bleacherreport
In a highly anticipated matchup, Ja Morant went head-to-head with the Memphis Grizzlies for the first time since his offseason trade to the Portland Trail Blazers. However, the reunion did not go as Morant had hoped, as the Grizzlies secured a 124-103 victory to remain undefeated at 5-0, handing Portland its first loss of the campaign. Morant's night was cut short when he was ruled out in the fourth quarter due to a hamstring injury.
Morant, who spent his first seven NBA seasons with Memphis and became a fan favorite, downplayed the emotional significance of the game earlier in the week, calling it "just another basketball game on the schedule" and insisting he harbored no ill will toward his former team. Despite his comments, the loss surely stung for the star guard, who finished with 14 points, two rebounds, and three assists in limited action.
Deni Avdija continued his strong start to the season for Portland, leading the team with 24 points, nine rebounds, seven assists, and one block. Rookie Cam Boozer, the No. 4 overall pick, notched his first career triple-double for Memphis with 18 points, 11 rebounds, and 12 assists. Cedric Coward added 17 points, eight rebounds, four assists, and three steals, while Zach Edey contributed 13 points and seven rebounds. Damian Lillard struggled, managing only nine points, two rebounds, and two assists.
Key Analysis
The Grizzlies, widely expected to be in rebuilding mode, have defied expectations with a young roster that is now eyeing a playoff push. Their 5-0 start signals that they may be ahead of schedule. Meanwhile, the Blazers have also shown promise despite the loss, and Morant will have a chance for redemption when the teams meet again in February for his homecoming game in Memphis.
Originally reported by bleacherreport.