Ja Morant Talks 'Terrible' Return from Injury for Grizzlies: 'I Should Have Been Out'

Memphis Grizzlies point guard Ja Morant returned to the lineup for Wednesday's contest against the Oklahoma City Thunder after missing two games with a shoulder injury, but he regretted his decision in the aftermath of the 120-103 loss.

"Terrible," Morant said, per Damichael Cole of the Memphis Commercial Appeal. "I should have been out. But I was out there. Regardless of out, in—there's going to be something said."

He also said, "I don't know" when asked if the shoulder injury will be an issue for the rest of the season.

Morant went 8-of-22 from the field and 2-of-9 from deep in the loss on his way to 24 points, six assists and five turnovers.

Shoulder issues have been a concern at times this season, as the Grizzlies announced on Dec. 30 that Morant had been diagnosed with a Grade 1 AC joint sprain.

He also missed time before the shoulder setback with a posterior hip subluxation and multiple Grade 1 pelvic muscle strains.

Any physical setback to Morant is sure to raise concern, especially after he underwent season-ending shoulder surgery in 2023-24. That injury, plus a suspension, limited him to just nine games last season.

He has largely played well when on the floor this season and is averaging 20.9 points, 7.4 assists, 4.1 rebounds and 1.2 steals per game.

While the Grizzlies don't have anyone who can replicate Morant's production, look for the combination of Scotty Pippen Jr. and Luke Kennard to see more playing time if the team's star is further sidelined.