Ja Morant’s Injury Update: Will the Grizzlies Star Play vs. Miami Heat After Ankle Soreness?

Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant is officially listed as available for Friday night’s matchup against the Miami Heat, despite dealing with lingering soreness in his left ankle. The update follows growing concern over his health after he was added to the team’s injury report earlier this week.

The injury stems from a sprain sustained during practice on October 5, which forced Morant to miss all five preseason games. His participation on Friday signals progress, but the team is expected to monitor his minutes closely as a precaution.

Ja Morant’s Ankle Issue Raises Early-Season Concern

According to the NBA’s official injury report, Morant has been cleared to play, though he continues to wear ankle braces for added support. The Grizzlies’ medical staff described his condition as “left ankle soreness,” indicating the injury is still being managed rather than fully resolved.

Morant returned to action in the season opener on October 22 against the New Orleans Pelicans, where he delivered a dominant 35-point performance on 13-of-20 shooting. He sealed the win with a clutch floater in the final seconds, proving he can still perform at an elite level despite discomfort.

However, the lingering soreness means the Grizzlies must proceed with caution. The team is already without several key backcourt players, including Ty Jerome (calf strain) and Scotty Pippen Jr. (toe procedure), leaving limited options behind Morant.

Memphis Depth Tested Ahead of Game vs. Miami

With Morant’s availability uncertain until the final report, rookie Javon Small was the only fully healthy point guard during practice sessions. Veteran Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, who has soreness in his right ankle, is also listed as questionable, adding to Memphis’s backcourt concerns.

Morant’s leadership and playmaking are crucial to the Grizzlies’ offensive rhythm. His presence transforms the team’s tempo and shot creation, especially in fast breaks. Without him, Memphis would likely rely heavily on Desmond Bane for primary scoring duties.

While Morant’s clearance is a relief for fans, his ankle will continue to be closely watched throughout the season. Re-aggravating the injury could lead to long-term setbacks that impact both his availability and the team’s playoff ambitions.

Grizzlies Fans Hope for Stability as Season Begins

For now, Memphis supporters can breathe a sigh of relief knowing Morant is suiting up against Miami. The team’s success largely depends on his explosiveness and ability to command the offense. Any limitation in his mobility could alter the game’s dynamics, particularly against a strong defensive team like the Heat.

Ja Morant’s injury update brings cautious optimism. He will play Friday night, but the Grizzlies will need to balance his minutes and recovery carefully to ensure his long-term health remains intact.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is Ja Morant’s current injury?

Ja Morant is managing soreness in his left ankle after spraining it during practice on October 5. He has been cleared to play against the Heat.

Q2: Is Ja Morant playing vs. the Miami Heat?

Yes, Morant is listed as available for Friday’s game against Miami, according to the official NBA injury report.

Q3: How did Morant perform in his return game?

Morant scored 35 points on 65% shooting in the season opener against the Pelicans, including a game-winning floater in the final minute.

Q4: Who replaces Morant if he sits out future games?

If Morant is unable to play, rookie Javon Small and Desmond Bane would likely share ball-handling duties for the Grizzlies.

Q5: What’s next for Memphis after this game?

The Grizzlies will face a tough early-season stretch, with upcoming matchups against the Mavericks and Warriors, where Morant’s health will be key.