The Memphis Grizzlies won just 27 games last season and snapped a streak of three consecutive playoff appearances. No franchise missed more games due to injury, and Ja Morant played just nine times. The two-time All-Star had a season-ending shoulder injury shortly after returning from a 25-game suspension. Memphis plans to bounce back, but will they?
Better health is a must. Jaren Jackson Jr. played a team-high 66 games last season with Desmond Bane appearing in 42. No franchise could survive that many missed contests from their top players, and Memphis was no exception. GG Jackson is already hurt, but the rest of the Grizzlies are ready to prove 2024 was a fluke.
There are no guarantees, especially with Morant. The 25-year-old already has a lengthy injury history and his fearless play style will likely lead to more. The Grizzlies need Morant, but how many games can they realistically expect him to play?
Ja Morant missing time could derail the Grizzlies season
Morant played 67 games as a rookie in a shortened 73-contest year. He has never appeared in more and has topped 60 games just three times in five years. Memphis cannot expect him to play more than 65, which means 17 contests without their best player.
The Grizzlies are thin at point guard. Derrick Rose enters the season as the backup, but he hasn’t played more than 50 games in a season since 2019. Marcus Smart figures to see plenty of time as the primary ball-handler, but he has appeared in just 200 games over the last four years combined. There could be a moment when Memphis is without a point guard entirely.
Availability is the most important skill, and there are serious questions about how much Ja will play. He will be a full-go in training camp, but another injury could pop up at any moment and alter the entire season.
The Western Conference is loaded. Memphis had back-to-back 50-win seasons, but there is no guarantee they will return to that level. Every game will count as things are crowded with the Thunder, Mavericks, Nuggets, Timberwolves, and Suns all believing they can contend for a championship. Seven other teams are planning on qualifying for the postseason, which leaves 12 for ten spots. Some teams will be disappointed, and it could be Memphis if Morant misses significant time.
Ja Morant will wow Memphis Grizzlies fans this season. Whether it is a monster dunk or a circus shot, the two-time All-Star is must see whenever he is in the lineup. The franchise hopes for better health and fortune this season. Getting Ja to tone down a bit may be beneficial. Expect him to be sensational and give Memphis a chance to return to contention.
Hopefully, the Grizzlies avoid the heartbreak and return to the playoffs in 2025. Only time will tell.