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Grizzlies’ Morant out at least three weeks with elbow injury

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Memphis Grizzlies star guard Ja Morant will likely be out through the All-Star break after sustaining a UCL sprain in his left elbow, the team announced on Saturday.

The Grizzlies released a statement on Saturday saying that Morant sustained the injury during Wednesday’s 124-122 home loss to the Atlanta Hawks and that he would be re-evaluated in three weeks.

Memphis’ last game before the All-Star break is on Feb. 11.

Morant’s recovery timeline is also expected to extend past the Feb. 5 trade deadline, joining the Milwaukee Bucks’ Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Dallas Mavericks’ Anthony Davis as injured players currently involved in trade rumours.

Under the NBA’s collective bargaining agreement, injured players can be traded as long as both teams sign off on a physical exam.

The Grizzlies had previously made it known to other teams that Morant was available for trade following years of friction between Memphis’ front office and the former No. 2 overall pick.

Morant responded by publicly restating his loyalty to Memphis, citing the Grizzlies logo tattoo on his back.

The Toronto Raptors had previously been linked to interest in Morant, according to multiple media outlets, but it remains unclear if his injury will change his trade viability.

A two-time All-Star, Morant stormed onto the scene in his 2019-20 rookie season, astonishing fans with his fearless drives and high-flying dunks.

Morant’s value, however, has declined in recent years as he has had trouble staying on the court, either due to persistent injuries or a suspension for posting a video to social media of him brandishing a firearm in a nightclub. He has also clashed with coaches at times regarding his offensive role and usage.

In 327 career games, Morant has averaged 22.4 points and 7.4 assists while shooting 46.6% from the field.

This season, he is averaging 19.5 points and 8.1 assists while shooting career-lows of 41.0% from the field and 23.5% from 3-point range. The Grizzlies are 7-13 this season when Morant plays and 11-12 when he is sidelined.