It appears as though the dreaded injury bug has bitten the Memphis Grizzlies again and is putting a damper on their recent success and 11-7 record through 18 games.
The Grizzlies are already dealing with injury issues to their big-time free-agent acquisition Chandler Parsons, and now their other big time free agent, floor general and team leader Mike Conley is going to be sidelined for at least six to eight weeks after injuring his back in Monday’s night’s game against the Hornets.
THIS JUST IN: Mike Conley expected to miss 6-8 weeks with back fracture. Conley will not undergo surgery, will be reevaluated in 1 month. pic.twitter.com/NWK9GHlCN9
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) November 29, 2016
This is very disheartening news for a Grizzlies squad that felt as though they were back in the mix to be in the western conference’s top or second tier. Conley has been playing well and with Marc Gasol’s newfound range, Zach Randolph’s effectiveness in a bench role and Vince Carter’s career revival, it seemed as though the Grizzlies were positioned to be in a good spot to rise in the standings.
Conley is averaging a career high 19.2 points per game along with 5.7 assists and 3.6 rebounds.
Conley will be re-evaluated in a month and because of the severity and seriousness of the injury, there is no guarantee Conley will be back on the court in the six to eight week timeline.
Expect Andrew Harrison to get plenty of opportunity at the point guard position and a veteran guard such as Norris Cole is being brought in to help the Grizzlies stay afloat at the position while Conley recovers.
