Grizzlies' Ja Morant ruled out for Game 3 with hip injury

The Memphis Grizzlies have struggled in their first-round playoff series against the Oklahoma City Thunder, falling into a 2-0 hole after two blowout losses. Despite improved effort in Game 2, turnovers continued to plague the team, with the Thunder capitalizing for a significant points advantage. Ja Morant, the Grizzlies' star guard, has been candid about the team's need to start games and quarters better and protect the ball, citing these issues as key reasons for their struggles. Morant contributed 23 points and six assists in Game 2 but has not been able to turn the series momentum. In Game 3, Morant suffered an awkward fall and exited the game with an apparent injury, further compounding Memphis' challenges as they attempt to avoid a sweep. The Grizzlies now face an uphill battle to keep their postseason alive.