The Memphis Grizzlies’ promising start to the 2024-25 NBA season has hit a speed bump, with the team announcing that key starters Desmond Bane and Marcus Smart will both miss multiple weeks due to injuries sustained in Wednesday night’s loss to the Brooklyn Nets.
According to the Grizzlies, Bane is dealing with a right oblique strain, while Smart is sidelined by a sprained right ankle. The team describes both players as “week-to-week,” indicating extended absences that could stretch well into November.
The loss of Bane, in particular, is a tough blow for a Grizzlies squad that has relied heavily on his scoring prowess early in the season. The third-year shooting guard is second on the team in scoring at 18.8 points per game, providing a potent offensive complement to superstar point guard Ja Morant.
Smart’s Injury Woes Continue
For Smart, the ankle sprain is an unfortunately familiar setback. The veteran point guard, acquired by Memphis in an offseason trade with the Boston Celtics, appeared in just 20 games last season while battling a sprained left foot and a finger injury.
Smart’s tenacious defense and leadership were expected to be key assets for the Grizzlies this season, but his ability to stay on the court has once again come into question. The team will undoubtedly be cautious with his recovery, aiming to have him at full strength for the stretch run and playoffs.
Next Man Up Mentality
With Bane and Smart out of the lineup, the Grizzlies will need other players to step up and fill the void. Guards Tyus Jones and De’Anthony Melton, both of whom have played well in reserve roles this season, are likely to see increased minutes in the coming weeks.
It’s always tough to lose key guys, but we’ve got a deep team and a ‘next man up’ mentality. We’ll rally around each other and continue to play our brand of basketball.
Grizzlies head coach Taylor Jenkins
The Grizzlies’ depth will certainly be tested in the weeks ahead, with a challenging stretch of games that includes matchups against the Philadelphia 76ers, Phoenix Suns, and defending champion Denver Nuggets.
Opportunity for Growth
In the meantime, the Grizzlies will lean on their depth, their system, and their unwavering belief in themselves. As they’ve shown time and again in recent years, this is a team that knows how to navigate adversity and come out stronger on the other side.
In the meantime, the Grizzlies will lean on their depth, their system, and their unwavering belief in themselves. As they’ve shown time and again in recent years, this is a team that knows how to navigate adversity and come out stronger on the other side.
While the timetable for Bane and Smart’s return remains uncertain, the Grizzlies are committed to taking a long-term approach with both players. With aspirations of making a deep playoff run, the team understands the importance of having its stars healthy and ready to go when the games matter most.
In the meantime, the Grizzlies will lean on their depth, their system, and their unwavering belief in themselves. As they’ve shown time and again in recent years, this is a team that knows how to navigate adversity and come out stronger on the other side.
While the timetable for Bane and Smart’s return remains uncertain, the Grizzlies are committed to taking a long-term approach with both players. With aspirations of making a deep playoff run, the team understands the importance of having its stars healthy and ready to go when the games matter most.
In the meantime, the Grizzlies will lean on their depth, their system, and their unwavering belief in themselves. As they’ve shown time and again in recent years, this is a team that knows how to navigate adversity and come out stronger on the other side.
While the injuries to Bane and Smart are undoubtedly setbacks, they also present an opportunity for growth and development within the Grizzlies’ roster. Young players like Ziaire Williams and Kennedy Chandler could see expanded roles, allowing them to gain valuable experience and showcase their skills.
Moreover, the adversity of playing without two starters could help to galvanize the team and strengthen its identity. If the Grizzlies can weather this storm and continue to rack up wins, it would send a strong message about their resilience and championship potential.
The Road Ahead
As Bane and Smart begin their recovery processes, the Grizzlies will focus on maintaining their position near the top of the Western Conference standings. The team currently sits at 3-3, having won two of three games since the duo went down with injuries.
While the timetable for Bane and Smart’s return remains uncertain, the Grizzlies are committed to taking a long-term approach with both players. With aspirations of making a deep playoff run, the team understands the importance of having its stars healthy and ready to go when the games matter most.
In the meantime, the Grizzlies will lean on their depth, their system, and their unwavering belief in themselves. As they’ve shown time and again in recent years, this is a team that knows how to navigate adversity and come out stronger on the other side.
While the injuries to Bane and Smart are undoubtedly setbacks, they also present an opportunity for growth and development within the Grizzlies’ roster. Young players like Ziaire Williams and Kennedy Chandler could see expanded roles, allowing them to gain valuable experience and showcase their skills.
Moreover, the adversity of playing without two starters could help to galvanize the team and strengthen its identity. If the Grizzlies can weather this storm and continue to rack up wins, it would send a strong message about their resilience and championship potential.
The Road Ahead
As Bane and Smart begin their recovery processes, the Grizzlies will focus on maintaining their position near the top of the Western Conference standings. The team currently sits at 3-3, having won two of three games since the duo went down with injuries.
While the timetable for Bane and Smart’s return remains uncertain, the Grizzlies are committed to taking a long-term approach with both players. With aspirations of making a deep playoff run, the team understands the importance of having its stars healthy and ready to go when the games matter most.
In the meantime, the Grizzlies will lean on their depth, their system, and their unwavering belief in themselves. As they’ve shown time and again in recent years, this is a team that knows how to navigate adversity and come out stronger on the other side.
