While the Grizzlies entered the new season healthy and ready to prove that they are still a West contender, their team has already been hit by an injury. Former Celtics guard Marcus Smart suffered his latest setback, this time a sprained right ankle suffered in Wednesday’s game against the Nets.

Smart rolled Ziaire Williams with his right ankle late in the first quarter, forcing him to come off the play. The Grizzlies said Smart will not return to Wednesday’s game after that. Smart finished the game after six minutes played, providing an assist and a rebound without firing a shot.

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Smart had a tough last season, his first year in Memphis since moving from the Celtics. He played in only 20 games as the Grizzlies were plagued by injuries. Smart also had a difficult start to the season, averaging 7.0 points, 2.5 rebounds and 3.3 assists per game. He’s shooting just 23.5% from the field and 16.7% from three despite it being early in the season.

The Grizzlies entered Wednesday’s game with a 2-2 record and were looking to prove that they are still a strong playoff team. Before last season, they were the No. 2 seed in the West in back-to-back years in the 2022 and 2023 playoffs. However, they had the most success until the second round, when they wanted to take the next step. They posted a 27-55 record last season despite the majority of their contributors suffering some form of injury.

So for a team led by Ja Morant, it’s a season where everything proves itself and the potential exists to bounce back. Smart was expected to play an important role, as the Grizzlies traded him to inject some grit back into their franchise. It’s unclear how serious his injury is, but the Grizzlies are hoping their starter isn’t out too long with ankle issues.