Steven Adams Injury: Memphis Big Likely to Miss Time in Playoffs

The month of March has gone from bad to worse for the Grizzlies, who will now be without big man Steven Adams for the remainder of the regular season.

Adams recently received a stem cell injection in his right knee that is meant to promote healing for the PCL sprain he suffered in late January.

Stem cells typically require weeks or months to work, thus it is likely that Adams will miss time in the playoffs, according to the Pro Basketball Docs.

A best case scenario could see Adams return in a spot role, like Robert Williams III did last season for the Celtics, but it is possible the 29-year-old does not return at any point in the postseason.

By video, the center from New Zealand suffered at least a Grade 2 PCL sprain when he jammed his right knee into the ground while diving for a loose ball in the closing seconds of a loss, according to the Pro Basketball Docs.

Adams has missed the Grizzlies’ last 18 games and will not be reevaluated until mid-April, effectively ruling him out for the season.

Memphis also recently lost bouncy forward Brandon Clarke to a torn Achilles tendon and Ja Morant remains away from the team for another four games after his recent off-the-court issues.

Since losing Adams in late January, the Grizzlies (38-26) have gone 7-11 and averaged about 7 less rebounds per game.

Memphis will have to find a way to replace Adams’ dependable production over the last few seasons. 

This year, he averaged 8.6 points, 11.5 rebounds and 1.1 blocks while shooting 59.7% from the field.

Memphis Grizzlies NBA Finals Odds

The Grizzlies have the eighth-best odds to win the NBA Finals at +1800, according to FanDuel Sportsbook.

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