The plague of injuries has undoubtedly been the worst news of this start to the regular season. Over the past week and a half, it has seemed as though there has not been a single day when one of the competition’s big names was not affected by physical problems. And the run may well have continued overnight.
Ja Morant had to leave the Blazers’ game against the Grizzlies with discomfort, having been seen grabbing the back of his leg shortly before being substituted. The franchise has said the problem is in his left hamstring, where he felt a twinge that made him ask to come off.
It is unclear how much of the guard’s decision was precautionary, as only a few seconds earlier he was playing normally. Micah Nori could only confirm that more details would follow later today, so until that happens it is impossible to tell whether this is something serious or just a scare. Still, given the record this season, it is hard not to start feeling pessimistic every time something like this happens.
A spell on the sidelines would be tough news for Ja Morant, who has begun his time in Portland with great promise. Despite last night’s defeat, the Blazers have shown themselves to be one of the best-performing teams of this opening stretch and have looked like one of the most entertaining and efficient attacks, something that has a lot to do with the former Grizzlies player’s ability to drive and create. With luck, those strengths will be on show in their upcoming games.