
KEYWORDS
Jordan Clarkson injury, Utah Jazz news, plantar fasciitis surgery, NBA season-ending injury, Clarkson return timeline, Jazz roster update
