The Memphis Grizzlies face a daunting challenge in their first-round playoff matchup with the Oklahoma City Thunder as star point guard Ja Morant has been ruled out for Game 4 due to a hip injury, sources confirmed to ESPN on Friday. Morant, who had already played through a significant ankle sprain to help the Grizzlies clinch a playoff berth just last week, suffered the injury after a frightening fall during Thursday’s Game 3, which ended with the Thunder taking a commanding 3-0 series lead.
The injury came during a dunk attempt in the second quarter of Game 3 when Morant crashed hard onto the floor after making contact with Thunder defenders. He was visibly in pain and had to leave the court briefly, only to return and play through the injury. However, the Grizzlies’ momentum was shattered as they squandered a sizable lead, ultimately falling 114-108.
Morant, who had been a key factor in the Grizzlies’ success all season, was on track for another standout playoff performance before the injury. The point guard had 15 points and 5 assists in Game 3, though his energy and playmaking were limited after his fall. Morant would exit the game before halftime occurred and would not return.
The hip injury comes as another blow for Memphis, who were already fighting an uphill battle in the series. Morant had been the driving force behind the Grizzlies’ postseason berth prior to Thursday’s matchup. His absence for Game 4 further complicates Memphis’ efforts to stay alive in the series and will likely force the Grizzlies to rely heavily on the contributions of Desmond Bane, Jaren Jackson Jr., and the rest of their supporting cast.
The Grizzlies, now down 0-3 in the series, face a must-win situation on Saturday if they hope to keep their playoff dreams alive. Without Morant, Memphis will need to find a way to overcome the Thunder’s high-scoring attack, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and the absence of their star guard raises serious questions about their ability to mount a comeback.
The decision to rest Morant for Game 4 was made with caution, as the Grizzlies front office and medical staff want to ensure that the star guard does not further exacerbate his injury. Morant has been known for his resilience, but the team’s primary focus now is on his long-term health and recovery.
Looking Ahead
As the series shifts back to Memphis, the Grizzlies will face an uphill battle without their leader. Game 4 is scheduled for Saturday, and Memphis will need a heroic effort from its remaining players to stave off elimination. Interim head coach Tuomas Iisalo will have to adjust his strategy, with Morant’s absence likely forcing the Grizzlies to lean more heavily on their defense and outside shooting.
The loss of Morant for Game 4 is a devastating blow, but the Grizzlies are no strangers to adversity. If they can regroup and rally without their star point guard, Memphis may still have a slim chance to avoid a first-round exit. The team, and its fanbase, will now turn their eyes to the next challenge, hoping for a miracle comeback in Game 4.
For now, the focus is on Morant’s recovery, and the Grizzlies’ ability to stay in the fight despite the odds stacked against them.
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