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[Saba Sports News] The Memphis Grizzlies announced Monday that star point guard Ja Morant will be sidelined for an extended period due to a “Grade 1 AC joint sprain” in his right shoulder.
The injury, sustained during the December 27 game against the New Orleans Pelicans, leaves Morant’s status as week-to-week.
The team’s official statement read:
“Ja Morant has been diagnosed with a Grade 1 AC joint sprain in his right shoulder, which occurred during the Grizzlies’ game against the New Orleans Pelicans on December 27. He is considered week-to-week, and further updates will be provided as appropriate.”
Morant initially stayed in the locker room after the injury but returned to the bench without re-entering the game. Before exiting, he delivered a strong performance with 25 points on 8-of-11 shooting, along with seven assists, two rebounds, and a steal in 25 minutes, helping Memphis secure a 132-124 road win.
The Grizzlies’ following game against the Oklahoma City Thunder saw Morant sidelined, along with rookie Zach Edey, who was in concussion protocol.
With Morant expected to miss multiple games, the team will likely lean on players like Desmond Bane, Luke Kennard, and Scotty Pippen Jr. to step up. The backcourt is already short-handed, as Marcus Smart remains out with a right index injury and is set to be re-evaluated in two weeks.
Morant, the 2019 second overall draft pick, has been a key contributor this season, averaging 21.2 points, 7.9 assists, and 4.4 rebounds while shooting 45.4% from the field and 32.3% from beyond the arc. The injury occurred after Morant collided with a hard screen set by Pelicans big man Daniel Theis during the game at Smoothie King Center.
As Memphis navigates this challenging stretch, Morant’s absence will test the team’s depth and resilience in the backcourt.