Ja Morant to Miss Remainder of NBA Season with Elbow Injury
Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant will undergo a platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection and miss the remainder of the 2025-26 NBA season, the team announced Tuesday night, effectively ending his campaign after a prolonged absence due to an elbow sprain.
Morant initially sustained the UCL sprain in his left elbow during a January 21st game against the Atlanta Hawks, a game the Grizzlies lost 124-22. The team stated that a recent consultation led to the recommendation of the PRP injection to aid in ligament healing. Following the injection, Morant will focus on offloading the elbow, with a full recovery anticipated before the start of the 2026-27 season.
The 26-year-old Morant, a two-time All-Star, averaged 19.5 points, 8.1 assists, and 3.3 rebounds in 20 starts this season. Throughout his seven-year career, he has averaged 22.4 points, 7.4 assists, and 4.6 rebounds per game. Morant was selected second overall by the Grizzlies in the 2019 NBA Draft and signed a five-year, $197.23 million contract extension in 2022, leaving two years and $87 million remaining on the deal.
This latest setback adds to a series of challenges for Morant, who has faced significant time away from the court in recent seasons due to both injuries and suspensions. He was reportedly available for trade earlier this season, reflecting the team’s consideration of options amid his ongoing issues.
The Grizzlies as well announced that forward Brandon Clarke will miss the rest of the season while continuing his recovery from a right calf strain. Center Zach Edey underwent a procedure Tuesday to address an ankle injury and is projected to be available before the 2026-27 season.
Currently holding a 25-27 record, the Grizzlies have lost 11 of their last 12 games, including their last three. They are 12th in the Western Conference standings and are scheduled to host the San Antonio Spurs, who boast a 54-18 record and currently sit in second place in the Western Conference, on Wednesday evening.