Remember 2021? The first edition of the Play-In tournament when the Grizzlies and Warriors went head-to-head for the eighth seed in the West. Ja Morant and Co. won that battle and sent the Bay Area team packing. Well, it’s time to run it back. Yes, the two rivals will meet again tonight, this time fighting for the seventh seed. But will the Memphis team have to face that challenge without Ja? Doesn’t look like it!
Morant has been dealing with a shoulder issue all season long, which is why he was limited to playing only 50 games. He even missed Sunday’s regular season finale against the Mavs after being downgraded from doubtful to out because of the injury. Fortunately for the Grizzlies, Ja is no longer listed on the injury report, which means he is likely to suit up for tonight’s Warriors clash.
Sure enough, Morant’s availability is a massive boost for the Memphis team. That’s because he is still their best player despite the injury woes, averaging 23.2 points and over seven assists. And his clutch gene could help them beat Stephen Curry and Co. to book a playoff spot. Well, the odds are in the Grizzlies’ favor because they have beaten the Warriors in the Play-In tournament once before. Moreover, Stephen Curry and Co. have never won a Play-In game and hold a 0-3 record.
Although the game will be played in the Warriors’ home court because they are the higher seed, it has not proven to be much of an advantage recently. All three losses in their final five regular season games were at Chase Center. So, the Grizzlies might have a slight edge despite playing in enemy territory. And Ja’s availability only adds to the advantage. However, there are a few stars who will not suit up.
Grizzlies set to miss key starter as they aim to avoid Stephen Curry’s beatdown
While Ja’s return seems likely, the Grizzlies will be missing multiple key players. Of course, Zyon Pullin and Brandon Clarke will continue to remain sidelined recovering from their respective injuries. But the biggest blow is Jaylen Wells, who was ruled out for the season after taking a nasty fall during last week’s Hornets clash. He suffered a fractured right wrist and a concussion—eventually done for the season.
Jan 6, 2025; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Dallas Mavericks guard Klay Thompson (31) handles the ball as Memphis Grizzlies forward Jaylen Wells (0) defends during the first quarter at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images
The young rookie showed massive potential in his debut season and turned into a regular starter for the Grizzlies. He averaged 10.4 points and over three rebounds before getting injured. Moreover, his length was a huge asset on defense. Surely, the Grizzlies will miss it tonight as they face the Warriors. Last time these two sides met, Steph took over and dropped a 52-point double-double to lead his team to victory. Even Ja had 36 points, but it was not enough.
So, the Memphis team would be hoping to avoid the same outcome tonight and beat the Warriors in the Play-In tournament for the second time. Do you think Ja Morant and Co. can do it?
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