Memphis Grizzlies’ injured players step up while stars get healthy

On By Littum

This story has been updated.

The Memphis Grizzlies’ mounting injuries early in the season only add to the frustration after a 2-3 start. The Grizzlies lost at home on Wednesday to the Brooklyn Nets and must turn around on Thursday to face the Milwaukee Bucks (1-5).

Jaren Jackson Jr. admitted Monday, after the Grizzlies beat the Chicago Bulls, that dealing with limited minutes is difficult as a competitor. As for star Ja Morant, he had three words after Wednesday’s game about playing 29 minutes.

“Live with it,” Morant said.

Here’s where the Grizzlies stand to start the day Thursday:

Yes Morant

Damage: Thigh soreness

Outlook: Morant has played less than 30 minutes in each game this season, sitting out Monday’s game against the Bulls and logging 29 minutes Wednesday against the Nets, where Morant finished with 14 points, 11 assists and 8 rebounds. For the first time since last Friday, Morant was not listed on the injury report.

Jaren Jackson Jr.

Damage: Hoarding

Outlook: Jackson has played in three games since returning from a hamstring injury, playing less than 30 minutes in each. Jackson played 28 minutes Wednesday with 30 points and four rebounds. He was not listed on Thursday’s injury report for the first time this season.

Desmond Bane

Damage: Suffered an oblique injury early in the third quarter against the Nets. Bane played 17 minutes with 10 points and 6 rebounds.

Outlook: Bane will face the Bucks. The Grizzlies will provide an update on his status this season after imaging results.

Marcus Smart

Damage: Rolled his right ankle against the Nets after playing six minutes.

Outlook: Smart is out against the Bucks. The Grizzlies will issue a more firm update on his playing status going forward after more imaging is done.