The Memphis Grizzlies have been hit with another harrowing blow. Just as they were gaining momentum with Ja Morant‘s return from a 25-game suspension, a troubling injury update has cast a shadow on their prospects once more. Morant will be sidelined for the remainder of the season due to surgery for a torn labrum in his right shoulder. His absence has severely impacted the team’s performance, evident in their 7-20 record without him. However, the team managed to sneak a win against the Phoenix Suns, with four players scoring in double digits.

Next on their agenda is a trip to Dallas to face their South Division rivals, the Mavericks, but the odds might be against them. However, Luka Doncic‘s status for the game could potentially tilt the balance in their favor.

Dallas Mavericks injury report and predicted starting lineup

Luka Doncic’s status remains uncertain for tonight’s matchup against the Grizzlies. He sat out the team’s victory over the Portland Trail Blazers due to a right ankle swelling but managed to play in their win against the Minnesota Timberwolves after initially being listed as a game-time decision. While the injury doesn’t appear severe, the team might be opting for a cautious approach to ensure adequate rest for their star player.

Kyrie Irving, on the other hand, is not on the injury report and is expected to play tonight. Uncle Drew was previously sidelined for 12 games because of a right heel contusion he sustained during the team’s game against the Portland Trail Blazers on December 8 but has been on a hot streak since returning to action on New Year’s Day.

In addition to Luka, Grant Williams is also listed as day-to-day due to an ankle injury. However, the Mavs will miss the services of Dereck Lively II (ankle), Dante Exum (heel), and Maxi Kleber (toe). Therefore, the Mavs are expected to start the game with Luka Doncic, Kyrie Irving, Josh Green, Derrick Jones Jr., and Dwight Powell. While the injury report sounds positive for the Mavs faithful, it spells trouble for the Morant-less Grizzlies.

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Can Morant-less Grizzlies secure a win tonight?

Ja Morant’s NBA comeback was cut short after just nine games. The 24-year-old suffered a subluxation during a training session, and subsequent MRI results confirmed a labrum tear in his right shoulder. Typically, recovery from this injury spans around six months, indicating that Morant is expected to be fully healthy by the time next season rolls around.

Read More: Ja Morant Expresses Sorrow on Season Ending Injury With 2 Words

However, Desmond Bane, Marcus Smart, and Jaren Jackson Jr. have been impressive as of late, as evident in their 115-121 win against the Suns. But even JJJ is listed as questionable due to a right heel contusion for tonight’s matchup. The list does not end here. The Grizzlies will be without Derrick Rose (thigh), Brandon Clarke (Achilles), and Steven Adams (knee), while Santi Aldama (left knee contusion) is doubtful. Therefore, the Grizzlies could start the game with Marcus Smart, Desmond Bane, Luke Kennard, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Bismack Biyombo. Therefore, a victory tonight seems like an uphill battle given the team’s injury-plagued roster.

Do you think the shorthanded Grizzlies can outscore the Mavericks? Let us know in the comments!

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