After missing all but nine games in the 2023-24 season, Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant returned from his injury and suspension-ridden year on a mission. Through his first eight appearances of the new season, Morant averaged 20.6 points and a career-high 9.1 assists per game, leading Memphis to a 5-3 record in games that he played in.

Also missing: Marcus Smart and Desmond Bane. It didn’t seem to matter in a 128-104 rout that was never in doubt.

Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant was listed on the injury report ahead of Friday's game against the Washington Wizards.

The Memphis sensation fell awkwardly after attempting to catch an alley-oop pass from Jake LaRavia during the third quarter. He missed the dunk, crashed to the ground, and slowly got back up. After the Lakers scored in the succeeding possession, the limping Morant suddenly signaled a substitution from acting head coach Tuomas Iisalo.

The Memphis Grizzlies ruled out star guard Ja Morant for their game Friday night against the Washington Wizards because of hip soreness. Morant played just 24 minutes in Wednesday's 131-114 win over the Los Angeles Lakers,

The Memphis Grizzlies are back in action on Friday night at FedExForum against the Washington Wizards. Follow along for live updates.

The Memphis Grizzlies are playing host to the visiting Washington Wizards for the first game of their regular season series matchup. The Grizzlies are coming off of a great team win against LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers and look to push their winning streak to two games.