Ja Morant’s return to the court was short-lived - and now, the Grizzlies are once again holding their breath.
The explosive Memphis guard is back on the injury report, this time with a left elbow UCL sprain suffered during the Jan. 21 game against the Hawks. According to head coach Tuomas Iisalo, Morant is still undergoing evaluation, and there’s no clear timetable yet for his return.
The injury occurred on one of the plays that’s become signature Ja Morant - a high-flying chase-down block attempt. Iisalo confirmed that it was during one of those efforts that Morant made contact and injured his elbow.
After the game, Morant downplayed the moment with his usual flair, joking, “I was too high, I hit it on the top of the shot clock.” He added that he felt a sting - like hitting the funny bone - but insisted he was okay at the time.
But that stinger turned out to be more serious than expected. The Grizzlies officially ruled Morant out ahead of their matchup with the Pelicans, and the concern now is how long this latest setback might sideline their star.
Unfortunately, it’s a familiar story for Morant and Memphis. Injuries have been a recurring theme in his young career, and this season has been no different.
After returning from a calf contusion, Morant managed just two games before this elbow issue cropped up. It’s been a frustrating cycle for both player and team - every step forward seems to come with another detour.
To make matters more complicated, this injury comes on the heels of swirling trade rumors. Earlier this month, reports surfaced that the Grizzlies were at least willing to listen to offers for Morant.
That speculation quieted when he returned to action during the team’s trip to London, where he played a key role in a win over the Magic. But now, with Morant sidelined again, questions about his long-term future in Memphis are bound to resurface.
Before the injury, Morant looked like himself again - dynamic, aggressive, and in control. He dropped 23 points and dished out 12 assists against the Hawks, showing flashes of the All-NBA talent that makes him one of the league’s most electric players when healthy.
But health remains the big “if.” The Grizzlies know they’re a different team with Morant on the floor - his ability to change the pace, break down defenses, and ignite the crowd is second to none. Now, they’ll have to wait and see just how long they’ll be without their franchise cornerstone.
For now, the Grizzlies are in holding mode, hoping this latest injury doesn’t turn into another extended absence.