2 min read • December 21, 2021
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Grizzlies star guard Ja Morant is expected to return tonight against the Thunder after a 12-game absence from a left knee sprain, according to head coach Taylor Jenkins.
Morant was listed by the team earlier today as questionable, but Jenkins hinted during media availability that Morant will make his return. The 3rd-year former No. 2 overall pick was also in health and safety protocols after testing positive for COVID-19 from Dec. 8 to Dec. 19.
Because of the combination of his knee sprain, the virus, and his time away from the floor, we expect Morant to play in limited minutes as he gets back into game shape. Memphis, 19-12, has shown to be well-equipped to handle life without Morant, as the No. 4 seed in the West went 10-2 and saw impressive contributions from Jaren Jackson Jr., Desmond Bane, De'Anthony Melton, and Tyus Jones, among others.
Morant suffered the non-contact sprain on Nov. 26, when he took an awkward step while dribbling on the right elbow. He caused more concern as he was unable to put any weight on his leg and had to be carried off the floor and into the locker room. Before the injury, the 2020 Rookie of the Year was having a breakout season, averaging a career-high 24.1 points with 5.6 rebounds and 6.8 assists on 47.6% from the floor and 35.6% from 3.
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