Memphis Grizzlies point guard Ja Morant is in the spotlight again, but this time for an injury that he sustained during Game 1 against the Los Angeles Lakers. Morant left the game early, clutching his right hand in pain after colliding with Lakers’ forward Anthony Davis. Fortunately, according to The Athletic’s Shams Charania, X-rays and tests have confirmed that Morant did not fracture any bones in his hand, indicating a positive outlook for the young point guard.
Good News Bad News for Ja Morant with Injury to his Hand
Despite the good news, Morant’s participation in Game 2 remains uncertain. Charania reports that Morant’s injury primarily revolves around pain tolerance. Which means that his status will be determined by how well he can manage the pain. Morant himself admitted that he may not be able to participate in the next game, stating that his status for Game 2 is “in jeopardy.” In a post-game interview with ESPN’s Tim MacMahon, Morant revealed that he was unable to perform basic tasks such as “undo a balled-up pair of socks” due to the excruciating pain in his hand.
In Game 1, Morant played for 30 minutes and contributed 18 points, six rebounds, and two assists. However, his departure from the game with just under six minutes left. Unquestionably proved costly for Memphis, as the Lakers outscored the Grizzlies by 12 points for the rest of the game.
This injury comes after Morant missed 21 games during the season due to various reasons. With the Grizzlies winning 11 out of 21 games without him. If he is unable to play in Game 2, backup point guard Tyus Jones, who scored nine points in 25 minutes during Game 1. Would most likely replace him in the starting lineup.
As the Grizzlies look to even the series with the Lakers. All eyes will be on Ja Morant and his recovery. Fans and analysts alike will eagerly await updates on his condition leading up to Game 2.
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