Morant’s right shoulder is bothering him again after a hard collision ends his night in New Orleans

By BRETT MARTEL The Associated Press

New Orleans Pelicans forward Herbert Jones (2) drives to the basket while center Daniel Theis, left, sets a hard pick against Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (12) in the second half of an NBA basketball game in New Orleans, Friday, Dec. 27, 2024. Morant was injured on the play. (AP Photo/Peter Forest)[ASSOCIATED PRESS/Peter Forest]

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Ja Morant’s right shoulder is bothering him again after the Grizzlies’ star guard was knocked out of Memphis’ 132-124 victory in New Orleans. Morant was hurt when he crashed into hard but legal screen set by Daniel Theis during the third quarter on Friday night. Morant walked to the locker room to be examined and returned to the bench, but not to the game. Grizzlies coach Taylor Jenkins had no update to provide on Morant’s condition after the game. About one year ago, a torn labrum in the same shoulder ended Morant’s 2023-24 season. The Grizzlies were scheduled to have an update Saturday on the status of all injured players.