As the NBA season unfolds, a range of significant player comebacks is poised to impact the current standings and dynamics across several teams. Highlighting these anticipated returns is Ja Morant, the dynamic guard for the Memphis Grizzlies, whose absence due to a right hip subluxation and pelvic muscle strain has been felt deeply by his team.
Ja Morant's Impact on the Grizzlies
The Memphis Grizzlies have managed a respectable 5-4 record during Morant's eight-game absence. This rides somewhat against the tide as they maintain a 10-7 standing in the Western Conference. As Morant is officially listed as questionable for the upcoming clash against the Portland Trail Blazers, fans and analysts alike are keenly observing to see if his return can bolster the team’s offensive and defensive play.
New Orleans Pelicans Struggle with Injuries
The New Orleans Pelicans face a different set of challenges as they attempt to navigate an injury-plagued roster. Dejounte Murray, expected back soon, broke his left hand in the season opener, and the team has struggled to find its footing, holding a 4-13 record. Murray's return offers a glimmer of hope, although Brandon Ingram is still listed as questionable, and Zion Williamson, Herb Jones, and Jose Alvarado continue to be sidelined.
Adding to their potential reinforcement is CJ McCollum, who is expected back from a strained right adductor and is probable to play. This could significantly improve the team's fortunes as they seek to turn their season trajectory around.
Durant and Beal to Elevate the Suns
For the Phoenix Suns, the absence of star players Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal has been palpable. Since Durant's sidelining due to a strained left calf on November 8 and Beal's similar fate starting November 12, the Suns have encountered a bumpy road. They began the season with a powerful 8-1 surge but found themselves struggling at 1-6 without Durant and winless in five games without both stars. Currently boasting a 9-7 record, the Suns are optimistic about their future.
These key players are marked as probable for the upcoming game against the Los Angeles Lakers, a development that could invigorate the Suns both offensively and defensively. The potential return of these stars has everyone in the organization, including forward Ryan Dunn, excited. "Bringing that extra firepower back to the team is going to help us a lot," Dunn remarked, hinting at the transformative effect these athletes’ returns could catalyze.
Porzingis Powers On
In another corner of the league, the Boston Celtics' Kristaps Porzingis is continuing to impress this season. Porzingis remains a pivotal figure in Boston's campaign as the team seeks to capitalize on his versatile skills on both ends of the court.
In a different spectacle, Scotty Pippen Jr. showed he has inherited some of his legendary father’s capabilities. Scoring 30 points and securing 10 assists, Pippen led his team to a noteworthy victory against the Chicago Bulls, illustrating that the younger players are also making their mark as the season progresses.
As these players return to the court, the NBA landscape is poised for significant shifts. Teams are looking forward to redefining their trajectories, capitalizing on both the return of experienced stars and the rise of new talents.