The Memphis Grizzlies have been dealt a devastating blow, as their superstar point guard Ja Morant has officially been ruled out for his 18th game of the 2024-25 NBA season. This absence carries monumental implications beyond just the Grizzlies’ on-court performance. By missing this critical threshold of games played, Morant is now ineligible for any regular season NBA awards, including the coveted MVP trophy that many predicted he would contend for.
The Injury Bug Strikes Again
Morant, who has electrified fans with his explosive playmaking ability, has unfortunately been plagued by injuries throughout his young career. The latest setback, a nagging foot sprain originally suffered in a January 9th matchup against the Houston Rockets, was reaggravated in the Grizzlies’ recent game versus the San Antonio Spurs.
Last game against the Spurs he got tangled up, had a little collision there with a Spurs player that really worsened it.
– Grizzlies head coach Taylor Jenkins
Despite attempts to play through the pain, Morant was ultimately held out of Friday’s contest after testing the injured foot in pregame warmups. His absence was felt immediately, as the Grizzlies struggled to generate their usual offensive firepower without their floor general.
The Ripple Effect on Awards Races
While the primary concern is Morant’s long-term health, the 18-game mark carries significant weight in terms of end-of-season accolades. To be eligible for awards such as Most Valuable Player, Defensive Player of the Year, or making an All-NBA team, players must appear in a minimum of 65 regular season games.
Morant, who many saw as a dark horse MVP candidate thanks to his electric play and the Grizzlies’ success, will now be watching those races from the sidelines. His disqualification could pave the way for other superstars to claim the hardware, fundamentally altering the NBA’s award landscape.
Weathering the Storm in Memphis
For the Grizzlies, who currently sit at 26-15 and 4th in the Western Conference, the challenge will be maintaining their momentum without their best player. In the 17 games Morant has missed so far, the team has gone a respectable 10-7, but his absence is clearly felt on both ends of the floor.
Memphis will now lean more heavily on young standouts like Desmond Bane and Jaren Jackson Jr. to shoulder the offensive load, while reserve guard Tyus Jones is expected to take on an expanded role as the starting point guard. As an integral part of the Grizzlies’ attack, Morant’s playmaking and shot creation will be sorely missed.
The Road to Recovery
While the news is undoubtedly disappointing for Morant, his teammates, and Grizzlies fans everywhere, the focus must remain on his long-term well-being. Foot injuries can be notoriously tricky for explosive players like Morant, whose game is predicated on speed, agility, and leaping ability.
- Average 21.4 ppg, 7.5 apg before injury
- Grizzlies 26-15, 4th in West
- 10-7 record without Morant this season
The Grizzlies’ medical staff will certainly exercise caution with their franchise cornerstone, ensuring that he is fully healed before returning to the court. In the meantime, Morant will continue to be a vocal leader from the bench, mentoring his young teammates and providing energy to keep the team afloat during this challenging stretch.
As the NBA world collectively holds its breath, all eyes will be on Morant’s recovery timeline. Though individual accolades may be out of reach this season, his ultimate goal remains leading the Grizzlies to the promised land and securing the first championship in franchise history. For now, the basketball community can only wish him a full and speedy recovery, eagerly awaiting the day he can once again dazzle fans with his unparalleled skill and athleticism.
