MEMPHIS, Tenn. — After the Memphis Grizzlies’ defeat by the Oklahoma City Thunder with a score of 120-103 on Wednesday night, guard Ja Morant expressed regret about playing through a nagging right shoulder injury.
Despite leading his team with 24 points, Morant struggled with efficiency, managing to score on 8 of 22 shots and landing just 2 out of 9 three-point attempts across nearly 32 minutes of play. During the game, he contributed six assists but was also responsible for five out of the team’s total 15 turnovers.
Morant had previously been sidelined for the team’s last two games, both of which ended in last-second losses, due to what was diagnosed as a contusion on his right deltoid.
Reflecting on his performance, Morant candidly described it as “terrible,” elaborating by stating that he should have taken more time to rest his injury. Despite the physical challenges, he was on the court and acknowledged the criticisms that come with playing or sitting out.
The young star has faced scrutiny this season regarding his playing time, often having to address concerns from critics when he missed games because of various injuries like soreness, illness, or sprains. Throughout the current season, Morant has been absent from a dozen games due to these ailments.
He reaffirmed, “I probably wouldn’t have played,” emphasizing the physical toll he’s faced. However, he played through it, highlighting that his injuries are not a new occurrence but something that has been consistent throughout the season.
In his own words, Morant summarized his situation: “I played like this all season honestly. It is what it is. Got to get the win.”
