Ja Morant was downgraded on night two of a back-to-back set for the Memphis Grizzlies.
According to the official NBA injury report, Morant has experienced ankle soreness after Tuesday’s action on the road against the New York Knicks. He was listed as questionable heading into the matchup.
During Tuesday’s action between the Grizzlies and the Knicks, Morant checked in for 33 minutes of action. He shot 4-14 from the field, scoring 16 points. He logged a double-double by racking up 10 assists.
The Grizzlies couldn’t help but land in another losing streak. Tuesday in New York was the second-straight loss, after they fell short against the Oklahoma City Thunder on November 9. Memphis’s November 7 win over the Dallas Mavericks helped them snap a four-game losing streak.
Ja Morant’s Playing Status for Wednesday vs. Celtics
The Grizzlies have decided rule out Morant for Wednesday’s action in Boston. Considering there hasn’t been a change in his diagnosis, it doesn’t seem to be a long-term concern. However, Morant will have to be monitored moving forward.
This season, Morant has been the talk of the NBA—not for positive reasons. As Memphis has struggled through its first 11 games, Morant has been visibly frustrated with his team’s start. His recent postgame comments didn’t do the Grizzlies any favors, as Morant has been seemingly upset with the coaching staff.
Whether it’s a personal concern—or a team-wide issue affecting Morant—the star guard’s numbers are down this year. In 11 games, Morant has struggled with his shooting, making just 35 percent of his field goals. He is averaging 18.9 points, which is his lowest mark since his rookie season in 2019-2020.
Morant has improved in the assists department, averaging 8.1 so far, but he is turning the ball over at a career-high rate (4.0 per game).
The two-time All-Star is one of six players on Memphis’ injury report on Wednesday. Along with Morant, the Grizzlies have listed Brandon Clarke, Ty Jerome, Scotty Pippen Jr., Javon Small, and Zach Edey. On a slightly positive note, the Grizzlies have upgraded Edey, who is recovering from left ankle surgery. He had a low chance of playing in Boston on Wednesday, but it’s clear his season debut could be approaching soon.
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