Grizzlies’ Ja Morant scores 22 points in win after missing 8 games

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) — Ja Morant scored 22 points and 11 assists in his return to the lineup after missing eight games with hip and pelvic muscle injuries, leading the Memphis Grizzlies to a 123-98 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers on Monday night .

Morant shot 6 of 12 from the field, including 2 of 3 from 3-point range.

Towards the end of the first half, he made a 3-pointer and fired a shot from three-quarters into the goal. But the shot came after the second quarter horn, giving Memphis a 65-54 lead at halftime.

Jaren Jackson Jr. scored 21 points and Santi Aldama finished the game with 13 points and a career-high 17 rebounds.

Morant’s return boosted the tempo of the Grizzlies’ offense, which was among the fastest in the league, although they had limited fast break points.

Morant was injured on a drive to the basket in the second half of the Grizzlies’ 131-114 win over the Los Angeles Lakers on Nov. 6.

Morant, the second overall pick in the 2019 draft, has averaged 20.8 points, 9.3 assists and five rebounds in nine games this season.

Memphis coach Taylor Jenkins said before the game that he would be “minute conscious” with Morant, but added that the player was not subject to any restrictions. The Grizzlies (11-7) play three more home games over the next six days.

“We’ll definitely be smart, but not as restrictive,” Jenkins said.

Memphis hosts Detroit on Wednesday.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.