The NBA is on the brink of major shifts as key players inch closer to returning, promising a shakeup across several teams. With top talent sidelined in recent weeks, some teams have grappled with maintaining form, while others have managed to hold the fort. The potential return of star players like Ja Morant, Dejounte Murray, and Kevin Durant stands to significantly impact the league's landscape.
Ja Morant's Anticipated Return
For the Memphis Grizzlies, the possible return of Ja Morant is a beacon of hope. The dynamic guard has been absent for the last eight games due to a right hip subluxation and pelvic muscle strain. During his absence, the Grizzlies have managed a 5-4 record, highlighting the team’s resilience but also underscoring Morant's critical role in their success. As they stand at 10-7 in the Western Conference, Morant's return could serve as a catalyst for a fresh surge in form. Currently, he is listed as questionable for the upcoming clash against the Portland Trail Blazers, a game that may witness his much-anticipated return.
New Orleans Pelicans Face Challenges
In New Orleans, the Pelicans eagerly await the return of Dejounte Murray and key players like Brandon Ingram. Murray’s troubles began when he broke his left hand during the season opener, leaving the Pelicans scrambling to find form. With a disappointing 4-13 record in their wake, the team hopes that the guard's return will inject much-needed vigor into their roster. Besides Murray, CJ McCollum is also expected back from a strained right adductor and is listed as probable, offering further optimism to the Pelicans. However, they continue to face challenges with Zion Williamson, Herb Jones, and Jose Alvarado still sidelined.
Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal Eye Return
The Phoenix Suns have also felt the absence of their stars, Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal. Durant has been out since November 8 with a strained left calf, while Beal has been sidelined since November 12 with a similar injury. The Suns started the season with an impressive 8-1 record, but without Durant, and especially without both stars, they have struggled significantly, enduring a 1-6 stretch in recent games. Currently, they hold a 9-7 record in the Western Conference.
Ryan Dunn, a forward for the Suns, echoed the optimism surrounding the potential return of their star players, stating, "Bringing that extra firepower back to the team is going to help us a lot." Both Durant and Beal are marked as probable for their upcoming game against the Los Angeles Lakers, a matchup that could mark a turning point for the Suns if the duo graces the court.
Celtics and Pippen Jr.'s Brilliance
Amidst the wave of injury returns, the Boston Celtics have not been thwarted in their ambitions, as exemplified by Kristaps Porzingis's continued strong performance in the season's campaign. His contributions have been a steadying force as the Celtics look to maintain their competitive edge in the league.
Additionally, Scotty Pippen Jr. made headlines with a standout performance, scoring 30 points and delivering 10 assists to lead his team victoriously against the Chicago Bulls. Pippen Jr.'s display of skill and leadership serves as a highlight in the ongoing NBA season, showcasing the potential for rising stars to leave a mark amidst the turbulence of player injuries.
As the NBA season progresses, the reintegration of these pivotal players will be closely watched, with their impacts likely reverberating across their respective conferences. Fans and teams alike will have their fingers crossed, hoping for health and success as these athletes step back onto the court.