(Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
The Memphis Grizzlies are playoff bound once again this season, even after all the drama and off-the-court distractions that came with superstar Ja Morant’s antics.
Unfortunately, Memphis will be missing a big piece to the championship puzzle heading into the postseason, with center Steven Adams likely out for the duration.
This is a costly loss for Adams, as he’s been a dominant force inside the paint for the Grizzlies and will be sorely missed during the playoffs.
According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, Adams’ right knee isn’t quite right even after a stem cell injection.
ESPN Sources: Memphis Grizzlies center Steven Adams is likely to miss the postseason with his injured right knee. Adams, who underwent a stem cell injection a month ago, has been out with a PCL sprain since late January. pic.twitter.com/VtMnKhlHFq
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) April 8, 2023
Here are some fan reactions to the news that Adams will likely miss the playoffs:
This stem cell stuff is tricky. I don’t know enough about it, but for some, it works wonders. For others, it doesn’t do much. A very interesting time in sports medicine.
— Benjamin Cure (@BenjaminCureTV) April 8, 2023
grizzlies if JJJ picks up a couple avoidable fouls pic.twitter.com/0MsycFwRCw
— jeff (@retrojeffhoops) April 8, 2023
Damn get well soon Steven, but uhhh lakers pic.twitter.com/gFi7UyPzgP
— Isaiah (@KingBristol3) April 8, 2023
That’s tough news for the Memphis Grizzlies and their fans. Steven Adams has been an important part of their team this season, and his absence in the postseason will undoubtedly be felt. Wishing him a speedy recovery.
— BracketBattle (@BracketBattle_) April 8, 2023
As a result of the significant void left by Adams’ absence in the paint, the Grizzlies will bring in rookie forward Kenneth Lofton Jr., who has had an incredible year in the G League.
To fortify the frontline now, the Grizzlies are signing two-way rookie forward Kenneth Lofton Jr., on a four-year, $7M contract, his agent Mike George of @OneLegacySports tells ESPN. Lofton was the G League’s Rookie of the Year. https://t.co/BvkPxUtbNB
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) April 8, 2023
Replacing Adams is no easy task, as there’s no center in the league like him.
Adams may not be among the elite big men in the game like Giannis Antetokounmpo or Joel Embiid, but his presence is always felt on the basketball floor, especially on the glass.
Adams is one of the best rebounders in the NBA and has taken his game to the next level in that category since joining the Grizzlies last season.
The Pitt product out of New Zealand is averaging 11.5 rebounds this season to go along with 8.6 points per game while shooting 59.7% from the floor.
Lofton may ultimately be a surprisingly solid addition to the Grizzlies, but it remains to be seen if he can replace what Adams gives them.
The post Fans React To Today’s Steven Adam’s Announcement appeared first on The Cold Wire.