The Memphis Grizzlies secured a commanding 140-112 victory over the San Antonio Spurs on Friday night, despite the absence of their star player, Ja Morant. The game, held at the FedExForum, saw Morant sidelined due to soreness in his right foot. This marked his 18th missed game of the season, significantly impacting his eligibility for regular-season NBA awards.
Morant, a 25-year-old two-time All-Star and sixth-year veteran, tested his foot during pregame warmups. However, the Grizzlies staff, concerned about his ongoing foot soreness, decided it was best for him to sit out. Coach Taylor Jenkins noted that Morant was "trending towards out," following an incident in a previous clash with the Spurs.
"Last game against the Spurs he got tangled up, had a little collision there with a Spurs player that really worsened it," – Taylor Jenkins
Morant has been dealing with a foot sprain since January 9, when the Grizzlies suffered a loss to the Houston Rockets. Despite his absence, the team has maintained a strong record of 11-7 without him in the lineup. In this season alone, Morant has averaged 21.4 points, 7.5 assists, and 1.3 steals per game, showcasing his critical role in the Grizzlies' success.
In a previous encounter with the Spurs, Morant led Memphis with an impressive 21 points and 12 assists, underscoring his value on the court. However, with at least 65 games missed this season, he is now ineligible for any regular-season NBA accolades.
The decision to rest Morant reflects the Grizzlies' cautious approach to preserving their player's health and long-term performance. As they advance through the season, the team remains hopeful for Morant's recovery and eventual return to the court.
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