Grizzlies Assess Backcourt Options After Series of Guard Injuries
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The Memphis Grizzlies are weighing roster moves to bolster their backcourt ahead of Wednesday’s season opener, league sources told Grant Afseth of RG.org.
The urgency rose after guard Scotty Pippen Jr. underwent surgery on his left big toe and was ruled out for at least 12 weeks. Pippen appeared in 79 games last season, starting 21, and averaged 9.9 points, 4.4 assists and 3.3 rebounds.
Ja Morant remains week-to-week with the left ankle sprain he suffered in early October. Head coach Tuomas Iisalo said Morant is “ramping up well,” but the team plans to “keep being cautious,” leaving his availability for opening night uncertain.
Offseason acquisition Ty Jerome added to the injury list when he exited Friday’s preseason finale with a right calf strain. The club has not announced a timetable for his return.
Memphis already carries the maximum 15 standard contracts, so any immediate addition would likely be made through a two-way slot, possibly affecting PJ Hall, Olivier-Maxence Prosper or Javon Small. Small, a rookie guard from West Virginia, impressed during preseason action, averaging 10.8 points, 4.8 assists and 1.8 rebounds while shooting 52.9% from three-point range.
Team officials are also monitoring league-wide roster cuts for potential reinforcements, but for now they intend to rely on internal flexibility while injured players recover.
Source: Hoops Wire
