The Memphis Grizzlies received a significant blow with the news that star point guard Ja Morant will be sidelined until the fall due to a torn labrum that requires surgery. As the team looks ahead to next season, some fantasy managers might consider moving on as well. However, it is important to note that we are only halfway through the current season, making it premature to give up on Morant and the Grizzlies’ fantasy potential. Although Morant’s absence for the first 25 games of the season resulted in poor performance by the team, there are still viable options within the squad to step up and produce respectable numbers.
While the Grizzlies struggled without Morant during the first portion of the season, Marcus Smart emerged as a player capable of taking on a larger role. Smart, who is available in 31% of ESPN leagues, missed 17 games due to a left foot sprain. However, he has recently scored 53 points in the past two games, demonstrating his potential for sustained production. With Morant out, Smart’s usage is expected to significantly increase, making him an attractive fantasy option.
Prior to Morant’s return, Desmond Bane and Jaren Jackson Jr. carried the Grizzlies’ offense for most of the season. Bane, who averages 42.9 fantasy points per game, showed improved efficiency and assist numbers when playing alongside Morant. While he remains a top-30 fantasy option in points leagues and is rostered in all leagues, it may not be wise to aggressively pursue a trade for him following Morant’s injury.
On the other hand, Jackson’s numbers have declined compared to last season, especially in rebounds and blocks. As a fantasy manager, there is a concern that the Grizzlies could choose to rest Jackson in the second half of the season if there are any signs of injury. Considering his injury history, this might be an opportune time to explore trade options in redraft formats.
Unfortunately, beyond the aforementioned players, there are limited viable fantasy options within the Grizzlies’ roster. Santi Aldama had a productive period in November but has not been able to maintain a consistent level of performance since then. Xavier Tillman showed promise last season but has struggled with shooting efficiency this year. Bismack Biyombo is on the team due to injuries to Steven Adams and Brandon Clarke, while Derrick Rose is currently sidelined with a thigh injury. Luke Kennard had a lackluster performance in a recent game, and Ziaire Williams has shown inconsistency. The most intriguing option among readily available Grizzlies players is Vince Williams Jr., who displayed a strong performance with 19 points, 9 rebounds, and 2 blocks in a surprising win over the Phoenix Suns. However, Williams’ statistical output has been inconsistent, making it difficult for fantasy managers to gauge his value.
As Ja Morant’s truncated season comes to an end, it is essential to recognize his significant contributions to fantasy teams. Averaging 25.1 PPG and 8.1 APG, Morant achieved an impressive 45.3 fantasy points overall. Only 22 players in the league have managed to average 45 fantasy points per game this season, highlighting Morant’s value to fantasy teams. While Jalen Johnson, Jalen Duren, and Daniel Gafford are the only players rostered in fewer than 75% of ESPN standard leagues averaging over 32 fantasy points per game, various players, including Collin Sexton, Bogdan Bogdanovic, Isaiah Hartenstein, and Caris LeVert, have accomplished this feat over the past 30 days.
Unfortunately, Morant is not the only point guard facing injury concerns. Chris Paul of the Golden State Warriors recently fractured his left hand and will be out for at least a month. Tyrese Haliburton of the Indiana Pacers also suffered a Grade 1 hamstring strain, requiring assistance from teammates to leave the court. Although the Pacers are set to evaluate Haliburton in two weeks, fantasy managers in redraft formats should continue to roster him in case he makes a return before the All-Star break. It is worth noting that Andrew Nembhard, who has prior experience as a point guard on successful Gonzaga teams in college, could be a valuable substitution for Haliburton. Despite a decrease in minutes and production this season, Nembhard has shown promise, providing an average of 10 PPG and 4.6 APG in seven starts.
The Memphis Grizzlies’ fantasy landscape has been significantly impacted by Ja Morant’s injury. While Marcus Smart presents an opportunity for increased usage and production, other key players, such as Desmond Bane and Jaren Jackson Jr., may see more fluctuation in their fantasy output. Fantasy managers should also explore the limited options within the Grizzlies’ roster, paying close attention to potential breakout performances. Meanwhile, injuries to other point guards, including Chris Paul and Tyrese Haliburton, further challenge fantasy teams. However, the emergence of Andrew Nembhard provides an intriguing prospect to consider. Despite the challenges posed by these injuries, fantasy managers must remain adaptable and vigilant in identifying potential replacements and monitoring the fantasy landscape.
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