Morant's post-game comments suggested he avoided another serious injury setback.
Ja Morant exited the Memphis Grizzlies’ first preseason game against the Dallas Mavericks on Monday due to an apparent ankle injury.
Morant initially hurt his ankle early in the second quarter when Mavericks’ player Naji Marshall’s attempted bounce pass struck his foot, causing him to turn it. He hobbled off the floor and retreated to the locker room.
Morant returned to play a few minutes later but subsequently checked himself out of the game after experiencing discomfort in his ankle.
In his 18 minutes of play, Morant contributed 13 points, four rebounds, and one block as the Grizzlies secured a 121-116 victory.
“I’m good, It’s preseason, man,” Morant told reporters in Dallas.
Given Morant’s comments, it appears the Grizzlies’ superstar has avoided another significant setback. This comes as a relief, considering Morant was sidelined for much of the previous season due to a suspension and shoulder surgery.
Memphis Grizzlies head coach Taylor Jenkins offered an optimistic update following Ja Morant’s ankle injury. ESPN’s Tim MacMahon reported that the star guard tweaked his ankle and was removed from the second half as a precaution. Jenkins stated that Morant will undergo evaluation in the coming days.
“Taylor Jenkins said Ja Morant left the Grizzlies’ win due to a ‘minor little tweak’ in his ankle. He will be evaluated, but early indications are it is not a significant concern,” MacMahon tweeted.
Morant’s participation in the remaining preseason games may be determined close to game time, as the Grizzlies would prioritize his health for the regular season.
The team is already contending with multiple injuries. Jaren Jackson Jr. is nursing a hamstring strain, Vince Williams Jr. is expected to miss at least a month with a tibia injury, and GG Jackson is sidelined for three months due to a broken foot.
The Grizzlies are scheduled to play their next preseason game at home against the Charlotte Hornets on Thursday at 7 p.m. CT. Their regular season opener is set for Oct. 23 against the Utah Jazz in Salt City.
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