Only recently returning from a 25-game suspension, the Memphis Grizzlies announced Monday night that their superstar Ja Morant will undergo season-ending surgery.

The two-time All-Star suffered a subluxation of his right shoulder during a team training session according to MRI results. Morant’s season ends playing in just nine games averaging 25.1 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 8.1 assists.

After finishing second in the West last season, Memphis went 6-19 over the course of their first 25 league games without Morant, one of the worst records in the NBA. Since his return, the Grizzlies have already matched their win tally and with Morant playing like his usual self, there was hope that the season could be saved. But after a year filled with headlines both on and off the court, Morant will head back to the sidelines and prepare himself for the start of the 2024-25 season, where he is expected to be fully recovered.

With an already long list of injury woes including the likes of Steven Adams and Brandon Clarke, in a rather underwhelming season, what is left for Memphis to salvage?

Though fans may feel like the season is over, there is still plenty to play for with over half a season still remaining. Still only in the start of January, the Grizzlies are only 4 and a half games back from a spot in the play-in tournament.

Head Coach Taylor Jenkins must get his group together and keep them focused. Memphis has a great combination of experienced veterans such as Derrick Rose and Bismack Biyombo to help keep this group competitive.

With the likes of Jaren Jackson Jr., Desmond Bane, and Xavier Tillman, all of which are 25 years of age or younger, continuing to maximize their potential will be vital this season, especially if the team plans to keep them in the long term.

If things go south down the stretch of the season, the Grizzlies should prepare themselves to play with Morant next season. With a healthy Morant on the court, the Grizzlies have already shown that they are one of the best teams in the league and if they want to be title contenders next season, then the preparation starts now. Taylor Jenkins must figure out who he wants in this team next season and who is out. Plus, the Grizzlies have a pick in the 2024 NBA draft, so maybe we could see another young talent join this team.

The Memphis Grizzlies are only a Morant away from being one of the best in the league so if the team continues to develop around him, why can’t they contend for a championship next year?