Ja Morant Nearing Return as Grizzlies Monitor Calf Strain
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Memphis Grizzlies head coach Tuomas Iisalo said Thursday that All-Star point guard Ja Morant has resumed on-court drills and is listed as day-to-day after missing nearly three weeks with a right calf strain. Morant, 26, has been out since November 15 and has not yet practiced at full speed or absorbed contact.
“He’s already moving and able to do some things with the team, so looking positive,” Iisalo told reporters, adding that several benchmarks remain before the guard is cleared for game action.
Even when Morant is available, Memphis will remain thin at the position. Reserves Scotty Pippen Jr. (toe), Ty Jerome (calf) and Javon Small (toe) are still sidelined.
Front-Office Outlook in Los Angeles
Sources briefed by The Athletic offered mixed signals regarding possible contract extensions for Clippers president of basketball operations Lawrence Frank and other executives. While some insiders believe deals are progressing, others characterized extension talk as premature. All sources emphasized owner Steve Ballmer’s preference for continuity, indicating no imminent changes despite the club’s slow start.
Jazz Chemistry Built in Finland
An offseason trip to Finland strengthened the bond between Utah rookie guard Keyonte George and forward Lauri Markkanen, Tony Jones of The Athletic reported. George’s breakout season has followed, while Markkanen reiterated his commitment to seeing the Jazz rebuild through. “I would love to be a part of the next great Jazz team,” the All-Star said.
Gillespie Seeks Consistency in Phoenix
Phoenix Suns point guard Collin Gillespie told Mark Medina of RG.org that increased minutes have sharpened his focus on efficiency. “I just want to continue to play good basketball and shoot the ball well and be efficient,” Gillespie said. “I want to prove that I can be a consistent role player in the NBA.” He added that learning from backcourt star Devin Booker has been pivotal.
Source: Hoops Rumors
