Ja Morant's Lingering Shoulder Injury: A Threat to Memphis Grizzlies' Playoff Hopes

Ja Morant's return to the starting lineup was met with a strong ovation from the FedExForum crowd, but his performance was hindered by a lingering right shoulder injury. The Grizzlies' star admitted that he may have sped up his return, saying "I should have been out. But I was out there. Regardless of out, in — there's going to be something said." Morant's health and availability have been significant concerns for the team, and his injury has raised questions about the Grizzlies' ability to make a deep playoff run.

The Grizzlies have lost four consecutive games, and Morant's injury has been a major factor in their struggles. Without a healthy Morant, the team has struggled to maintain their position in the Western Conference standings, and they are now just a game ahead of Houston in fifth place. The Grizzlies need Morant to be healthy if they are going to make a playoff run, but based on his comments, it's unclear if he will be back to full health at any point this season.

The Grizzlies' injuries are not limited to Morant, as Jaren Jackson Jr. is also week to week with a sprained left ankle. The timing of Jackson's injury couldn't be worse for Memphis, as they are sliding down the Western Conference standings. The Grizzlies' ability to make a deep playoff run will depend on the health of their core players, including Morant and Jackson. If they are unable to get healthy, the team may face significant challenges in the playoffs, and the front office may have to answer tough questions about the team's future.