The Memphis Grizzlies, the second-seeded team in the playoffs, are concerned about their superstar guard Ja Morant's availability after he sustained an injury during their game against the Los Angeles Lakers.
In the fourth quarter, with only five minutes left on the clock, Morant went up to challenge Anthony Davis and landed awkwardly on his right hand, causing him to leave the game. Despite their strong performance, the Grizzlies lost the game 128-112.
Ja Morant goes up against Anthony Davis, comes down and hurts his right hand on this play.
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) April 16, 2023
He is heading to the locker room 🙏pic.twitter.com/pmiHH19Vo7
Read More: Ja Morant Should Have Been Suspended for the Season
Ja Morant X-rays Came Back Negative
Following the game, Grizzlies coach Taylor Jenkins stated that Morant was experiencing pain, but X-rays returned negative. Morant will be evaluated over the next two days, and the team hopes for a positive outcome. It's worth noting that Morant was already dealing with an injury to his hand before this latest incident.
Austin Reaves, in his playoff debut, was the hero of the game, scoring 14 points in the fourth quarter alone. Reaves finished the game with 23 points, three rebounds, and four assists.
Rui Hachimura also contributed significantly, scoring 29 points, shooting 11 for 14 from the field, and making five 3-pointers.
D'Angelo Russell had a slow start but managed to finish the game with 19 points.
The Lakers' superstar duo of LeBron James and Anthony Davis combined for 43 points.
The Lakers' supporting cast stepped up and provided high-level production, taking the pressure off James, who also impacted the defensive end.
Jaren Jackson Jr. led the Grizzlies with 31 points, five rebounds, four assists, two blocks, and one steal, while Morant contributed 22 points, five rebounds, and six assists before leaving the game due to injury.
The Lakers now lead the series 1-0 and will remain in Memphis for Game 2 on Thursday, with a cloud of uncertainty surrounding Morant's status.
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