Ja Morant's Stellar Return Propels Grizzlies Past Lakers
In a standout performance on Wednesday night, the Memphis Grizzlies triumphed over the Los Angeles Lakers with a commanding 131-114 win. Central to this victory was Ja Morant, who marked his return with an emphatic display, scoring 20 points in just 24 minutes on the court, despite the game ending prematurely for him due to a hamstring injury in the third quarter. This contest marked the first meeting between the two teams since the conclusion of the 2023-24 regular season.
The confrontation bore remnants of rivalry, stemming from past encounters where the Lakers had proven a stumbling block for Morant. The Grizzlies star had previously missed an opportunity to face the Lakers due to a shoulder injury that concluded his season in January 2024. Reflecting on past experiences, Morant didn't mince words, "I don't like them. They knocked me out of the playoffs. And then last year we had a game, and they came here and popped it on our home floor when I was in street clothes. I wasn't tonight."
These sentiments mirrored the intensity and emotion displayed by Morant on the court. Shooting 7 of 17 from the field, Morant's aggression set the tone early, further evidenced by his interaction with Lakers' star, “[James] came back and did it respectfully. ...He did it, and I don't back down from nobody. I don't care who you are.” His approach not only boosted his own performance but also galvanized his teammates to follow suit. "My job was to just come back. I got my bucket, and I set the tone. My teammates fed off of it, and you see what happens," Morant explained post-game.
Despite the abrupt end to his participation in the game due to a right hamstring injury, Morant's impact was palpable. His return strained Lakers' defenses, showcasing his competitive spirit and determination in an intense matchup. Expressing his unwavering resolve, Morant quipped, "I think I did the 'too small' to somebody who was too small."
For the Grizzlies, who have started the season with a modest 5-4 record, Morant's performance signaled a positive trajectory. His current season average is pegged at 20.6 points, illustrating his offensive prowess and value to the team's dynamics. While his postseason exit at the hands of the Lakers in the opening round of the 2022-23 season remains a memory to contend with, this recent outing serves as a promising sign of what's to come.
As the Grizzlies continue their campaign, Morant's role remains indispensable, not just in scoring but also in leadership. His mindset reflects a drive to conquer bigger challenges, "Top dog in our league. You take out the top dog, who else you fear?" These sentiments are likely to resonate as the Grizzlies look to build on this victory and establish themselves as serious contenders in the league.