Memphis forward/center Jaren Jackson Jr. said he “feels for” Ja Morant after reports surfaced that the 26-year-old point guard is available in trade discussions. “That’s my brother. No matter what, he changed my life coming here,” Jackson told reporters following Friday’s one-point loss to Oklahoma City.
Jackson on mentorship and new system
In a separate interview with Mark Medina of EssentiallySports, Jackson detailed his adjustment to head coach Tuomas Iisalo’s offense, reflected on last offseason’s long-term contract extension and described his role as a mentor to rookie forward Cedric Coward. Jackson said he advises Coward to “stay consistent and don’t get too high or low,” lessons he learned earlier in his career.
Morant’s injury status
Iisalo told reporters that Morant’s recent absences are unrelated to trade speculation. The guard will miss his fifth consecutive game on Sunday against Brooklyn because of a right calf contusion. “Strictly based on the injury,” the coach said.
Brooks critiques former team
Visiting Memphis with Phoenix on Wednesday, Dillon Brooks said the Grizzlies “moved too fast” in reshaping the roster, citing the departures of himself, Desmond Bane and Steven Adams. The Suns won the rematch comfortably.
Edey traveling, update pending
Second-year center Zach Edey, sidelined by a stress reaction in his left ankle, has been consulting medical specialists but will accompany the team on its upcoming European trip. Memphis meets Orlando in Berlin on Thursday and faces the Magic again next Sunday in London. Iisalo said a timetable for Edey should be announced soon.
Konchar cleared to play
John Konchar has been upgraded to available for Sunday’s game versus the Nets. The veteran wing had not played since Dec. 7 after undergoing thumb surgery.
Source: Hoops Rumors
