/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/58149425/usa_today_9994539.0.jpg)
According to statements from Mark Turgeon, Maryland sophomore forward Justin Jackson has a torn labrum and will miss the remainder of the season. Turgeon discussed the issue with the media on Thursday.
Jackson returned to Maryland last summer after briefly considering entering the 2017 NBA Draft. While he wasn’t considered a Lottery prospect, many thought he would have been drafted, should he have declared after last season.
During this season, Jackson averaged 29.4 minutes, 9.8 points, and 8.1 rebounds per game. He was particularly impressive on the boards, with a 19.7 defensive rebounding rate and an 11.3 offensive rebounding rate. Jackson also had a 2.8 blocking rate.
There’s little denying that Jackson’s injury is a substantial one for Maryland and its hopes this season. The team is 11-3 overall and was looking like it could be starting to turn the corner in recent weeks. To lose a key starter with boatloads of potential doesn’t exactly serve as an encouraging note for that momentum.
The players who will likely fill in for Jackson’s void will be Ivan Bender and Jared Nickens. Neither has been fantastic this season, but both are experienced options on the wing and should be able to hold their own. Darryl Morsell could also see increased minutes at the small forward position with Jackson’s absence.
Fans will have to stay tuned to see what happens in the coming weeks.