The Memphis Grizzlies can’t seem to catch a break this season as they are currently plagued by a multitude of injuries. The latest blow to the team comes in the form of guard Marcus Smart, who is set to miss three to five weeks with a sprained left foot. This news further adds to the Grizzlies’ already lengthy injury list, making their road to success even more challenging.
The Grizzlies provided more insight into Marcus Smart’s injury, revealing that he hurt his foot during a game against the Los Angeles Lakers. Smart, who was acquired via a trade this offseason and was named the 2022 NBA Defensive Player of the Year, has been an integral part of the team’s lineup. He is currently averaging 12.5 points per game, making him the third-highest scorer for the Grizzlies. In addition, Smart leads the team in assists and steals, showcasing his importance on both ends of the court.
Unfortunately for Memphis, the injury to Marcus Smart is just one piece of a larger puzzle. The Grizzlies are already dealing with a series of setbacks, including the suspension of two-time All-Star guard Ja Morant for the first 25 games of the season. Additionally, center Steven Adams has been ruled out due to a knee injury that requires surgery. The team is also missing Brandon Clarke, who is still recovering from a torn Achilles tendon, and Xavier Tillman Sr., who is sidelined with a knee injury. Luke Kennard is another player on the injury report with a left knee bone bruise, while rookie GG Jackson II is out for Saturday night’s game against the San Antonio Spurs.
With numerous key players out of commission, the Grizzlies’ chances of success have taken a significant hit. Currently sitting at the bottom of the Western Conference standings with a 2-9 record, Memphis is struggling to find its rhythm on the court. The absence of players like Smart and Morant, who are both instrumental in the team’s offensive and defensive strategies, has left a void that is difficult to fill. The Grizzlies will need to rely on their depth and the remaining healthy players to step up and carry the load until their injured stars can return.
The Grizzlies’ upcoming game against the Boston Celtics was expected to be a reunion for Marcus Smart, who had spent his entire career with the Celtics before joining Memphis. However, his foot sprain will keep him sidelined for that matchup. As for Ja Morant, he is set to make his comeback from suspension on December 19th against the New Orleans Pelicans, just a few weeks after Smart’s projected return date.
In the meantime, the Grizzlies will need to regroup and find a way to overcome the adversity they are facing. The next few weeks will be crucial for the team as they strive to stay competitive in a tough Western Conference. The resilience and determination of the remaining players will be put to the test as they try to keep the Grizzlies afloat in the midst of this challenging stretch.
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