The status of Memphis Grizzlies superstar Ja Morant was up in the air for Thursday’s showpiece game against the Golden State Warriors. The point guard was previously questionable for this game, but is updated to be available ahead of the game.
According to the Grizzlies injury report, he is suffering from lower back pain. Morant has suffered from the condition since December 8 after injuring his hip on November 7. He played in Sunday’s 116-110 loss to the LA Lakers.
•
If Morant is out, Scotty Pippen Jr. would replace him in the starting lineup. His absence, however, would be a big blow for the Grizzlies. Morant has been in great form as of late, averaging 23.0 points, 5.0 rebounds and 7.3 assists in December and recording several 30-point games.
Ja Morant Stats vs. Golden State Warriors
Ja Morant played in 11 games against the Golden State Warriors, averaging 22.4 ppg, 4.1 rpg and 7.4 apg, while shooting 43/25/75. He has only won five times, posting a losing record against conference rivals the Grizzlies.
If Morant becomes available, it will be his first game against the Warriors in almost two years. He last faced them on January 25, 2023, totaling 29 points, four rebounds and 12 assists on 50.0% shooting in a 122-120 loss.
The Grizzlies come into this game on a 10-2 run but are coming off a 116-110 loss to the Lakers. They hope to bounce back against the struggling Warriors, who have lost eight of their last 10 games.
However, this is heavily dependent on Ja Morant’s uniform and would require a monumental effort from others in his absence as the Warriors enter this competition relatively healthy.
Where to watch the Golden State Warriors vs Memphis Grizzlies game?
The Golden State Warriors and Memphis Grizzlies will headline Thursday’s NBA League Pass slate. Meanwhile, NBC Sports Bay Area and FanDuel Sports Network – Southeast will provide coverage of the game in local areas starting at 8 p.m. ET. The Grizzlies enter this contest as -2.5 point favorites with a money line of -135.
Edited by Arhaan Raje
