Memphis Grizzlies summer is not ideal as they team was struck by injuries to their key rotation guys, led by star Ja Morant who suffered a left ankle sprain last week. The other three guys yet to suit up for them during this preparation period are big men Jaren Jackson Jr., Zach Edey and Brandon Clark.
JJJ had a surgery last July to repair his right toe. Team confirmed on September 26 that he will be out for four to six weeks. As for Edey, he had an ankle surgery three weeks ago and won’t be able to play for up to two months.
Clarke’s case dates back to the last season when he was unable to finish it due to a high-grade PCL sprain he suffered late March. He underwent surgery this summer and the latest on him says he might not miss the opening night.
Clarke was third in team in most games played last season. He averaged 8.3 points and 5.1 rebounds.
With them unable to play, the team are currently 0-3 this pre-season, falling by double digit lead in the first two. Starting five members who are able to play are Kentavious Cadwell-Pope, Santi Aldama, and Jaylen Wells.
Memphis Grizzlies are receiving positive news
Morant himself took the time to assure that he is already doing well after the bad news last week.
“They just be tweakin’. Panicking. Nothing to be crazy about. If I’m smiling and I ain’t telling you to worry, you ain’t got to worry,” Morant said as quoted by Damichael Cole of The Memphis Commercial Appeal.
Head coach Tuomas Iisalo doubles down on it saying Morant, together with Jackson Jr., are recovering well.
“Both guys are progressing really well and are able to do significantly more than one week ago,” Iisalo said.
Clarke and Edey will remain unavailable.
Grizzlies’ last pre-season game will be against the Charlotte Hornets. They will make their season debut on October 22 at home against the New Orleans Pelicans.
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