The absence of star point guard Ja Morant has left a noticeable void for the struggling Memphis Grizzlies. Serving a 25-game suspension imposed by the NBA, Morant’s hiatus has undoubtedly impacted the team’s performance.

The challenges for the Grizzlies don’t end with Morant’s absence. The loss of starting center Steven Adams, sidelined for the entire season due to a torn ACL suffered before playing a single game, has added to the team’s woes.

Once positioned as the second-best team in the Western Conference last season, the Grizzlies now find themselves grappling with a 3-13 record, underscoring the significant impact of their star player’s suspension.

However, there’s a glimmer of hope on the horizon as Morant edges closer to his return. With 16 games already played without their All-Star, the Grizzlies are counting down the days until Morant’s reinstatement.

Drew Hill of the Daily Memphian reports that Morant is intensifying his practice regimen, gradually increasing his repetitions as he prepares to rejoin the team. Despite the team’s current struggles, Morant remains committed and frustrated by his absence, expressing his desire to be back on the court supporting his teammates.

Grizzlies coach Taylor Jenkins acknowledged Morant’s frustration, stating, “He’s frustrated like all of us. He has openly talked to his team about how he wishes he was out there for them, and he wants to be out there for them.”

Morant’s suspension, stemming from a second social media appearance with a firearm, has presented challenges for the Grizzlies. Still, with Morant’s imminent return and a determination to overcome adversity, the team is optimistic about reclaiming its competitive edge in the Western Conference.