The Memphis Grizzlies have gotten off to a strong start during the 2022-23 NBA season, but they are going to have to overcome some adversity in the coming weeks. That is because they are going to be without shooting guard Desmond Bane for the next 2-3 weeks because of a Grade 2 sprain of his right big toe.
Bane will be re-evaluated in 2-3 weeks, which means he could be sidelined for at least the next 6-10 games. He suffered the injury on Friday night during the Grizzlies’ victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves. His not being in the lineup was felt right away as Memphis lost their first game without him in the lineup to the Washington Wizards.
It was a listless performance against the Wizards as the Grizzlies scored a season-low 92 points. Point guard Ja Morant was also sidelined from that game, leaving Memphis without their two best players.
Without Bane in the lineup, offense will certainly be tougher to come by. He has blossomed into a star this season, and his first career All-Star nod should be on its way this season. The TCU product is averaging 24.7 points per game on an impressive .465/.451/.912 shooting split.
LATEST NBA INJURY NEWS: Desmond Bane & Memphis Grizzlies Updates
He is also grabbing 4.9 rebounds and handing out 4.8 assists per game, which would be a career-high in all three categories. In addition to the stellar offensive performance, Bane is a stout defender despite having a negative wingspan; he is measured at 6’5” but has a 6’4” wingspan.
The Grizzlies are going to certainly miss that two-way production as Bane will be virtually impossible. It will take a total team effort, but luckily for them, there are some reinforcements on the way.
LATEST NBA INJURY NEWS: Desmond Bane & Memphis Grizzlies Updates
Jaren Jackson Jr., who has been sidelined as he recovers from surgery this offseason on a fracture on his right foot, is on the verge of returning. He is hoping to make his season debut on Tuesday against the New Orleans Pelicans.
It would be a nice boost to the lineup to get Jackson back, even in a limited capacity, to help offset the loss of Bane. Jackson was an All-NBA Defensive Team member and will help shore things up in the Grizzlies’ frontcourt.
