The Memphis Grizzlies tips off the NBA season with a couple of road games. Taylor Jenkins stated that it would be more than likely that Jaren Jackson Jr. will not be available to play in those first two games. He did leave the possibility of Jackson playing in the season opener on Saturday, October 26.
Nothing taken for granted.
The eyes of the NBA will be watching to see if All-Star guard Ja Morant has learned anything after missing nearly all last season due to a suspension and a season-ending injury. When asked if he takes for granted being able to start the season, Morant said emphatically “Hell naw, not at all.”
Morant has been more loose this season and stated that he is very happy. He has not been giving any bulletin board materials for the media or other teams to use as click bait or motivation. He has the air of confidence that has been missing for the last 18 months. He doesn’t look like he has the weight of the world on his shoulders.
On if he takes for granted being in the NBA, Marcus Smart said, “Never, if you know me and read my story. I never try to take it for granted. There are too many people that wish they could be in our situation. You can’t take it for granted. I am human and sometimes I do. We saw what happened last year. We are healthy and want to start the year off right.”
On being able to be an NBA coach Jenkins said, “It is an unbelievable blessing. With JA and BC, guys that came in 2019 with me, I catch myself and say can you believe it has been six years. I keep wanting to be a better coach and teammate. This could be taken away at any moment. God has blessed me to do what I love to do, compete and teach in the game of basketball.”
Injury update
According to Jenkins, Vince Williams is a couple of weeks away. Cam Spencer and Luke Kennard are a week away. Jackson’s hamstring is in a good spot, and he has been progressing well. They are going to be mindful of his conditioning and take extra precautions with him.
Mindset heading into the season
A couple years ago, the Grizzlies were the feel-good story. Last year because of injuries, they missed the playoffs and fell off the radar of many NBA fans. They know they are the underdogs heading into the season.
On starting the season on the road, Smart said, “It is part of the game. We are trying to achieve a goal, and it starts here. We start the season on the road. It will set the tone for us. We are going to be the underdog this year and we embrace it and look forward to it.”
Last season, the Grizzlies took a lot of punches from teams. The team had a lot of fight in them, but they could not close games. This year, they will be looking to get some payback. On when will we see that swagger again, Morant said, “It is here. You are looking at it. We will have it day one, in Salt Lake City. You will see it.”
The Grizzlies return to the FedExForum for the home season opener on Saturday, October 26, at 7 pm. Memphis will host the Orlando Magic and will look to turn the tables of having one of the worst home records last season.
