Grizzlies lose Marc Gasol for the Rest of the Season to Foot Injury

The Memphis Grizzlies have announced that Marc Gasol will be out for the rest of the season after undergoing foot surgery this past Saturday.

"Marc remains a cornerstone of our franchise and we are pleased to hear that the surgery went according to plan," Grizzlies general manager Chris Wallace said in a press release. "Marc's determination and competitive spirit will serve him, his family and the team well as he begins the healing and rehab process from which we expect him to make a full recovery. We are confident we will have Marc back anchoring our team next season and beyond."

Teammate Mike Conley added, reported by NBA.com, "We know this is a difficult time for Marc and want to be supportive of him during his recovery. His presence is still felt greatly within the locker room, and even while he is sidelined, he is still leading us as we push forward."

Gasol, who needed a "non-displaced Type II fracture of the navicular bone" in his right foot fixed, has expressed his frustrations about not being able to help his team secure a position in the playoffs. Although the Grizzlies are currently fifth in the Western Conference, other teams, such as the Dallas Mavericks, the Houston Rockets and the Utah Jazz, have a shot at pushing the Grizzlies out of their spot.

"It is frustrating to not be on the court with my teammates at this time," the All-Star Center said. "But I understand that the focus of this process is on long-term health and stability. I look forward to the road ahead and a full and successful recovery."

Gasol has not played in a game since Feb. 8, when he sustained the injury while playing against the Portland Trail Blazers.

Gasol averaged 16.6 points with 7.0 rebounds and 1.3 blocks in 52 games this season.

It is unclear whether or not he would be ready to compete for his home country, Spain, in the upcoming Rio Olympics.