The Memphis Grizzlies took on a tall Western Conference task with their matchup against LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers on Wednesday. Memphis showed its might and held a 20-point lead with less than five minutes remaining in the game. However, Ja Morant, who exited the game earlier with an injury, received a concerning update near the contest's end.
Morant suffered a right hamstring injury and was ruled doubtful to return against the Lakers, per Senior NBA Insider Chris Haynes. Hopefully, Morant will undergo a speedy recovery.
The sixth-year guard finished Wednesday's game with 2o points, five assists, and five assists. Through seven games of the 2024-25 season, Morant averages 20.7 points, 9.7 assists, 5.1 rebounds, and 0.6 steals.
Memphis needs Ja Morant injury-free if they want to improve upon their subpar 2023-24 showing. Thankfully, the Grizzlies received multiple standout contributions against the Lakers. Jaren Jackson Jr. pitched in 20 points, 6 rebounds, and three blocks. Meanwhile, rookie forward Jaylen Wells also scored 20 points and grabbed three rebounds.
Santi Aldama earned an 11-point, 11-rebound double-double, while Scotty Pippen Jr. and Jake LaRavia scored 14 and 13 points off the bench, respectively.
The Grizzlies performed well in two key areas on Wednesday: three-point shooting and rebounds.
Memphis shot 50 percent on their deep-range shots compared to Los Angeles' 31.3 mark. The Grizzlies got a significant boost from Jaylen Wells, who went 5-for-7 from beyond the arc. In addition, rapidly ascending guard Scotty Pippen nailed three of his four shots from deep.
The Grizzlies outrebounded the Lakers 50-39. Of course, Santi Aldama's 11 boards helped push Memphis.
Despite Ja Morant's injury update, Memphis has positive things to take away from Wednesday's win. The Grizzlies improved to 5-4. They will take on their next matchup in Washington against the Wizards on Nov. 8.
Can Memphis keep their foot on the gas and get back to the top of the Western Conference standings?
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