Memphis Grizzlies provide injury update on Ja Morant

Memphis Grizzlies point guard Ja Morant is still recovering from a hand injury he sustained in the first game of their playoff series against the Los Angeles Lakers. As he recovers, he is still listed as questionable for the upcoming Game 3 against the Lakers.

Morant sustained the hand injury in Game 1 of their first-round NBA Playoffs matchup when he collided midair with Lakers center player Anthony Davis. The collision caused him to land awkwardly on his outstretched right hand.

ESPN

2023-04-22 15:47

Ja Morant headed to the locker room with an apparent injury after this play. https://t.co/MZOrSN9Tmz

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Morant promptly exited the game with evident discomfort and went to the locker room. After Game 1, medical staff conducted X-rays on Morant’s hand, which came back negative and diagnosed him with a soft tissue bruise.

During Game 2, Morant could be seen on the bench with a protective glove covering his injured hand. Despite the absence of their All-Star point guard, the Grizzlies managed to defeat the Lakers, evening the series at 1-1.

Possibility of Morant returning for Game 3

On Friday, the team revealed that Morant is progressing toward his return to the court. His full participation on the same day is a significant development.

ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne reported that he took part in a non-contact practice where he focused on shooting and dribbling.

“Grizz will make a decision at game time but [Head Coach] Jenkins said Morant’s hand is a lot better than 2 days ago,” Shelburne said.

The availability of Morant in Game 3 is crucial for the Grizzlies, who can regain home-court advantage after their Game 1 victory in Memphis. Although he won’t be at full strength, analysts maintained that there is a high likelihood that he will play.

Memphis’ other key players, including Steven Adams and Brandon Clarke, are absent for the entirety of their playoff run.

Therefore, losing their All-Star point guard could negatively influence the Grizzlies’ chances of winning in the playoffs.

The series now moves to Los Angeles for the next two games, and the hope is that all eligible players will be able to suit up and help maintain a tied series going into Game 5 in Memphis.