Mar 5, 2025; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Memphis Grizzlies head coach Taylor Jenkins talks with guard Ja Morant (12) during the fourth quarter against the Oklahoma City Thunder at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images Petre Thomas-Imagn Images

Ja Morant's Status for Grizzlies vs Mavericks

Originally posted on Memphis Grizzlies on SI
By Caleb Sisk | Last updated Mar 7, 2025 12:20 PM ET

The Dallas Mavericks and Memphis Grizzlies are set to meet for their third contest of the season on Friday. The Grizzlies and Mavericks split the first two matchups, but Friday's feels much more important than any other game, as both teams are trying to break their dreadful losing streaks.

The Grizzlies have lost their last four games, while the Mavericks have lost their last three. Unfortunately for both teams, they are each facing significant injury issues.

Following Wednesday's loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, Grizzlies star Ja Morant told the media that he probably should not have been playing through his shoulder injury and seemed questionable about his status going forward. But, the Grizzlies have surprisingly left him off of Friday's injury report.

Ja Morant said he probably should have been out tonight with the shoulder injury. It's not the first time he's fought through it.

"Gotta get the win" he said.

He said "I don't know" when asked if he will have to deal with it the rest of the season.
— Drew Hill (@DrewHill_DM) March 6, 2025

Morant has battled with a shoulder injury since last season when he suffered a torn labrum, which cut his 2023-24 campaign well short and has kept him out of some contests this year.

Fans have made it known that Morant playing on Friday is a bit concerning and are claiming that he needs rest. Morant is averaging 20.9 points, 7.4 assists, and 4.1 rebounds with 43/28/84 shooting splits this season, but has only played in 38 of Memphis' 62 games.

Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

One thing for certain is the Grizzlies need Morant at his best in the playoffs. If he continues to play injured, he will be far from his best when the postseason comes around.

The Grizzlies and Mavericks are set to tip off at 7:30 p.m. EST in Dallas on Friday on ESPN.

This article first appeared on Memphis Grizzlies on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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