PORTLAND, Ore. — Portland Trail Blazers guard Ja Morant was forced to exit Thursday night’s matchup against his former team with 7:46 remaining in the fourth quarter due to a left hamstring injury, halting what was intended to be a marquee reunion.
Morant produced 14 points and three assists across 23 minutes on the floor before limping off. Shortly after his departure, the Trail Blazers officially ruled him out for the remainder of the contest as the ESPN reported. The Memphis Grizzlies capitalized on the momentum and secured a 124-103 victory at the Moda Center, handing Portland its first loss of the young season.
Postgame Uncertainty and Evaluation
Speaking to reporters after the final buzzer, Portland head coach Micah Nori addressed the severity of the setback. Nori stated that Morant felt a sudden twinge in his hamstring area during the fourth-quarter sequence. Medical staff immediately began evaluations in the locker room, with further updates anticipated following Friday’s clinical examination.
Regarding his overall level of anxiety regarding the injury, Nori admitted to Field Level Media, “I don’t really know because this is the first time I’ve been around him when he’s felt something. … There’s always concern, but I’m hoping it’s nothing major, obviously.” The immediate status of the star guard for upcoming team practices and travel remains unconfirmed pending test results.
Context of the Matchup and Grizzlies’ Dominance
The Thursday night contest marked Morant’s first appearance against the franchise where he spent the first seven seasons of his professional career. Drafted second overall by Memphis in 2019, Morant earned Rookie of the Year honors in 2019-20 and captured the NBA Most Improved Player award in 2021-22 before being traded to Portland on June 29 in a deal that brought Jerami Grant and Kris Murray to the Grizzlies.
While Morant fought to establish rhythm before his exit, Sportsnet noted that Memphis was propelled by a historic triple-double from Cameron Boozer, who posted 18 points, 12 rebounds, and 12 assists. The victory advanced the Grizzlies’ undefeated record to 5-0, while the Trail Blazers dropped to 3-1. Deni Avdija led Portland with 24 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists in the losing effort.
Next Steps on the Schedule
With the opening week homestand concluded, both organizations face quick turnarounds. The Trail Blazers travel to face the Utah Jazz on Saturday, while the Grizzlies visit the Sacramento Kings on the same night. Portland’s coaching staff expects to provide an official medical bulletin on Morant’s left hamstring prior to the team’s departure.