After trading for Marcus Smart in the offseason to bolster their defense, the Memphis Grizzlies were expected to be an elite two-way squad. However, they had to be without the services of Ja Morant for the first 25 games, and what a blow that was! The team had a horrendous 6-19 start but the return of Morant sparked hopes as the team went on a four-game winning streak. However, a few days ago, he underwent shoulder surgery and is going to miss the rest of the season.
After his shoulder surgery, the guard gave an emotional note to fans. On his Instagram, he wrote,
“What you went thru has a purpose. So does your life. Focus on your life’s purpose and you will get thru this trying time.”
This gut-wrenching message has pinched a lot of fans but the silver lining is that the athletic guard will be active for the 2024-25 season. Meanwhile, after Marcus Smart’s long-term injury, the weakened Grizzlies are rumored to be hunting 29-year-old Quentin Grimes. Grimes has been in a slump all season long. He has scored just 6.8 points per game on 38.7%. This is a dip from last season when he lodged 11.3 points per game on 46.8%.
Morant has been at the center of the Grizzlies’ offense since his draft, averaging more than 25 points and 8 rebounds in his previous two seasons. The squad can also add a prolific talent through the 2024 Draft as they have a first-round pick which can be the top-half of the lottery. Only time will tell which route they take.
