Ja Morant’s Anticipated Return and the Grizzlies’ Hopes
As the Memphis Grizzlies prepare for a crucial matchup this Friday night, all eyes are set on the potential return of their star guard, Ja Morant. While his presence on the court could rejuvenate a struggling team, it’s essential to note the team’s precarious history with injuries. Despite a coaching change from Tyler Jenkins to Tuomas Iisalo, the Grizzlies’ injury report remains extensive, resembling the table of contents of a hefty textbook.
Morant is currently listed as questionable due to a right calf strain sustained during a game in Cleveland on November 15. In his absence, the team has surprisingly managed a 7-3 record, but now they face the daunting task of continuing their momentum without the player who has been pivotal in turning around their sluggish 4-11 start. Adding to the challenge, center Zach Edey is sidelined until at least early January as the team takes a cautious approach after he was diagnosed with a stress reaction in his left ankle. This absence will undoubtedly complicate Morant’s return, as the Grizzlies will be without a valuable 7-foot-4 presence on the floor.
A Familiar Pattern for Morant
For Morant, this return is yet another opportunity to reset his season. The narrative of his comebacks has become all too familiar. His most notable return came following a 25-game suspension during the 2023-24 season, after which he made a dramatic impact with a game-winning floater against the Pelicans. That performance, which included 34 points and eight assists, seemed to signal a fresh start for the talented guard. However, since that memorable evening on December 19, 2023, Morant has faced challenges in regaining his former dominance.
This season, Morant’s shooting woes have been glaring. He’s currently hitting just 16.7 percent from beyond the arc, converting only 10 of 60 attempts. His struggles extend beyond shooting, as he has also been plagued by turnovers, averaging a concerning 3.8 per game—a figure that would mark a career low if it continues. In his last complete game against the Knicks on November 11, he recorded a season-high eight turnovers, further illustrating the inconsistency in his play.
Challenges Ahead
Morant’s scoring ability at the rim has also diminished, with critics noting a tendency towards passivity that resembles a player who is reluctant to fully engage. This shift in approach stems from his desire for self-preservation, a stark contrast to his once reckless style of play that endeared him to fans and made him a highlight-reel machine. He has cited concerns over not getting calls and battling injuries as reasons for his change in mentality.
Despite these challenges, Morant’s popularity in Memphis remains intact. In a heartwarming gesture, he is giving away 250 tickets for Friday’s game against the Jazz, celebrating the significance of the date—12/12, a nod to his jersey number. This act of goodwill underscores his connection with the community, even as he grapples with the pressures of performance and expectations.
With Morant’s return looming, the Grizzlies have a chance to reignite their season. Yet, the question remains: can he overcome his shooting struggles and lead his team back to contention? The basketball world will be watching closely as the Grizzlies take the court.
