Andrew Pace
Ja Morant is a highly promising young star of the NBA's Memphis Grizzlies, known for his athleticism and playmaking ability. However, his career has been blighted by injuries, causing him to miss 56 games across the 2023-24 and 2024-25 seasons. Morant's latest injury, a hip contusion, saw him exit Thursday's game against the Oklahoma City Thunder and miss Saturday's Game 4. So, when will he return to basketball?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Return Date | 2024-25 season |
| Reason for Absence | Hip injury, shoulder injury, suspension |
| Games Missed | 9 games in 2023-24 season |
| Status | Week-to-week |
| Next Opportunity to Play | Game 5 on Monday |
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What You'll Learn
Ja Morant's hip injury
Ja Morant, the Memphis Grizzlies' star guard, suffered a hip injury during a game against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Thursday. This injury occurred in the second quarter of Game 3, when Morant landed hard on his left hip after being undercut by Thunder forward Lu Dort while attempting a dunk. As a result of the injury, Morant was forced to sit out Game 4 of the Grizzlies' series against the Thunder, which they lost.
Morant's injury history includes multiple incidents beyond his control, such as a ball being thrown at his ankle, landing on someone's foot, and being hit in the air. Despite these setbacks, Morant considers the 2024-25 season to be one of his healthiest, free from back or knee pain.
The Grizzlies faced criticism for their late-season collapse, which ended their playoff run earlier than expected. Morant's absence in Game 4 left a significant gap in their offensive strategy, with the team relying on Desmond Bane and Scotty Pippen for increased production.
Morant's injury was diagnosed as a left hip contusion, and he was spotted on crutches in the tunnel during the fourth quarter of Game 4. Fortunately, the injury was not severe, and Grizzlies interim coach Tuomas Iisalo expressed relief that Morant had avoided a major issue.
While there is no definite return date for Morant, his next opportunity to play, if the Grizzlies win, would be in Game 5 on Monday. His return will be highly anticipated, as he is known for his athleticism and playmaking ability, averaging impressive statistics in points, assists, rebounds, and steals.
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Morant's suspension
Morant's absence due to a hip injury was notable during the Grizzlies' series against the Oklahoma City Thunder. He missed Game 3, where he sustained the injury, and was ruled out for Game 4, a win-or-go-home matchup. The Grizzlies' loss in that game resulted in the Thunder sweeping the series. Morant's injury status and potential suspension were closely monitored by the NBA, as his actions in a game against the Warriors were under scrutiny. However, it was ultimately decided that he would not be suspended.
The Grizzlies' performance during Morant's absence highlights his importance to the team. They struggled to fill the void left by their star point guard, who is known for his athleticism and playmaking abilities. Despite bringing in Marcus Smart as part of a three-team deal, the Grizzlies missed Morant's offensive production and leadership on the court. Morant's suspension and injuries have had a significant impact on the Grizzlies' standing and performance, underscoring the urgency of his return to basketball.
While Morant's injuries and suspension have been setbacks, his return to the court is highly anticipated. The Grizzlies are eager to have their superstar back, as they aim to climb up the Western Conference standings and make a strong comeback in the 2024-25 season. Morant's availability and health will be crucial to the team's success, and they will be relying on him to lead their offense and make a significant impact. With Morant back in the lineup, the Grizzlies have the potential to reach their goal of bringing a championship to Memphis.
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Morant's shoulder injury
Ja Morant, the Memphis Grizzlies star, suffered a shoulder injury during a game against the New Orleans Pelicans on Friday, 28 December 2024. The injury occurred when Morant crashed into a hard but legal screen set by Pelicans center Daniel Theis during the third quarter. Morant left the game early with 25 points and seven assists and underwent an evaluation for his injury.
The Grizzlies announced on Monday that Morant had suffered a Grade 1 AC joint sprain in his right shoulder. This type of injury is also known as a shoulder subluxation, which involves cartilage damage and can cause pain and instability in the shoulder. The injury resulted in Morant being ruled out for Game 4 of the NBA Playoffs against the OKC Thunder on Saturday, 31 December 2024, and he was considered week-to-week.
Morant had previously dealt with a shoulder injury during the 2023-24 season, which caused him to miss most of the season. He underwent surgery to repair a labral tear in his right shoulder in January 2024 and was cleared to return before the start of the 2024-25 season. However, re-injuring his shoulder so soon after surgery is a concern for Grizzlies fans and the team.
While there is no definitive timetable for Morant's return, the average time lost following surgery for a labrum injury is approximately 156 days (20 weeks or 5 months). With Morant out, the Grizzlies will rely on players like Desmond Bane and Scotty Pippen Jr. to step up their offensive production. It is expected that Morant will return to his starting point guard position when he is healthy and eligible to play again.
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The Grizzlies' 2024-25 season
The Memphis Grizzlies' 2024-25 season is highly dependent on the return of their star point guard, Ja Morant, who has been plagued by injuries in recent seasons. Morant, the 2018-19 OVC Player of the Year and Consensus All-American, has only played nine games in the 2023-24 season due to various injuries. He was on track to return to form in the 2024-25 season until he suffered another setback with a Grade 1 AC joint sprain. The Grizzlies provided an update, calling his recovery week-to-week.
Despite their struggles, the Grizzlies remain focused on their goal of bringing a championship to Memphis with Morant leading the way. Morant's availability is crucial to the team's success, and they have found ways to win without him at times. In his limited appearances in the 2024-25 season, Morant showed promising signs, averaging 18.3 points, 5.0 assists, and 2.0 rebounds across 27.3 minutes per game. He also recorded 13 double-doubles and one triple-double, showcasing his potential impact.
The Grizzlies made significant roster moves during the offseason to support Morant's return. They acquired Marcus Smart in a three-team deal to bolster their point guard position and provide veteran leadership. Additionally, young players like Desmond Bane, GG Jackson II and Vince Williams Jr. emerged as bright spots and are expected to contribute more in the 2024-25 season. The team's front office is also actively pursuing another big man to add depth to their roster.
The key to the Grizzlies' success in the 2024-25 season lies in Morant's health and consistency. If he can stay on the court and perform at his peak level, the team has the potential to achieve their championship aspirations. Morant's impact on the court is undeniable, and his presence elevates the entire Grizzlies franchise. With a mix of veteran leadership, young talent, and a healthy Morant, the Grizzlies are poised to make a strong statement in the 2024-25 season and beyond.
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Morant's return as a key to Memphis' success
The Memphis Grizzlies' success hinges on the return of their star point guard, Ja Morant, who has been sidelined by injuries and suspension over the past couple of seasons. In the 2023-24 season, Morant played only nine games, and the Grizzlies finished with a disappointing 27-55 record. The following season, Morant was working his way back to form, but his campaign was cut short again due to a Grade 1 AC joint sprain.
Morant's injury woes continued into the 2024-25 season, with a hip contusion forcing him to miss Game 4 of the Grizzlies' series against the Oklahoma City Thunder in the NBA Playoffs. The Grizzlies were swept by the Thunder, and Morant's absence was keenly felt. Despite their struggles, the Grizzlies remain optimistic about their future with Morant at the helm. His return to health is crucial for the team's aspirations of contending for a championship and re-establishing themselves as a top team in the Western Conference.
Morant's talent is undeniable, as evidenced by his impressive statistics in the 2022-23 season, where he averaged 27.4 points, 10.0 assists, 5.7 rebounds, and 1.8 steals. His athleticism and playmaking ability make him a pivotal figure in the Grizzlies' offense. With his ability to create scoring opportunities and involve his teammates, Morant elevates the Grizzlies' offensive prowess. Moreover, his presence on the court provides a psychological boost to the team, as they have demonstrated their ability to win with him leading the charge.
The Grizzlies' front office has expressed their confidence in Morant, acknowledging his importance to the team's success. General Manager Zach Kleiman has praised Morant's progress, both on and off the court, and is committed to building a roster that maximizes his talents. With Morant's health improving and his suspension already served, the Grizzlies can focus on strategizing and strengthening their lineup to make the most of his return.
The return of Ja Morant is pivotal for the Memphis Grizzlies' aspirations of achieving success in the highly competitive Western Conference. With a healthy Morant, the Grizzlies possess a superstar talent capable of leading them deep into the playoffs and potentially bringing a championship to the city of Memphis.
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Frequently asked questions
Ja Morant suffered a hip injury during a game against the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Morant sustained a left hip injury in the second quarter of Thursday's Game 3 loss to the Thunder.
Yes, Morant's injury impacted the Grizzlies' performance, and they were swept by the Thunder in the first-round playoff series.
Ja Morant returned to the court for the 2024-25 season after missing most of the 2023-24 season due to injuries.
In his return, Morant averaged 15 points per game on 52% shooting over two preseason appearances, indicating a strong comeback.
