Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant was helped off the court Wednesday after suffering an injury during the team's playoff game against the Oklahoma City Thunder. The incident occurred in Game 3 of the first-round series, adding significant concern to a Memphis team already struggling.
Morant fell after attempting a dunk, with the play involving Thunder defender Lu Dort. Despite a review by officials, no flagrant foul was called on the play. Morant was visibly in pain on the floor, attended to by the Grizzlies medical staff.
Before exiting, Morant had been off to his best start of the series, tallying 15 points and five assists in just 16 minutes of action. His departure casts further doubt on the Grizzlies' ability to compete in a series where they already trail.
The Thunder entered the series as heavy favorites, having won 68 games in the regular season and dominating previous matchups against Memphis. The Grizzlies dropped the first two games decisively, facing a commanding lead from Oklahoma City heading into Wednesday night.
Morant's overall performance in the series opener had been below par, shooting 38 percent from the field and 25 percent on three-pointers through two games. While he had a brief, productive stretch in Game 2 that hinted at his signature "loud" greatness, the Thunder's defense effectively neutralized his impact for large portions of the games.
Memphis relies heavily on Morant's energy, fast pace, and ability to drive downhill. His usual bold and demonstrative presence on the court often fuels the team. However, his demeanor had been noticeably subdued in the face of consecutive blowout losses in Games 1 and 2.
The Thunder are particularly challenging defensively, featuring multiple disruptive perimeter defenders like Dort, Jalen Williams, Alex Caruso, and Cason Wallace who apply relentless ball pressure, making it difficult for Grizzlies ball handlers, including Morant.
For the Grizzlies to have any chance in the series, or even to show competitiveness, many believe Morant needs to rediscover the characteristics that previously elevated the team. The challenges against the Thunder's defense and their dominance in areas like transition points have made this difficult.
Ultimately, the lopsided nature of the season series, where the Thunder have won all six games by double digits, raises questions about the future direction of the Grizzlies roster.
“I’ve got to be better. It’s simple,” Morant said after Tuesday’s loss. “If I be better, we’ll be better.”
