Before the All-Star Game, the Grizzlies were one of the best-in-form teams in the league. In the previous 27 games, the Grizzlies have won 22 games. As an All-Star starter, Morant averaged 29.5 points, 6.9 assists and 6.2 rebounds per game with 50.9% shooting.
The game against the Timberwolves was Morant's debut after All-Star Weekend. The 6'3-inch defender did poorly before injuring in the middle of the third quarter (4-of-15 before injury). And in the fourth quarter, Morant returned from the locker room to the court.
Although his shots are still not accurate enough, as long as he is on the field, the role is still very obvious. In the fourth quarter, Morant alone scored 14 points. If it weren't for Russell's outburst, he would probably have led the team to win the game. In the end, Morant scored 20 points on 7-of-25 shooting (4-of-15 before injury). After the game, both Morant and head coach Tyler Jenkins spoke about the details of his condition.
"Just a bad slip. I had some pain in my hips..." Morant said after the game. "Everything was ok... If I can run, if I can walk, I'll play. Unless the healthcare provider does not agree. He also said he was going to rest and get treatment so he could be ready for Sunday's game. Morant's words were enough to give the Grizzlies fans a sigh of relief.
Coach Jenkins said: "Morant was nervous in the third quarter and needed to do extra stretching in the dressing room. Morant will be sore tomorrow, but that's why Morant was able to return in the fourth quarter and play the whole quarter. ”
Only time will give the answer. Memphis has a day off, and then they'll head to Chicago to play against the hot Bulls.