Not a good beginning for the Ja Morant-less Memphis Grizzlies, indeed. Tonight, at FedExForum, the Memphis Grizzlies had a face-off against the Dallas Mavericks. And the Grizzlies lost yet another game, making this the fourth consecutive loss of the season. It turns out the franchise is still not able to break free from the ‘loss’ momentum since the last game against the Washington Wizards on Saturday, October 28th.

Whatever the backstory might be, the team is struggling to stay afloat with a lacking defense. Turns out the team needs to call Ja Morant back on the hardwood to register a significant win. 

Marcus Smart is still optimistic after Luca beat the team

Luca is now the third player in NBA history to record a 30-point triple-double twice, and that too within just the first three games. It is worth noting that this record was set when Desmond Bane and Jaren Jr. were going full throttle. Although the Grizzlies secured a lead against the Mavericks in the first quarter, the team fell short on the scoring front in the next three quarters.

Marcus Smart, however, is not short on optimism. Even though Luca scored one bucket after another on the franchise, the 23-point-scoring point guard is still holding hopes for a bounce back.

Marcus said, “We get better every time we step out. One at a time. Guys are working their b*tt off. I love it and where we are headed.” 

Read More: Stephen Curry on Cloud 9 After Overcoming Last Season’s Struggles in Very First Attempt vs Kings

Ja Morant needed back on the hardwood

Although the team has Marcus Smart and Derrick Rose to fill the shoes as ball-handlers, the void still exists. Following the last loss against the Denver Nuggets, this one amounts to a question about the team’s capability. With every Frizzly fan awaiting the return of the star guard, the wait might be a little too long.

Since, the announcement of the 23-game suspension, the player has yet to set foot on the hardwood. With the first start against Zion Williamson and Co, the appearance might be like a mini-opening night for the team. Making his ‘return debut’ on December 19, 2023, Ja might lead the team to the conference finals this season.

With the next game against the Utah Jazz, stay tuned for the match highlights.