The second-seed Memphis Grizzlies playoff opener didn’t go according to plan. The 7th-seed Los Angeles Lakers managed to take Game 1 thanks to a dominant fourth quarter. While they lost Game 1, the Grizzlies are likely far more concerned with the health of superstar Ja Morant.
Morant went down midway through the fourth quarter of their loss to the Lakers and didn’t return. Although he may have been powerless to stop the Lakers’ onslaught, the championship hopes of the Grizzlies rely heavily on his health going forward.
Morant was already dealing with a hand issue when he fell and hit it. He went back to the team locker room and was quickly ruled out for the game. Now, his status for Game 2 is very much in question.
Ja Morant’s injury status for Game 2: Lakers at Grizzlies
According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, there is “significant doubt” about whether Morant will play Game 2 against the Lakers on Wednesday. By the sound of it, that would mean there’s less than a 25% chance that he will suit up.
After all, the fact that his status was updated to “doubtful” immediately following Game 1 doesn’t appear to be a good sign for the Grizzlies.
When will Ja Morant play?
Luckily for the Grizzlies, there is a gap between Game 1 and Game 2. That extra day could help him, even if he doesn’t play on Wednesday. With Game 3 on Saturday, Morant would have six days to recover. Of course, resting Morant for Game 2 could backfire and the Grizzlies could go down 0-2 if he doesn’t play.
Memphis Grizzlies’ full injury report
In addition to Morant potentially missing Game 2, Jake LaRavia, Steven Adams, and Brandon Clarke are on the injury report. Adams and Clarke have been ruled out for the remainder of the season due to a knee injury and an Achilles tear while LaRavia is out due to his calf.
Memphis Grizzlies’ full first-round series schedule
Wed, Apr 19 vs. Los Angeles, 7:30 PM, TNT
Sat, Apr 22 @ Los Angeles, 10:00 PM, ESPN
Mon, Apr 24 @ Los Angeles, 10:00 PM, TNT
Wed, Apr 26 Los Angeles, TBD
Fri, Apr 28 @ Los Angeles, TBD
Sun, Apr 30 Los Angeles, TBD
Overall, the odds don’t appear good that Morant will play Game 2. Fortunately, there is some extra time between games, giving him a little bit more time to recover.
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Author: Cal Durrett
April 18, 2023 | 5:00 am
