If the Memphis Grizzlies are to overcome the Golden State Warriors in the second round of the 2022 NBA Playoffs, they will have to do it without their best player in Ja Morant. According to multiple reports, Morant is dealing with a bone bruise and is doubtful to return for the remainder of the postseason.
Memphis believes that Morant got hurt in Game 3 of the Warriors series when Jordan Poole grabbed his knee while going for a steal. The All-Star guard later underwent an MRI test that revealed a bone bruise, although the Grizzlies didn’t announce the info right away.
Morant missed the past two games of the series including the Grizzlies’ 134-95 blowout win on Wednesday night. But despite the fact that Memphis found ways to stay competitive, it is hard to imagine them overcoming Golden State let alone making a championship run without Morant on the floor.
The former second overall pick averaged 27.4 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 6.7 assists per game as the Grizzlies finished the regular season as the No. 2 seed in Western Conference. These performances got Moranthis first All-Star nod while he also took home the NBA’s Most Improved Player award.
Morant has been slow to get going in the playoffs, having several off games in the first-round series against the Timberwolves. However, he has been on fire in three games against Golden State, averaging 38.3 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 8.3 assists.
