The Memphis Grizzlies shut down Ja Morant for the season due to a left elbow UCL sprain. He played only 20 games and is expected to return for the 2026–27 season.
The Memphis Grizzlies shut down Ja Morant for the season on Tuesday night. The two-time All-Star has not played since January because of a left elbow UCL sprain.
Morant appeared in only 20 games this year. He missed time with calf soreness early in January, returned, hurt his elbow in his second game back, and never played again. A recent consultation resulted in a recommendation for a platelet-rich plasma injection to promote ligament healing. He is expected to be ready for the start of the 2026-27 season.
Morant's last game was Jan. 21 in Atlanta. He had 23 points and 12 assists before catching his elbow on the backboard going up to contest a shot.
"If I was basically whipping a pass to the opposite side with that hand is the biggest problem," Morant told reporters in late February. "Other than that, I feel like I can fight through it, but also still have to be smart."
Imaging showed the injury hadn't healed. The Grizzlies pushed his evaluation back twice before pulling the plug Tuesday.
Morant averaged 19.5 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 8.1 assists in his 20 appearances.
His name came up in trade talks as early as Jan. 9, when reports emerged that Memphis was willing to listen. Jaren Jackson Jr. and Desmond Bane were among four players dealt before the Feb. 5 deadline. Morant was not moved, though he made clear he didn't love watching Memphis deal Jackson.
"I wasn't a fan of it," Morant said, "but it's a business, so, like I told him, he's been a pro for eight years now, so continue to be that."
Asked how he sees himself fitting with the younger core now surrounding him: "The same I would fit with any other team. Just whatever Ja brings to the table."
"Why can't I be? I've been happy this whole time," Morant said when asked if he remains content in Memphis.
On whether he has a future there: "I hope so. You would know more than me. The internet is right there. Everything you're asking me has been on the internet."
Morant has two years and more than $87 million remaining on his contract. He has played 79 games over the past three seasons due to injuries and suspensions.
Brandon Clarke's season is done too. Clarke, 29, got into two games before going down again Dec. 20 against Washington with a right calf injury. He averaged four points and three rebounds. Memphis said Clarke is progressing but still needs more time before he can handle high-intensity work.
Edey had already been shut down after a left ankle procedure. Now he's had a second procedure, this one to deal with elbow discomfort. Edey, 23, played 11 games this season — Nov. 15 through Dec. 7 — putting up 13.6 points and 11.1 rebounds per game. He is also expected to be available for next season.